San Juan Island Tour

The Tour

Ride the Washington State Ferries to Friday Harbor, the biggest town on the islands. From the ferry dock, cycle out to the American Camp at Cattle Point, one of the two National Historic Parks on the island. It tells the story of the "Pig War" between American and British settlers and soldiers. (Only one shot was fired, and it killed a pig.)

Then cross the island to Lime Kiln State Park, also known as Whale Watch Park, for very good reason. Stop and look for orcas -- a/k/a killer whales!

Continue on the island loop along a series of rolling hills to the English Camp, the other historical park.

Follow that with a visit to the sparkling marina of Roche Harbor. The tiny town dates from 1886, presided over by the historic Haro Hotel and a marina full of swanky yachts.

Stop and tour the meadows and art of the San Juan Island Sculpture Park before a mellow, 7-mile return through farmland to Friday Harbor, where you can finish the day with a fresh-caught seafood dinner.

Notes

1. A colorful diversion awaits on Wold Road at 15.5 miles at Pelindaba Lavender Farm. Long, purple rows of lavender fill the field in season, and refreshing lavender lemonade awaits in their shop.
2. "Human-powered" campsites (aka hiker-biker and in this case kayaker campsites) at San Juan County Park at 21.8 miles are only $10 and the park has "killer" views.
3. A short (.2 mile) gravel road at 26.4 miles takes you down to English Camp through the woods - worth a visit.
4. Grab a cold drink at the Company Store on the pier in Roche Harbor and head across the parking lot to the two bocce courts for a quick game.

Ferry Logistics

• Washington State Ferries schedule.
• Park your car at the Anacortes ferry dock (on the mainland) and bike on/off the ferry. It's cheaper, and no reservations needed.
• Walk on with your bike and luggage to Friday Harbor, and walk off the ferry to nearby lodging.
• Each day hop a ferry to bike a different island - interisland ferries are free!