We’ll all miss the thrill of massive fireworks, but we can still celebrate the holiday basking in the sunshine and practicing safe social distancing in the great outdoors. With the help of Craig Romano’s, Urban Trails: Kitsap, we’ve put together a list of places in the woods or on the water to explore on over the holiday weekend or anytime.

Because Kitsap Peninsula trails start at a lower elevation, routes are accessible year-round and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Nearly all are both family and pet friendly and are less crowded than parks and trails in urban areas making it easy to maintain safe-social distance while enjoy family outings. You can find Craig’s guide book online and in-store at Liberty Bay Books in Poulsbo, Ballast Book Company in Bremerton, Eagle Harbor Book Co. on Bainbridge Island, Barnes & Noble in Silverdale, and online at Mountaineer Books.

Take A Ride on the 371 Mile Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails – Another great way to maintain safe social distancing is to take a ride with family or friends on the  Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails. You’ll find dozens of public accessible places around the Kitsap Peninsula to launch your kayak, SUP or other watercraft. The KPNWT is a great place to safely explore the region’s natural environment, view wildlife and enjoy cool breezes. You can find public accessible launch sites locations using the interactive map on the KPNWT website. If you’re want to rent a kayak or SUP, sign-up online at Olympic Outdoor Center for pick up at their rental locations in Poulsbo, Old Town Silverdale, or Port Gamble.

Below are just a few descriptions of trails listed in Craig’s guide book ready for you and your family to explore on the Kitsap Peninsula during the summer, fall and all year round.  Visit the VKP website to find more Kitsap Peninsula Public Parks & Trails, Outdoor Recreation activities. And after working up an appetite and thirst, visit our new KitsapBites.com website to find places to Eat & Drink.

With so many amazing hikes in the Kitsap Peninsula region, you’ll want to spend at least a couple of days exploring. Go to VisitKitsap.com for lodging options and even more to do on the Natural Side of Puget Sound.  Stay safe!