This feels like the appropriate moment to mention that the ONLY activity we had actually made reservations for during our trip up to Northern Washington was canceled because of morning fog. But we pivoted and got to experience Moran State Park on Orcas Island!

It was an early morning to get to the ferry terminal in time to take the ferry to Orcas Island, but it was worth it! We had never been to the San Juan Islands before, but I have a feeling we will be back.

When our kayaking excursion was canceled, we almost immediately got in the car and set off for the other side of the island for a little unexpected hiking at Moran State Park. We drove up to the summit of Mt. Constitution and noted that visibility was a bit shoddy thanks to the fog and air quality. What we really wanted to see though, were the waterfalls. Parking at that trailhead was crummy, so we took the long way and set off from Cascade Lake. I’m not going to sugarcoat it, some of the trail was a bit more strenuous than I was expecting.

But those waterfalls (the pic below is Rustic Falls, the pic at the top is Cascade Falls):

A few notes:

• There’s a new interpretive center under construction at the top of Mt. Constitution! Careful on the road up, it’s a bit hazardous.
• You need a state park pass for Washington (a Discovery Pass) within the park, but there are tons of pay stations if you just want a day pass.
• If you’re taking the ferry back after your visit to Orcas Island, give yourself plenty of time to get back to the terminal. If you get to the terminal early, there are some great little restaurants to grab a bite to eat AND there are bathrooms available.

Happy Hiking, Friends!