Published on San Juan Islands Washington Visitors Bureau | Orcas Island | Lopez Island | Friday Harbor | San
Juan Island (https://www.visitsanjuans.com)
Orcas Island Hikes
The Emerald Isle offers big trees, hidden beaches and
panoramic views of the sparkling Salish Sea dotted with
islands
Cascade Lake
One of the easiest and most rewarding hikes on Orcas Island is the 2.9-mile loop around
Cascade Lake. If you start out counterclockwise, you'll pass over a stream where the
landlocked kokanee salmon make their way upstream from Cascade Lake to Moran Creek
hatchery to spawn in the fall.
As you make your way around the lake, stop at the highest point above the lake, where a
twisted but regal fir tree reigns over the water. About halfway around, you'll walk over a
wooden bridge where you can stop for a beautiful view of the lake's lagoon, where locals
swim and stop their rowboats for picnics.
Mountain Lake
There is a paved road all the way up Mount Constitution, so consider parking partway up
for a leisurely and beautiful three-mile stroll around Mountain Lake—you can even jump in
for a cooling swim. Beyond Mountain Lake, trails lead out to Cascade Falls and Twin
Lakes. With over 38 miles of trails, 5,200-acre Moran State Park offers something for
every fitness level.
The basic lake hike trail starts at the Mountain Lake parking lot halfway up Mt.
Constitution, at about 900-feet elevation. If you are facing the lake, you can go either
direction, although I like to walk counter clockwise. The trail starts out, and remains, wide
and soft, padded with duff. It has a gentle slope for most of the 4-mile loop, with some
interesting stops along the way, through forest of Western Red Cedar, Douglas fir,
salmonberries and salal, ferns and an endless array of mosses and flora to photograph
and discover. There’s a weir, or concrete waterfall to cross, and a few felled trees to walk
over or under.
There are several campsites along the lake, so you can wake up to the song of forest
birds and a view of the placid water. The coolest thing about the Mountain Lake Trail is
that it is the perfect length for a leisurely two-hour outing, including time to sit on the lake’s
dock and dangle your feet in the water, or dive into the clear water to cool off on a hot
summer day.
Mount Constitution
If you want the challenge of a steep hike and the reward of breathtaking views, grab your
hiking boots and a packed lunch and head to Mount Constitution in Moran State Park, the
highest point in the San Juan Islands—2,409 feet. It’s not a hike to be rushed, however,
as there is a lot to appreciate on the way up. Hike from the cool shade of old-growth forest
to sunshine and wildflowers in alpine meadows.
From the summit, you’ll have 360-degree views of the San Juan Islands, Vancouver, and
the mainland, bracketed by snow-tipped Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier. Enjoy an added touch
of historical interest in the watchtower, built from hand-cut stone by the Civilian
Conservation Corps in 1936.
Obstruction Pass State Park
Obstruction Pass is a small gem for those seeking the atmosphere of a wilderness
escape. Situated at the far southeastern tip of Orcas, Obstruction Pass offers 80 acres of
parkland to explore plus 10 campsites. The main trails run well under a mile through lush
vegetation and forest.
The easterly trail leads to a 150-yard beach unique in the islands, covered with
interestingly shaped rocks - some triangular—as well as views of Lopez Island, Blakely
Island, and Obstruction Island. The westerly trail ends in a panoramic water view and
great picnic site.
Turtleback Mountain Preserve - Ship Peak Trail
With dramatic views of snow-capped mountains and scattered islands, the Ship Peak Trail
is a favorite local loop trail. Open grassy hillsides and Garry oaks stretch out along a 2.9
trail ascending 860 feet. The South Trail crosses a stream, winding up to wildflowercovered slopes in springtime.
After about 1.2 miles you’ll reach the West Overlook, a perfect place to rest and savor a
spectacular view from the comfort of a bench. Continue about .3 miles to the intersection
with the Lost Oak Trail on the open peak, turn right on a short spur to the Ship Peak
Overlook. Linger here to drink in the view and take panoramic photographs before
returning to the Lost Oak trail by retracing your steps and turning right at the junction.
Descend first through mature oak and Douglas fir forest, then denser, darker woods to the
old road where you started.
One can hike all day in the San Juan County Land Bank’s 1,718-acre preserve. The Ship
Peak trail connects with the rest of the Preserve’s trail system, however, step-for-step no
other trail rivals its spectacular sweeping views or variety of landscape. Download a map
and info: www.sjclandbank.org.
Featured Experience
Beautiful Islands, Leave-No-Trace Style
How a bucket list hike opened my eyes to the importance of preserving the San Juan
Islands for future generations
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Featured Experience
Best Hikes in the San Juan Islands
Hiking trails on Orcas, Lopez and San Juan Islands take you past historic lighthouses,
through serene cedar forests, and along grassy prairies. Whether you want a quiet walk
on the beach or a challenging hill climb, you'll find some of the best hiking in Washington
State in the San Juan Islands.
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Source URL: https://www.visitsanjuans.com/what-to-do/experiences/orcas-island-hikes