Turtleback Mountain Tours and Activities

Waldron Lookout, accessible via a spur trail at 1.5 miles up the northern trail.

Turtleback Mountain is a wilderness-preservation success story. Recently the target of a development effort on Orcas Island, a popular weekend destination for people from Seattle, it was saved from that fate largely by the efforts of one man and his organization, Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust. Thanks to their work, the mountain is now a wilderness area, in perpetuity. As a bonus, a network of trails is now available to allow hikers and sight-seers a chance to explore the mountain. The trails are beautiful and serene and not nearly as crowded as those on the more popular Mount Constitution, which sits on the other side of the island. There are just a few open viewpoints, such as this one, but they do pack a punch. Beyond that, the forest scenery is just fantastic.

Turtleback Mountain is a wilderness-preservation success story. Recently the target of a development effort on Orcas Island, a popular weekend destination for people from Seattle, it was saved from that fate largely by the efforts of one man and his organization, Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust. Thanks to their work, the mountain is now a wilderness area, in perpetuity. As a bonus, a network of trails is now available to allow hikers and sight-seers a chance to explore the mountain. The trails are beautiful and serene and not nearly as crowded as those on the more popular Mount Constitution, which sits on the other side of the island. There aren't many open viewpoints, but the forest scenery is just fantastic.

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Activities

Eastsound travel guide

Popular places to visit

If you haven't been to Orcas Island, go next summer. It is the most beautiful place I have ever been.

Eastsound Beaches

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Eastsound Beaches during your trip to Eastsound? Discover the sunsets while you're in the area.

North Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at North Beach during your trip to Eastsound? Discover the sunsets while you're in the area.

Orcas Island showing landscape views and a lake or waterhole

Cascade Lake

Relax on the beach of this picturesque lake, swim and kayak in the calm water and follow hiking trails to viewpoints and a waterfall.

Orcas Island Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Eastsound at Orcas Island Golf Course. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Skull Island State Park

You can take time to visit Skull Island State Park during your travels to Eastsound. Discover the sunsets while you're in the area.

West Sound Marina

Explore the waterfront in West Sound with a trip to West Sound Marina. Experience the area's festivals and live music.

Best Lodging Options Near Turtleback Mountain

Check availability on hotels close to Turtleback Mountain

Cottage-in-the-Barn on Dragonfly Farm

Eastsound WA

Orchard House

Eastsound WA

Waterfront cottage with tidelands, creek and waterfall!

Eastsound WA

Kingfish at West Sound

4362 Crow Valley Rd Eastsound WA

Dragonfly Pond house is a rustic, spacious, light-filled vacation rental home on Orcas Island with high ceilings overlooking a tranquil pond. Clean & comfy. Located in 7 acres of forest, it's peaceful and secluded. Close to town and the ferry.

Eastsound WA

Cedar Orchard Cabin.

Eastsound WA

Sandy Beachfront, Hot Tub, Pet-Friendly, Kayaking

Orcas Island WA

West Beach Resort

190 Waterfront Way Eastsound WA

Osprey Nest private retreat on Magical Orcas Island!

Eastsound WA

See all 555 properties in Turtleback Mountain

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