Whidbey Institute offers peaceful place for walks, retreats

After visiting Earth Sanctuary at Freeland, if you'd like a spiritual walk in the woods, head to the Whidbey Institute at Chinook, near the south end of the island.

This retreat center offers workshops plus overnight accommodations to many ecological and spiritual groups, but its several miles of woodland trails are open to the public. Walkers can pause at the Sanctuary, a lovingly crafted wooden building designed for meditation, or stroll the nearby outdoor labyrinth, outlined in small stones in a clearing. (Check at the main office before visiting the Sanctuary since it may be in use, or check signs on the Sanctuary door.)

The Whidbey Institute's 100 acres include what was a Finnish homesteader's farm in the early 1900s. A few buildings, including the original farmhouse, are scattered through the property but mostly it's forest and meadow.

The easygoing trails start at what's called the lower parking lot, about a half-mile along the dirt road that leads from Campbell Road to the Whidbey Institute's main office. Maps are available at the trailhead and online.

More information: 360-341-1884 or www.whidbeyinstitute.org.