The bridge was built as a Civilian Conservation Corps project during the Great Depression.
The two spans have a combined length of 1,486 feet.
The bridge was engineered to withstand the extreme wind speeds channeled through the narrow gap.
Pass Island, the small landmass at the center of the bridge, provides a midpoint anchor for the two arches.
The water below is notorious for 'whirlpools' caused by the rapid exchange of water between the Skagit Bay and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
It replaced a slow ferry service that was frequently interrupted by powerful tidal currents.
The concrete for the original construction was mixed on-site using local aggregates.
Deception Pass Bridge connects Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island in Washington State, spanning the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. Constructed between 1934 and 1935, the structure consists of two separate steel arches that meet at Pass Island. The bridge stands 180 feet above the water at high tide, where tidal currents can reach speeds of up to 8 knots. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a vital component of the Washington State Highway 20 corridor. The narrow, deep passage below was named 'Deception' by Captain George Vancouver in 1792 due to the treacherous nature of the tides which he initially mistook for a smaller inlet. Pedestrian walkways are available on both sides of the bridge, providing direct views of the swirling water below. The surrounding area comprises Deception Pass State Park, the most visited state park in Washington.
The elevated viewpoint on the north end of the bridge overlooking the span and the Rosario Head area.
Walk onto the bridge from the designated parking area on the north side to avoid crossing high-speed traffic.
Bring wind-resistant layers, as the venturi effect often makes the bridge deck significantly windier than the surrounding woods.
Use the trail under the bridge on the north side to view the steel structural supports from below.
Do not attempt to park on the road shoulders of the bridge approach, as these areas are strictly enforced and dangerous.
Maintain awareness of passing vehicles on the narrow deck; do not lean over or climb on railings.
