Hawley Cove Park offers stunning views of Eagle Harbor and Mt. Rainier, but access to its shoreline, marsh, and trails was limited . 

The Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails Foundation helped solve this challenge by supporting the construction of 600 feet of elevated boardwalks, improving access while protecting the park’s fragile ecosystem.  

The project was made possible through a partnership with the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District, which secured state grant funding, and with support from the Rotary Club of Bainbridge Island. 

To build the boardwalks without disturbing the marsh, the Foundation funded purchase of a specialized anchor-auger machine for the Park District. This innovative tool allowed crews to install the boardwalks with minimal environmental impact – a win for both accessibility and conservation. 

Foundation funding added viewing platforms and benches along the new boardwalk, inviting visitors to pause and enjoy the birdsong and natural beauty of the shoreline marsh. 

Together, these improvements have transformed Hawley Cove Park into a more welcoming and sustainable space.  

The boardwalks connect the Wing Point and Hawley neighborhoods, creating a safe, non-motorized trail link and year-round access to the park’s 600 feet of sandy shoreline, expansive tide flats, and unmatched views of the ferry gliding to and from Eagle Harbor against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier. 

HAWLEY COVE BOARDWALKS
Project Partner: Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District
Completed: 2017