Turtleback Mountain Tours

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.
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.
Go on an adventure and make the ascent up Turtleback Mountain. Amazing vistas and a feeling of accomplishment will be your rewards!

This steep landmass in Eastsound is popular with fellow travelers, so put it on your schedule. Don't think that's all there is to do here, though. There are a lot more options ready for you to experience after Turtleback Mountain. Moran State Park, Cascade Lake, and Orcas Island Golf Course are not far away.

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.

Eastsound Beaches
North Beach Inn is a collection of super cool beach cabins from the '50's on Orcas Island's north shore. Cozy as heck -- fireplaces, sea views, full kitchens, modern baths, vintage furniture, the odd creaky bed and no wifi but with a hot toddy and feet up you notice little but the charm of the moody, island weather. Nightly: $145 and up. • northbeachinn.com • #OrcasIsland #SanJuanIslands #inns #vintage

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.

North Beach
Orcas Island featuring a lake or waterhole and landscape views

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.

Cascade Lake

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.

Orcas Island Golf Course

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.

Skull Island State Park

West Sound Marina

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

West Sound Marina

Best Lodging Options Near Turtleback Mountain

Cottage-in-the-Barn on Dragonfly Farm

Cottage-in-the-Barn on Dragonfly Farm

Eastsound WA
Cottage-in-the-Barn on Dragonfly Farm
Orchard House

Orchard House

2 out of 5
Eastsound WA
Orchard House
Waterfront cottage with tidelands, creek and waterfall!

Waterfront cottage with tidelands, creek and waterfall!

Eastsound WA
Waterfront cottage with tidelands, creek and waterfall!
Kingfish at West Sound

Kingfish at West Sound

3.5 out of 5
4362 Crow Valley Rd Eastsound WA
Kingfish at West Sound
Sandy Beachfront, Hot Tub, Pet-Friendly, Kayaking

Sandy Beachfront, Hot Tub, Pet-Friendly, Kayaking

Orcas Island WA
Sandy Beachfront, Hot Tub, Pet-Friendly, Kayaking
Cedar Orchard Cabin.

Cedar Orchard Cabin.

Eastsound WA
Cedar Orchard Cabin.
Outlook Inn

Outlook Inn

3 out of 5
171 Main St Eastsound WA
Outlook Inn
West Beach Resort

West Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
190 Waterfront Way Eastsound WA
West Beach Resort
Osprey Nest private retreat on Magical Orcas Island!

Osprey Nest private retreat on Magical Orcas Island!

Eastsound WA
Osprey Nest private retreat on Magical Orcas Island!
See all 560 properties in Turtleback Mountain
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