Mount Constitution

Moran State Park has some of the most spectacular mountain biking trails in Western Washington. The 5000 acre park has several lakes, multiple campgrounds, and the highest peak in the San Juan Islands, the 2400 foot high Mount Constitution.

How to Find It

Orcas Island Ferry from Anacortes. Proceed to Moran State Park. Most people camp overnight, so park there. If not camping park at Cascade Lake day use area (Discover Pass required).

Ferries require reservations year round. Use the WA state ferries website to make your reservation - ensure you do this at least a week ahead of time. Over-height vehicles (if you have bikes on your roof) will be hit with surcharges, as will vehicles with trailers.

http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/

Typical Conditions

Orcas Island tends to be much drier than most of Western Washington and makes one of the best winter riding areas in our region. Bring plenty of layers as the elevation and marine environment can make for chilly temperatures, even on warmer days.

Local Points of Interest

Eastsound is the largest town on Orcas Island with full amenities and services, and is only a few minutes away. There are plenty of places to stay, including high-end resorts such as Rosario, and plenty of smaller hotels and vacation rentals.

Turn by Turn

GPS track - Mountain Lake Campground to Summit and Back

There are multiple ways to put together a great ride in Moran State Park that range from a kid-friendly ride to a grinding ride that only experts will enjoy.

The "classic spiral route" is the most popular, and includes big climbs, stunning views, technical sections and long flowy descents. You will climb a total of approximately 2200 accumulated feet, and the ride usually takes 3 to 4 hours, though strong climbers can do it in as little as 2 hours. Trails are generally well marked.

• Park at the Mountain Lake parking area.
• Pedal out to the Mount Constitution Rd and begin climbing up the pavement.
• When you reach the Little Summit trailhead, hit the trail. After about 1/4 mile you'll reach an intersection - follow the signs to the Summit and Lookout. There will be a bit of a descent, followed by a challenging 1/2 mile climb.
• At the next intersection, again follow the signs to the Summit and the Lookout. This is a beautiful bit of trail, and will take you all the way to the top.
• Enjoy the 360 degree view of the islands and mountains beyond!
• Start your descent on the trail you just climbed, which is the trail that heads south directly from the lookout tower.
• At the first intersection turn right and go towards Cold Springs. After approx 1/3 mile you'll reach the road.
• Cross the paved road and continue heading towards Cold Springs. The trail will be rolling for mile or so.
• There will be several trails on your left but just keep going straight or right at the intersections and follow the signs to Twin Lakes and Mountain Lake.
• Enjoy the flowy descent through the beautiful forest! Take time to notice the huge trees and rugged landscape.
• Near the end of the descent there will be a trail on your right that heads (steeply) back up to the summit. Keep heading towards Twin Lakes and Mountain Lake.
• At the Twin Lakes intersection, follow the signs towards Mountain Lake.
• Once you reach Mountain Lake, take the trail on your left (the other direction is closed to bikes). You will skirt along the lake and among massive trees. There are a few small climbs and one moderate one which is easy of you're fresh or a bit hard if you're getting tired.
• Stay to the right and you'll come to the small dam at the end of Mountain Lake. Cross the little bridge and continue along the lake.
• At the next intersection, turn left and then you'll almost be back to where you parked.

You can make the spiral route a bit easier by continuing further up the road and turning right onto the trail at Cold Springs instead of Little Summit.