- 100 Classic Hikes of Washington, Hiking
Mount Constitution (Winter): 100 Classic Hike of Washington
Located on Orcas Island in Moran State Park, Mount Constitution is the highest point in the San Juan Islands. Hiking Mount Constitution offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding islands from the top of a constructed watchtower.
If you’re looking for a spectacular trail to complete on Orcas Island this winter, I cannot recommend Mount Constitution enough. With panoramic views of the Puget Sound and Mount Baker, this Classic Hike of Washington is bound to be a favorite.
In this short trail guide, you’ll learn everything you need to complete the trail this winter, including important ferry information, winter details, and information about the watch tower!
If all of that sounds good to you, let’s get into it!
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Visiting the San Juan Island in winter is one of the most magical staycations you can do in Washington. While relaxation and respite are what the San Juans are known for, they still have some spectacular hikes. Mount Constitution is one of those spectacular trails.
In the winter, the summit parking lot is closed, so the only way you’ll be getting to the summit of Mount Constitution is by foot. So let’s hit the trail!
Trail Stats
Region: San Juan islands
Distance: 8.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 2000′ gain
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Time to Complete: 4.5+ Hours
When to go: Year-Round*
Pass/Permit?: Discovery Pass
Dogs Allowed?: On-Leash
Hiking Mount Constitution
There are a number of different routes to take up to Mount Constitution, some longer and more strenuous than others. The route in 100 Classic Hikes of Washington being the most strenuous route of the options.
Beginning at Mountain Lake, the trail winds along the lake for 0.8 miles and is almost entirely flat. The views are that of lush forest and a sparkling sapphire lake. This section of the trail can actually continue on along the entirety of the lake and is 3.0 miles long.
Veering left towards Twin Lakes, the elevation starts to begin. This section of the trail is covered in plush moss and cascading ferns. This is also the section you will begin to experience the first taste of elevation gain. When you reach twin lakes, take the trail to the left towards Mount Constitution. This is where the switchbacks begin.
A switchback is a 180 degree turn in a path leading up or down a mountain. Switchbacks are used to make hiking up a mountain easier by decreasing the grade of the trail, but they also prevent erosion of the mountain. The steeper a mountain the more likely erosion is to occur.
Want to do another 100 Classic Hike in the San Juans? Check Out: Ebey’s Landing
There will be two series of steep switchbacks with a break of flat ground in between allowing you to catch your breath. It was a wonderful relief to reach these points. Since I was hiking in the winter, after the first set of switchbacks, snow began. It was pretty slushy but if you hike right after a freezing night the snow should remain solid to avoid sliding around.
After some meandering through the woods and following a steep path, you will eventually reach a road. This road will make you realize that there really was an easy way to get to the top of Mount Constitution. Drive!
Read Next: Winter Hiking Gear
With the watchtower in site, you climb up the four floors of stairs and reach the pinnacle. Surrounded by beautiful views of the sound, you can see for miles on a clear day. There are insightful plaques to read on the way up providing information on the history of the area and the tower. I highly encourage you to stop and read them.
There is a visitor center up there that is open for most of the year. When snow is heavy it is closed. Unfortunately they were closed while I was there, but I will definitely be back!
Just when I thought the views could not get any better, the descent front Mount Constitution has extensive views of the sound. It was breathtaking to have such a variety on this hike from walking along a lake, through ethereal woods, and along the cliffside.
For the remainder of the hike, the snow on the trees was melting enough to feel like it was raining. I ended the hike happy and a little soaked. I cannot wait to go back to this hike in the summer.
Should Mount Constitution be a Classic Hike?
I am hiking all “100 Classic Hikes of Washington”. But the question is, Should Mount Constitution be a 100 Classic Hike of Washington?
As the highest point in the San Juan Islands, this should absolutely be a 100 Classic Hike of Washington. The views are magnificent, and with so many ways to access the views of Mount Constitution, everyone can enjoy it.
Originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the history of Mount Constitution should be preserved and recognized. Even if you don’t hike the 8-mile trail to the time, it is at least worth the drive up to the summit of Mount Constitution in the summer!
Let me know in the comments if you think Mount Constituion should be a 100 Classic Hike of Washington!
If you’d like to complete your own 100 Classic Hikes journey, you can purchase the book here.
What to do after Hiking Mount Constitution
Moran State Park has so many other wonderful hikes to complete including Cascade Falls. They also have an area for you to rent kayaks to take out on Mountain Lake on a warm summer day. You could also just go for a swim!
But if you’ve been following me for a while, you already know my favorite post hike activity is grabbing a post hike beer. Orcas Island only has one brewery, Island Hoppin’ Brewery. There is limited parking but plenty of parking and friendly staff. You’ll find that the island is full of friendly people.
If beer is not your style, on those hot summer days, you should visit the Orcas Island Clever Cow Creamery for some ice cream.
Whatever you do, a visit to Orcas Island is a must.
Keep in mind when planning your hike:
Getting to Orcas Island requires the use of the Washington Ferry. If you’re planning on completing this hike, I would suggest spending at least one night on Orcas Island. The ferry to Orcas Island is out of Anacortes and with the drive and ferry ride can be a long day.
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.
