FORT EBEY STATE PARK THE FOREST RETURNS

Fort Ebey was built in 1942 as part of the United States' Pacific defense. In 1968, the Army donated the site to the state, and it was opened as a state park in 1981 — one of many military properties in the Puget Sound area that have been converted to recreational use. The park is located in an area of very rugged terrain. The rolling topography is punctuated by kettleholes, depressions formed by the receding Vashon Glacier. As the glacier retreated it dropped large chunks of ice, which were engulfed in rocky debris. When the ice chunks melted, the kettleholes were left behind. Lake Pondilla formed in one of the park's kettleholes. The pioneers who found tall trees and lush undergrowth here believed that the soils that grew them would be excellent for farming. This entire area was logged. In fact the rough terrain and poor soils made it difficult and unprofitable to farm. The forest was allowed to grow back, and now supports many species of native plants, birds, and other wildlife. Although they were a disappointment to farmers, the Reserve's woodlands, with their wild rhododendrons, have become a valuable natural resource. WHILE YOU ARE HERE . . . Walk to Lake Pondilla. Its steep sides and fresh water distinguish it from the brackish lakes and lagoons in other parts of the Reserve, which were formed as a result of coastal processes. Visit the beach. You can walk along the beach as far as Fort Casey (about 8 miles); check tides before departing! High tides can trap you between the water and the bluff. Enjoy the mountain bike trails in the kettles area. Explore the abandoned bunker and gun emplacement. As at Fort Casey, you will need a flashlight. Facilities include a picnic area, campground, bicycle campground, restrooms, trails. Return to Coupeville along Hwy. 20. You will pass through the woodlands; the uneven topography is easily seen from the highway. Mountain bikers may return to Coupeville via trail from the park. This land was logged between 80 and 150 years ago — the tall trees you see are actually second and third growth forest!