Sweeping views captivate day hikers on this jewel of a trail on Orcas Island.

by Contributor

In Short
The park, with more than 30 miles of trails, combines the tranquil beauty of San Juan Island shorelines with several lakes and sweeping views from the top of Mount Constitution. One of the best routes is a path from Mountain Lake up to Mount Constitution's stone observation tower. Start at the Mountain Lake Trail, which climbs above Mountain Lake to Twin Lakes (1.5 miles). The route back is mostly downhill with many switchbacks.

05/30/05

winter swans - summer brides

by eastlight

annual migrations mark the seasons on orcas island. the wintering swans on cascade lake are rarely seen by visitors because the swans are "off season" visitors. the winters are mild in the san juan islands and more visitors are discovering the treasures missed by the summer crowds like the seasonal waterfalls in moran state park, a lively holiday arts scene and deep discounts at the inns. if you travel to orcas island in the summer be prepared for the migration of summer brides and large wedding parties cloging the ferry system.

• Pros: natural splendor, wildlife, arts
• Cons: summer crowds, park user fees, cost of ferry

08/05/02

orcas has more than hiking

by tessaliford

moran state park is beautiful and offers plenty of fishing and camping as well as hiking. the best time to go to orcas is in april, may, or the fall. during the summer the ferry line to get off the island can have you waiting for six hours or more! the campground offers coin operated showers, and the hike around the lake is stunning! the local wildlife is relatively tame and we took many up-close photos. you self-pay at the station for as little or as long as you wish. we drove into town a few times for shopping and fantastic meals with views of the sound. orcas island is a fantastic choice for getting away from it all. i have spent alot of time there with my husband and it is always a joy.

• Pros: beautiful, inexpensive, quiet
• Cons: ferry lines toandfro

05/26/02

10th Century style Stone Lookout Tower

by muddyrivers

If you hike Mt Constitution without reading a bit of it's history, you will just get a memorable view. Yes there's a road for the tourists, but they miss some of the most beautiful untouched old growth and moss covered beauty anywhere. At Rosario resort, there is a free historical talk and organ concert, in which the history of Robert Moran and this park is playfully told. Call the resort for times. Also, if you prefer being away from the maddening crowd, I should tell you that at least 1/2 of Moran's 30 miles of trails are virtually deserted, even in prime time. Hint: come on a sunny off season weekend!

• Pros: Free, Spectacular, Historical
• Cons: Hard to get to, Mt Top crowded prime