Mount Constitution is the highest point within the San Juan Islands and is a popular hiking spot on Orcas Island. Located in the heart of Moran State Park’s extensive network of hiking trails, the Mt Constitution hike is challenging with rewarding panoramic views at the summit. Moran State Park is home to a multitude of well maintained hiking trails covering the span of over 30 miles with difficulty levels ranging from easy to challenging.
Orcas Island offers visitors an array of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, kayaking, orca whale watching and shopping in Eastsound. This guide to hiking Mount Constitution on Orcas Island includes everything you need to know before you go!
Table of Contents show 1 Quick Facts About the Mount Constitution Hike 2 Where is the Mount Constitution Hike Located? 3 Where is the Mt Constitution Orcas Island Trailhead? 4 Can You Drive to the Top of Mount Constitution? 5 What Can You do at Mount Constitution Washington? 6 Can you Hike Mount Constitution with Kids? 7 Recreation Passes and Permits to Hike in Washington State 8 When to Go Hiking at Mount Constitution 9 How to Get to Orcas Island
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The 6.7 mile loop trail is surrounded by nature and a thick wooded forest. The trail is all natural with the exception of a few wooden bridges or paths so be sure to watch your step for exposed roots or muddy areas.
Where is the Mt Constitution Orcas Island Trailhead?
There are a few different trails that will lead to the summit of Mount Constitution. If you want to do the full trail loop with a distance of 6.7 miles roundtrip you can park at Mountain Lake and begin the trek from the picnic area.
From the Mt Constitution trail head you will begin your ascend up the mountain along a moderately wide natural path. Eventually converging with the Little Summit trail, you will complete the final 1.9 miles to the summit. Continue your climb uphill along the wooded terrain until you reach the top of Mount Constitution.
Can You Drive to the Top of Mount Constitution?
Yes, you can drive all the way up to the top of Mount Constitution in Moran State Park. At the top there will be a parking area and restrooms. The road leading up to the summit of Mt Constitution is open year round with the exception of inclement weather such as heavy snowfall.
What Can You do at Mount Constitution Washington?
The real highlight of hiking or driving to the summit of Mount Constitution is to see the incredible 360° views over the San Juan Archipelago and surrounding mountains.
There is a passenger lounge area upstairs on the Orcas Island ferry with a cafe, restrooms and an outdoor deck to take in the views. There are also large puzzles scattered around on various tables for passengers to complete during the 1.5 hour journey to Orcas Island.
WHAT CAMERA GEAR DO I USE?
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- Main Camera: Sony A7III
- Wide angle lens: Sony G Master 16-35mm f/2.8
- Zoom lens: Sony 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3
- Prime lens: Sony 85mm f/1.8
- Secondary Camera: Canon 6D Mark II
- Canon wide angle lens: Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L
- Canon lens: Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L
- Underwater camera: Leica X-U
- Camera with gimbal: DJI Osmo Pocket & Underwater Housing
- Drone: DJI Mavic Pro 2
- Camera Bag: Polar Pro Drone Trekker
- External Hard Drive: LaCie 2 TB rugged mini external hard drive