Located on the eastern side of Orcas Island is Mt. Constitution, the tallest peak in the San Juan Islands archipelago. It stands in Moran State Park, a large recreational and camping park with over 30 miles (48 kilometers) of hiking trails plus lakes and waterfalls. Follow the trails to the summit of the mountain for panoramic views of nearby mountains and islands, to spot abundant wildlife and to cool off at waterfalls and swimming holes.
If you are feeling energetic, put on your hiking boots and follow the trail to the 2,409-feet (734-meter) high summit. After following a shaded forest trail, you’ll cross an open alpine meadow. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as rabbits and squirrels, deer and otters. Listen for the sounds of the hummingbird and woodpecker or see if you can spot eagles and ospreys circling above the treetops.
On the summit, enjoy the panoramic views of Orcas Island and the San Juan Islands archipelago. On a clear day you can see as far as the snow-capped Mount Baker, the Olympic Mountains and Vancouver Island. Rest a while at one of the picnic tables and then climb to the top of the medieval-style watchtower. Visit the Summit Learning Center to find displays on Mt. Constitution’s natural and human history. The center is open from May to September.
Those looking for a less vigorous walk can follow the trails further down the mountain. An easy trail leads around Mountain Lake, where you can stop at various points for a swim. Other trails lead south to Cascade Falls and north to Twin Lakes. In addition to the hiking trails, there is a paved road all the way to the top, so you can also arrange to be driven to the mountain summit and then walk down.
Find a map and descriptions of the trails on the park’s official website, named Friends of Moran.
Mt. Constitution is a 20-minute drive south from Eastsound and a 10-minute drive north from Olga. There is a fee for those entering Moran State Park with a vehicle.
