A long time ago in a galaxy not so far, far away....

...at a place called Whidbey Island, there is a national historical reserve. And at this reserve is a hike called Ebey's Landing, where husband (who was then just relegated to boyfriend status) at the highest point of the trail, asked me to be his wife. I had no choice. It was either a yes, or a push off the cliff.

Fast forward to 5+ years later, I have still managed to avoid being pushed off of a cliff (thanks husband!) and today we decided to visit this memorable hike with family!

The parking lot is almost always full on weekends but there is plenty of room along the road.

The beginning of the trail is a very gradual, grassy trail next to wide open spaces of farm lands.

The ascent eventually peaks out to an overlook of farmlands on one side and the ocean on the other.

You bet I have a selfie stick! It doubles as a billy club.

The farmlands eventually disappear and are replaced with forests.

The descent down consists of two ways: long gradual switchbacks that lead to the beach, or you can be rebels like us and take the steep and sandy way down. It goes much faster...

...but 10 times out of 10 you'll have to empty the sand out of your shoes.

Ebey's Landing will always be a special place for us!