Turtleback Mountain Preserve, Eastsound

National GeographicOct 13

When Visiting the San Juan Islands, Don't Sleep on Orcas

Home to Mount Constitution, the highest point in the archipelago, it is a paradise for hikers, bikers, kayakers, and whale watchers—and anyone who loves slow-paced time spent outdoors.

popular hiking area with eight miles of trails

20 things in this story

Mount ConstitutionSighthighest point in the archipelago, paradise for outdoor activities
Orcas IslandNeighborhoodlargest of the San Juan Islands by land mass
Moran State ParkNature reservemore than 40 miles of trails, ascends Mount Constitution
Mount Constitution Observation TowerSighthistoric tower with 360-degree views
Obstruction Pass State ParkTrailshort hike leads to a public beach
Turtleback Mountain PreserveTrailpopular hiking area with eight miles of trails
Wildlife CyclesPlacerents bikes, including e-bikes, in Eastsound
Cascade LakeSightkayak or paddleboard around the lake
Sugar ShackRestaurantoffers delicious ice cream cones
Forest Ceramic Co.Placeshowcase for porcelain wares handcrafted on the island
Orcas Island PotteryPlaceoldest pottery studio in the Pacific Northwest
Orcas ArtworksPlaceartist co-op near Moran State Park
HoulmeRestaurantwood-fired sourdough-crust pizzas and small plates
MatiaRestauranthyperseasonal six- or ten-course tasting menu
Brown Bear BakingBakerycroissant or pastry, often has a line
Orcas Island Car RentalPlacecar rental company on the island
Elsewhere
San Juan IslandNeighborhoodFriday Harbor, United Statesmost populous of the islands
Shearwater Kayak ToursPlaceDeer Harbor, United Statesguided tours departing from Deer Harbor
Outer Island ExcursionsPlaceFriday Harbor, United Stateswhale watching tours, offers free return trip if no whale seen
Kenmore AirPlaceSeattle, United Statesseaplane excursion from Seattle to Orcas

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Turtleback Mountain Preserve

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When Visiting the San Juan Islands, Don't Sleep on Orcas