Friday Harbor, Washington · San Juan County
San Juan Island is well known for its splendid vistas, saltwater shores, quiet woodlands, orca whales and one of the last remaining native prairies in the Puget Sound/Northern Straits region. But it was also here in 1859 that the United States and Great Britain nearly went to war over possession of the island, the cris…
San Juan Island is well known for its splendid vistas, saltwater shores, quiet woodlands, orca whales and one of the last remaining native prairies in the Puget Sound/Northern Straits region. But it was also here in 1859 that the United States and Great Britain nearly went to war over possession of the island, the crisis ignited by the death of a pig.
San Juan Island is served by Washington State Ferries, several private cruise and shuttle craft and two air carriers (one of which has both land and seaplane service). The Washington State Ferries terminal is 85 miles north of Seattle and 90 miles south of Vancouver, BC in Anacortes, WA.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →This recreation area contains 1 facilities — campgrounds, trailheads, and visitor centers.
Heading to San Juan Island National Historical Park? A few things to know before you go:
Photo: Sergei AkulichWashington's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.
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Photo: Maddi BazzoccoTen gentle, well-marked Washington trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.
Photo: Tobias MrzykWashington's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.
Photo: Diego LozanoFederal parks and recreation areas in Washington ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.
Photo: Tobias MrzykWashington's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.
