Penobscot Bridge Observatory Views

The views were great. To the north was (the other) Fort Knox and Bucksport.

The Penobscot River to the northwest,

and part of Verona Island to the south. These photos are through thick glass.

We were up 420 feet in a glass enclosed observation deck. The views were definitely worth the stop.

We would cross the river and head northeast to Acadia National Park.

Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, Maine

The bridge over the Penobscot River opened in 2006 and is over 2,100 feet long. It has the only bridge observatory in the U.S. It offers a 360 degree view from 420 feet in the air. Yes, we went up! Thank goodness there was an elevator.

Deception Pass boat tour, part 3

The Deception Pass Bridge was completed in the summer of 1935.

The smaller span is 511 feet long, connecting Pass Island with Fidalgo Island. The tidal flow through Canoe Pass is less dangerous than the larger Deception Pass but it is a blind corner and is not used by power boats. It received its name from Indians using it in their canoes.

The larger span is 921 feet long, connecting Pass Island and Whidbey Island. Deception Pass is known for its turbulent tidal flow. During peak tidal flow, treacherous whirlpools can be seen from the bridge. 

Deception Pass boat tour, part 1

I recently went on the hour long Deception Pass Tours boat trip. Deception Pass State Park is the most visited state park in Washington. Some three million vehicles go over the bridge each year, traveling between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands.

It is also a popular spot for fishing. As we approached the bridge, we could see fishing boats in "the hole," a deep water area where salmon (hopefully) congregate. Our tour guide said the every-other-year run of humpies would be starting soon.

The tour begins at Cornet Bay at the north end of Whidbey Island. More photos tomorrow.

LaConner red bridge

The LaConner "red bridge."