moran state park

nancyh647

took the dogs hiking to the waterfalls. good hike with some strenuous parts but worth doing. we went early in the morning and were the only ones there. tnen drove up to the top of the mountain, incredible view, well worth the drive.

KatieL688

We drove up to the top of Mount Constitution, the view is incredible! We had a beautiful clear sunny day. We'd love to come back and explore and hike when we have more time. There were several neat lakes that we passed on the way up.

DebraBCapeCod

You won't be sorry. The view from the top is outstanding. Then walk around, breathe, feed your soul, and offer gratitude.

535aditig

Moran state park is THE place to go in Orcas Island if you love nature. It has an unforgettable experience for everyone who is looking for scenic hikes (all levels of difficulty), picnics, camping or photography. It was our first hiking trip in WA and we took the easiest trail (from Cold Spring) to Mt. Constitution. It was easily the most scenic sights on the way and up the peak. It was a clear day and we could see Canada, Mt. Baker and as far as Mt. Rainier. Even if you're not willing to walk, driving up the peak is definitely worth it.Need Discover Pass ($10/mo or $30/yr valid in any WA state park as far as i know) to drive to the peak. It was grey and chilly on the trails and near the lake, so layer up. Carry food and water if you plan to spend hours in there, which you would once you step in!!!

red_head8888

We only had a few short hours but man, were we happy we did it!! The only downside is if you try to venture off onto any of the less-than-popular trails, the maps are not really that helpful. The hikes were gorgeous but perhaps having something slightly more than normal tennis shoes is good since some areas were pretty muddy. The view at the top - wow!!! We were fortunate to go on a beautiful clear sunny day and you could see all the way to Rainer and Baker was a gorgeous site!! Very, very windy and cold so dress appropriately but we loved the sights!! The whole park in general is lush and green and full of so much beauty!! You have to have a discovery pass ($10/day or $30/year) which you can buy at the office. It says there's an automated one somewhere but since we had a lady to help us, we didn't inquire.

103maureenv

We did a day hike from Little Summit to Mt Constitution. It was beautiful so don't forget your camera! Round trip is 4.4 miles, fairly easy but it has some climbs in elevation. I did in my tennis shoes and my husband wore hiking boots. The tower has a 360 degrees view and on a clear day you can see Canada, Mt Baker, San Juan Islands and the top of Mt Rainer. You can also drive all the way up, but you will miss a beautiful hike. Dress in layers it's windy.

diana2949

Lots of hiking options and a great viewing tower built by the CCC. Trails for all abilities from a few hundred feet to several thousand.

KaChHa

We spent the morning in this beautiful park. We unfortunately only had time for a few short hikes but made the most of our time. It seemed as though we pretty much had the park to ourselves--- it was so quiet and peaceful. We walked on the waterfalls trail which was really nice, then headed up Mount Constitution for some amazing views of the islands and mountains and even Canada. It was so picturesque and we especially loved the view from atop the old stone observation tower-WOW!!

TheBarnGoddess

In addition to all of this state park's amenities for camping, swimming, kayaking and hiking, we were absolutely wow'd by the huge, old-growth forests and views of the San Juan's. We saved it for our last day on Orcas but I wish we had spent more time exploring the trails and lakes of the park. There is a day use fee for your car but is similar to other state parks across the country. There are wheelchair accessible portions at some of the major rest areas and there are restroom facilities throughout the park.

wolfcall2

From the vantage point of Mt Constitution you can see Mt Baker, Blaine and all the Islands in between. One of the best thinks of our trip to Orcas Island.

tracyw679

This is one of the better state parks that has something for everyone, hiking, swimming, picnicking, kayaking. Take some time to walk the trails around the lakes and a must visit to the top of Mt. Constitution.

LAGeographer

Moran State Park is among the most beautiful of all the state parks on the West Coast that I've visited. I was amazed by the lushness and density of the forest. It's a great place for a brisk hike or hours of quiet contemplation. If you make it to Orcas and have any appreciation of nature, it's a must visit. The Observation Tower views are incredible. The State Park fees are well worth the price. This isn't like the Space Needle, where you walk up see it and your done (no disrespect intended to that architectural treasure of the Northwest). It's a place that requires taking the time to fully appreciate - being able to see all the San Juan's, Mt. Hood, the Canadian Rockies, and Mt. Rainier (on a clear day), and from Bellingham, Washington to Vancouver, Canada in a single sweeping gaze. How can you beat that?? If you make the trip to the island, you really shouldn't miss the park. It's nothing short of breathtaking.

723tanyad

We took a great hike around Mountain Lake. Our kids loved the view and appreciated the flat terrain. Great park.

Sleeperpage

We hiked many trails in this park over the long thanksgiving weekend. All were well maintained and clearly signed at intersections. The wind and cold that came thru on Friday resulted in a few blow downs that were passable on the cascade loop trail. But they closed the road to Mt Constitution at Mountain Lake. We met a ranger at the southern cascade lake trailhead who explained the situation. So the next morning I called the park to get road info. After s few tries I got thru ( some old phone numbers are out there on the web). Same ranger I believe, said that the road was open to little summit and helped me plan our trek to the top. It's only 2.2 miles on the trail. So we headed up. Trail was easier to hike than u expected. Much of the elevation gain is earlier and the road takes it. What a glorious trip! Great views in the way up and at the top.

Serenereveries

Despite colder weather this state park is beautiful!! Great hiking from easy to challenging, love the lakes!! And to top it off My Constitution with spectacular views on a clear day!!!! A must see for nature lovers!!!