U-Pick Lavender Experience on Bainbridge Island

A Fresh Take on Bainbridge Island’s Lavender Farm Experience

If you’re craving a peaceful, fragrant escape just a short ferry ride from Seattle, the U-Pick Lavender Experience at Bluetree Farm and Forest offers a charming way to connect with nature. For around $44 per person, you get roughly 90 minutes of hands-on fun—including harvesting your own lavender, walking through native forest trails, and enjoying farm-fresh treats. The experience is designed to be interactive and relaxed, making it a perfect outing whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or even family.

One of the highlights we love is the personal touch of learning how to snip and process lavender. It’s not just about walking through pretty fields; it’s about gaining new skills and taking home a fragrant bundle you made yourself. The native forest walk is another special feature, providing a quiet, scenic stroll that’s both educational and restorative. Plus, the chance to sip refreshing lavender lemonade on the porch while browsing the farm stand adds a lovely, laid-back vibe.

A small consideration is the limited bloom season—mid-June through late July—meaning timing is key if you want to see the fields at their peak. Also, while the property is wheelchair accessible for the field viewing, the forest trail isn’t fully accessible, so travelers with mobility needs should plan accordingly. This tour suits anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, gardening, or authentic farm experiences, especially those eager to bring home a bouquet or simply relax amid beautiful scenery.

Key Points

• Hands-on lavender harvesting enhances the experience beyond just sightseeing.
• Native forest walks offer educational and peaceful moments.
• All tools and a lavender sample are included, making it easy and convenient.
• The farm stand provides unique lavender products and local treats.
• Limited bloom season means booking early is essential.
• Suitable for most travelers, but access to the trails is limited for those with mobility concerns.

Exploring the U-Pick Lavender Experience in Depth

Location and Setting: A Cozy Farm on Bainbridge Island

The experience is based at a small, welcoming farm on Bainbridge Island—reachable by a scenic ferry from Seattle. The farm offers a lovely mix of cultivated lavender fields and native forest trails, providing a genuine farm atmosphere that’s both calming and picturesque. Starting at 14832 WA-305, the farm is easy to find, with free parking available, which adds convenience for visitors renting cars or arriving by shuttle.

What to Expect: A Well-Rounded, Engaging Tour

Your visit begins with an introduction from the farmers, who will share the history of the land, details about the varieties of lavender, and how they grow and process it. This segment lasts about 30 minutes and sets the tone for a learning and relaxing experience.

Next, you’ll be handed your own tools—a small pair of scissors and a de-budding tool—and encouraged to snip your own lavender bundle at your leisure. This part of the tour emphasizes craftsmanship and personal achievement, with plenty of time to wander through the rows, choose your favorite stems, and develop your snipping technique.

While harvesting, you’ll notice that the lavender fields are stunning—especially mid-summer when they are in full bloom. We loved the way the farmers take care to cultivate the different varieties of lavender, offering a visual and aromatic treat that makes the effort even more worthwhile.

Native Forest Walk: A Peaceful Stroll

After your harvesting adventure, you’ll be invited to explore the native forest trail, which takes about 45 minutes. This self-guided walk lets you enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest—tall trees, native plants, and bird song—creating a peaceful counterpoint to the bustling city life. The written guide provided helps educate about local flora, and it’s a great way to slow down and appreciate the environment.

Keep in mind that the forest trail isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, but the farm has made accommodations for viewing the fields. We found this trail to be particularly calming and a perfect way to digest the sensory overload of lavender scents.

Farm Stand and Refreshments: Tasting the Farm’s Bounty

The tour wraps up on the porch with a complimentary lavender lemonade, which balances sweetness and herbal freshness—just what you need after a few hours outdoors. You’ll then have time to browse the Farm Stand, where you’ll find hand-made lavender products—think soaps, oils, and dried bundles—as well as local farm-fresh goods.

The value here is undeniable: you’re not just taking home a bouquet but also a collection of thoughtfully crafted souvenirs that echo the farm’s natural, organic vibe. Plus, the opportunity to relax and chat with the farmers or other visitors adds a convivial touch.

Is This Experience Worth It?

The $44 price includes everything: tools, samples, access to the fields and forest, and the lemonade. When you consider the personal effort of harvesting your own bouquet, the chance to learn about lavender, and the peaceful environment, the price feels very reasonable. It’s a fun, authentic activity that’s especially suited for those who love outdoor, hands-on experiences and appreciate the charm of working with natural materials.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, garden enthusiasts, and families looking for a relaxed outdoor activity. It’s perfect if you want to escape the city and enjoy a slower pace while learning about local agriculture. Photographers and social media fans will also appreciate the picturesque setting for unforgettable photos.

Final Thoughts: An Authentic, Relaxing Lavender Outing

We really appreciate how this tour offers a genuine farm experience—not just another sightseeing stop but a chance to connect with the land and learn a new skill. The scenic views, fragrant fields, and friendly guides make it a memorable outing that feels both special and down-to-earth.

The native forest walk adds a contemplative element that balances the sensory overload of the lavender fields, making this a well-rounded experience. The farm stand provides a nice opportunity to take home a piece of the farm’s natural beauty, whether as a gift or personal keepsake.

While the timing is crucial to catch the lavender at its best, booking early secures your spot during peak bloom. If you’re looking for a peaceful, engaging farm adventure that emphasizes authenticity and hands-on fun, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit the lavender fields?
The tour runs from mid-June through late July, which is when the lavender is typically in full bloom. Booking early is recommended to catch the fields at their peak.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, including harvesting, forest walk, and farm stand visit.

Is the farm accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the property is wheelchair accessible for viewing the fields. However, the forest trail isn’t fully accessible, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

Are tools provided?
Yes, all tools needed for cutting lavender are included in your ticket, along with a sample of lavender lemonade.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and the experience is suitable for traveling with pets.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes for walking in the fields and forest, and perhaps a camera for capturing the views. Bring a picnic if you wish to extend your visit on the farm grounds.

Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at the farm.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours ahead are not refundable, but weather cancellations will be rescheduled or refunded.

In sum, the U-Pick Lavender Experience at Bluetree Farm and Forest offers a genuine taste of rural Washington’s beauty, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on fun, relaxation, and learning. It’s especially perfect for those who want more than just a quick photo stop — instead, you’re invited to contribute, create, and unwind in a setting that’s both fragrant and welcoming.