Did you know that there is an historic rock-bench amphitheater near the hilltop adjacent to Cap Sante Marina in Anacortes, Washington?
A trail leads from the northeast end of the marina through a lovely forest to the hilltop overlooking Anacortes and beyond. The views are stunning, looking both west and east over the waterways and waterfronts of the region. The trail has been rerouted for an easier climb to the top and a newly constructed viewpoint platform takes in the views to the east.
It is the somewhat hidden trail adjacent to the new platform that most folks miss finding, a favorite gem known to locals. The trail north of the platform leads along the ridge of the forested hillside, where hikers come upon a clearing and an impressive rock amphitheater from the 1930s and 40s. Local volunteers have maintained the trail and removed knee-high weeds over the rock benches throughout the years to preserve this special piece of history.
The amphitheater known as the Marine Stadium was built in 1938 and held an audience of hundreds of people who gathered to watch water sports, acrobatic skiers, and hydroplane races. In 1940, this annual “Mariners’ Pageant” festival pulled in a crowd of roughly 20,000 people. It is believed that this event inspired the start of Seattle’s Seafair. The crowd that gathered at the rock stadium in Anacortes watched various types of vessels parade by, watched the hydro races, and watched in awe as divers performed off a dive platform, and skiers flew off a waterski jump. The annual event, including a Grand Parade down Commercial Avenue prior to the water events, came to a halt during WWII. The event came back for three years between 1947-1949 and once again in 1957.
Today, the Marine Stadium benches stand silent and empty, it’s now a peaceful, beautiful spot to enjoy the views, relax, and feel a sense of calm over the past and a hopeful assurance of joy for the future. Next time you moor your boat at Cap Sante Marina, don’t miss taking this nostalgic hike to the historic Marine Stadium. You will find a map of the area in the Waggoner Cruising Guide.
Header Photo: EJ Harris
Stone Bench Photo: Finn Wendt
Historic Photo: Anacortes Museum
