2023 Season Experience Update: B.Y.O.B. (bring your own bedding and bath supplies)
We setup cedar platforms with canvas tents on walk-in Moran State Park campsites.
You take it from there.
Orcas Island offers awesome PNW hiking
Moran State Park, home to our glamping sites, offers endless beauty and wonder. That said, we understand that you need to explore and may want to venture away from your glamping site. If that’s the case, get ready to venture outside of Moran State Park for more awesome Orcas Island hiking at Turtleback Mountain Preserve!
Turtleback Mountain preserve is located on the westerly “wing” of Orcas Island. This majestic preserve offers about 8 miles of hiking trails. First off, you’ll choose the trailhead to start your trek up the mountain: North or South. We recommend kicking things off at the South End. Allow about 30-40 minutes to drive to the South End trailhead from your Moran State Park glamping site. You’ll drive through sweet little Eastsound, peaceful Crow Valley, and along the seaside hamlet of Westsound.
After scoring a spot in the trailhead parking lot, follow a narrow trail through the woods and you’ll encounter a wider road with a bit of an incline. Hang in there and keep on climbing! The wider road will eventually give you the option to veer off onto the ‘Lost Oaks’ trail. Though tempting, we’d recommend staying on the road until you hit ‘Morning Ridge.’ As the trail continues to climb, the trees thin out and reveal breathtaking views over rocky outcrops.
Because the ‘Morning Ridge’ route is a bit longer than other options, it offers a more manageable grade. As a result, you’ll also get those motivational ocean, island, and mountain views. Once you’ve reached the first high-spot, enjoy the scenery and be sure to keep an eye out for bald eagles. It seems like these majestic birds fly at eye-level around here!
When you’re ready move along, follow the trail towards ‘Ship Peak.’ The hike to this point journeys through both forest and rock outcrops and also opens up to a yet another breathtaking view. This one treats you to distant mountain ranges, Crow Valley, and over the San Juans.
There’s more to explore
Now begins the journey over to ‘Turtlehead.’ As you might have guessed, this part of the mountain forms the head of the ‘Turtle.’ Head down the trail you took to arrive at ‘Ship Peak’ and follow the signs that lead you to ‘Raven Ridge Trail.’
The Turtlehead trail marker will be on the left next to the ‘Waldron Lookout’ cut-off about two-miles away. Waldron Lookout is a noteworthy spot to sit and rest and have a snack. In addition to a breather, ‘Waldron Lookout’ offers magnificent Salish Sea views. Once rejuvenated, begin your hike out to the Turtlehead. This trail is relatively moderate and flows nicely through a forest of green moss and foliage.
If you’ve got a pal to pick you up, you can finish up your hike at the North Trailhead parking. If you haven’t got a lift, you can double-back to the South End parking lot. Either way, you’re in for some marvelous scenery and one heck of a hike. Most important, don’t worry if this sounds like more mileage than you’re after. It’s important to note that this hike can be split up into multiple smaller loops. Be sure to check the trail map here.
In closing, we sure hope that this trail guide helps make your Orcas Island exploration a success. Most important, don’t forget to stop in Eastsound on your way back to camp for a cool beverage and maybe a bite. Better yet, treat yourself to a nice campfire and a s’more or two with our add-on kits when you’re back at your glamping site.
While we’re pretty well-booked, be sure to check our rates and availability. We’d sure love to get you glamping on Orcas Island this season!
