- 100 Classic Hikes of Washington
Hiking Iceberg Point on Lopez Island
Iceberg Point, a classic hike of Washington, is located on Lopez Island in the San Juans and is a beautiful representation of the coast. The loop trail offers epic views of the Salish Sea and the Olympic Mountains. Hiking amongst the countless sea birds, this trail encompasses everything I look for in a coastal trail.
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Trail Guide for Iceberg Point on Lopez Island
General Information
Visiting the San Juan Islands is one of my favorite trips year-round. The temperate climate allows for hiking throughout the year, and regardless of whether it’s sunny or not, the views are incredible.
I’ve been whale watching in the San Juans a few times in the area, but did you know you can see whales from the shore in the San Juans? It’s an incredible experience. While I haven’t seen whales on Iceberg Point, I am hopeful I will see them sometime!
Region: San Juan Islands
Length: 3.0 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 50 ft
Time: 1.5 hours +
When to go: Year-Round
Pass/Permit?: None
Dogs Allowed?: On-Leash
Hiking Iceberg Point
Beginning at Agate Beach County Park, there is a small parking lot with a bathroom. There is a residential area so hikers will need to walk through along a gravel road before reaching a grove of trees on a shaded path. There are a number of signs that point in the direction of the trail, but I found it easiest to keep my AllTrails app open to follow the trail guide.
Once off the road, the arching trees of this almost mythical forest lead to the sea. There is a plaque at the end of the forest that visitors should absolutely take the time to read. It speaks on the treaty of 1908, how native people managed the land, and also provides some options for the trail.
Read This Next: Turtlehead: 100 Classic Hike of Washington
The Treaty of 1908 was a treaty between the United States and the United Kingdom. This treaty set the boundaries in place for the borders between the US and Canada including the passage ways. It was determined at the 49th parallel, the latitudinal line separating the US and Canada.
Turning left from the plaque, hikers can hike out to the statue where the treaty was signed or they can turn right to hike out towards the lighthouse signal. There are a number of cross cutting routes to take at this point, but there is no right or wrong route to take. I highly recommend hiking down to do some tidepooling if you have the opportunity!
On summer days, the orcas pods can be seen from the trail and wildflowers are in full bloom. This hike is accessible year-round and I truly believe it is enjoyable year-round.
Read Next: Best Hikes on Orcas Island
Should Iceberg Point be a Classic Hike of WA?
I am hiking all 100 Classic Hikes of Washington and Iceberg Point is designated as one of those hikes. But the question is, should it be?
This should be a classic hike of Washington.
This hike is unlike any of the other hikes in the San Juans 100 Classic Hikes. It has a rich history of the United States and if you’ve followed me on any of my other classic hikes, you know I love learning about the historical relevance of the hikes I go on.
I am interested to see how this coastal hike compares to the other hikes in coastal areas such as the Olympics.
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Things to Consider When Hiking Iceberg Point
This hike requires the use of the Washington Ferry System. I recommend spending a couple days out in the San Juans either on Orcas Island or San Juan Island just to get the most out of your trip out there.
Some other classic hikes I’ve enjoyed in the area are Mount Constitution and Turtlehead.
Happy Hiking!
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
