Lime Kiln State Park is also referred to a Whale Watch Park for good reason as it is one of the best places to view whales from shore . The easy 1 1 / 4 mile hike includes an up close view of the famous Lime Kiln Lighthouse .
Lime Kiln State Park If you find yourself on San Juan Island
4with a desire to spot an Orca , the short hike on Lime Kiln State Park is a must stop . This is generally recognized as one of the best land-based whale watching locations in the world . While most folks visit for the whales , the park ’ s namesake — a wood-fired kiln located at its northern edge — shouldn ’ t be overlooked .
The trail , totaling 1¼ miles , begins at the park ’ s lower parking lot . Follow the signs to the lighthouse for a chance to see orcas at play . The trail leads you through large grassy meadows interspersed with evergreens and madrona trees . It takes you over rocky bluffs , offering glimpses of the sandy shoreline below . Ultimately , it brings you to the lighthouse , which sits atop Lime Kiln Point , a rocky outcropping overlooking Dead Man ’ s Bay on San Juan Island . Established in 1919 , the lighthouse is still in operation guiding ships through Haro Strait . Spend some time with a good pair of binoculars looking for whales . And , don ’ t be surprised when the whales pass close to shore . Eventually you ’ ll want to follow the trail north to the kiln . A set of steep stairs leads to the kiln ’ s base , offering you a closer look .
The park is open from 8 am to dusk . For additional information , visit the park ’ s interpretive center located by the parking lot .
Difficulty JJ
Views JJJJ Peak Season June and July Distance 1¼ miles Time 1 hour
Trailhead Location From the Friday Harbor ferry terminal drive through town on Spring Street , which eventually turns into San Juan Valley Road . Turn left on Douglas Road , then turn right on Bailer Hill Road . As you approach the water it becomes the West Side Road . Look for Lime Kiln State Park on your left . Trail Advice During the height of whale season ( June and July ) you ’ ll want to bring a good pair of binoculars to spot whales . Also , you will need a state park parking pass , available at the trailhead .
Young Hill Young Hill ’ s 650-foot crest is English Camp ’ s
5crown jewel . It offers a grand view of Haro Straight and the placid waters surrounding Bell Point .
The two-mile roundtrip hike begins at the large English Camp parking area . Take the gentle climb east through a Doug-fir and madrona forest . After the switchback , you ’ ll emerge at the edge of a grassy ledge . There , Victoria and the Gulf Islands will spill out before you . It is recommended you explore English Camp to learn about its history , why it was created , and its historical role in the relationship between England and the United States . Here , you ’ ll also be treated to some of the island ’ s most incredible views .
The trial is open from dawn to 11 pm . For additional information and a trail map , visit the English Camp Visitor Center during the summer months .
Difficulty JJJ
Views JJJ Peak Season May through Sept . Distance 2 miles Time 1 hour
Trailhead Location From the Friday Harbor ferry terminal follow Spring Street through town and turn right onto Blair Avenue . Continue until you reach the stop sign at Guard Street , where you ’ ll turn left . Drive until you reach the stop sign . Turn right onto Tucker Avenue . At the Y intersection , veer left onto Roche Harbor Road . Continue for 7½ miles to an intersection , where you turn left ( south ) onto West Valley Road . Turn right onto the dirt road for English Camp . The trailhead and parking area is ahead . Trail Advice Take the short side trail to the English Camp ’ s small cemetery where you ’ ll find weathered headstones memorializing casualties from the Pig War , none of which were casualties of the war . ( One such headstone includes a man who was accidentally shot by his brother .) kenmoreair . com
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