Walking the Beach to Bellingham

In this unique memoir, noted writer, environmental activist, and Pacific Northwest native Harvey Manning describes a memorable walk along the shoreline from Seattle to Bellingham — a 150-mile trek on which Manning covered nearly 3,000 foot-miles over a two-year period of walking routes in the lowlands and foothills of the Puget Basin.

Harvey Manning is the author of many Northwest trail guides, but this is no trail guide. It is a beautifully written tale of "low adventure," a personal account of Manning's experiences and thoughts during his long walk, mingled with memories of particular beaches over many decades and reflections on the area's natural history.

First published in 1986, Walking the Beach to Bellingham contains a message sure to resonate with readers today. Manning's local wanderings underscore his strong belief in staying put and exploring one's home place. "Generally, people should stay home," he writes. "Forget gaining a little knowledge about a lot and strive to learn a lot about a little."

Hikers who use and love Manning's popular trail guides will welcome this new edition of Walking the Beach to Bellingham, as will environmentalists, serious walkers, readers of nature writing, and anyone who feels at home on the shores of Puget Sound.

Preface to new edition:
Spider in Flight 2002

Introduction to original edition:
Traveling with Spiders

Part One:
Bainbridge Island to Everett

Part Two:
Snohomish River to Stillaguamish River

Part Three:
The Northern Isles

Part Four:
Crossing the Delta

Part Five:
Blanchard to Bellingham

"This is simply one of my favorite books of all time. Harvey Manning, a devilishly sainted campaigner for the land and a great curmudgeonly wit, makes the best companion you could want for this odd and wondrous walk, this true Thoreauvian saunter. Between all the kipper snacks, high tides, and hellberries, Walking the Beach to Bellingham strides with a fine literary reach, snapping and singing with wonder and whim."

"Harvey Manning is a life-long outdoorsman whose feelings for the natural world and passion for its preservation have been deeply imprinted upon the American consciousness."