Many travelers to the San Juan Islands have hiking and biking on their itineraries. Thankfully, there are so many lovely San Juan Island hikes and biking opportunities to explore during your stay! A unique thing to know about San Juan Island, which is about 14.5 miles long and 6.5 miles wide, is that the landscape drastically changes from one end to the other. The landscape on the Northend is completely different from the South—one side is awash in lush, dense forests, while the other is more open with sandy hills covered in scrub brush.
Biking in the San Juan Islands is a fantastic way to get from one hike to the next. As you cycle along the main routes on San Juan Island, you’ll surrounded by rolling hills, farm fields, glorious forests, and shoreline vistas. Leave your bike at the beach or at the trailhead as you head out to explore on foot. Depending on your skill level, you’ll find a route from easy-breezy walks to challenging climbs with intense elevation changes—you’ll love adding these San Juan Island hikes to your trip!
Our Friday Harbor lodging property is comprised of multiple buildings converted into our luxurious bed-and-breakfast-style accommodations. We have a variety of room layouts and designs, creating a welcoming space for any type of vacation. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, pets, or having a solo retreat, we have an option for you. We also include a long list of complimentary amenities, like our daily homemade breakfast delivered to your door. Start planning your next adventure to the islands, and book your lodging today!
San Juan Island hikes & Biking Trails to Try this Summer
San Juan Island is a popular destination for outdoor adventures in Washington. It offers diverse landscapes, stunning coastal views, and abundant wildlife. Hikers are drawn to its scenic trails, which showcase the island’s natural beauty, from lush forests to rocky shorelines, and provide opportunities to spot orcas, eagles, and other local wildlife. The island’s mild climate and well-maintained trails make it an ideal location for hiking and biking year-round.
Here are the most popular locations for San Juan Island Hikes:
You’ll love adding these hikes to your itinerary; these main state parks and nature areas are perfect for all kinds of outdoor adventures.
- Lime Kiln Point State Park: Perhaps the most popular state park on San Juan Island, Lime Kiln is also known as the ultimate destination for whale watching. The 1.6-mile loop trail lets visitors glimpse these majestic creatures from the shore.
- American Camp National Park: This local park has two main trails. Jakle’s Lagoon Loop Trail is 3.5 miles long and passes through forests with coastal views and fascinating historical landmarks. The shorter South Beach Trail is two miles along the longest public beach on the island.
- English Camp National Park: The counterpart park to American Camp, English Camp also has two main trails to discover. Both the Bell Point Loop Trail and the Young Hill Trail are perfect under two-mile treks to explore the beautiful landscape.
- Mount Finlayson: This 3.5-mile loop does have a bit of elevation gain as you climb this island landmark, but the panoramic view is well worth the effort as you gaze out over the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the mountains beyond.
The Three Main Biking Routes on San Juan Island:
- Roche Harbor Road: This route begins at Tucker Avenue and extends to the island’s northern part. The 9.2-mile biking path in the San Juan Islands concludes at the Roche Harbor Resort and Sculpture Park. The route has a wide shoulder to accommodate other vehicles.
- Beaverton Valley Road: This paved path extends from Guard Street and turns into West Valley Road. At 8.2 miles, you will pass English Camp and then intersect with Roche Harbor Road 1.3 miles later.
- Cattle Point Road: This trail for biking in the San Juan Islands starts at Mullis Road and heads south 5.4 miles until you reach this historic landmark. At 7.4 miles, you will hit South Beach and enjoy the incredible beachfront panorama. At 9 miles, you will reach Cattle Point Lighthouse and the DNR Interpretive Center.
Book the Perfect Getaway at our Friday Harbor Lodging Property
After a day exploring the best San Juan Island hikes, you’ll love returning to our Friday Harbor lodging property to rest your well-worn muscles at our bed and breakfast. Choice rooms have hot tubs or in-room double jacuzzi tubs—whether you’re here for romance, that well-deserved friends trip, or a family vacation, we have options for everyone. You’ll have everything you need to relax, refresh, and recuperate for the next day’s adventure.
One of the best places to refuel is Coho Restaurant, just a block from our Inn. We can help you with reservations, and you’ll be just steps away from a fantastic farm-to-table feast. We are committed to using local ingredients and supporting local businesses and farms to the best of our ability. A scratch-made meal at Coho Restaurant will be one of the most memorable events during your vacation to San Juan Island! You’ll also enjoy our award-winning wine selection and desserts.
Even better, as a guest at our Friday Harbor lodging property, we also take care of your morning meal. We take the same care and attention to preparations as they do at Coho, and you’ll love our homemade breakfast dishes delivered right to your door—always paired with piping hot coffee, orange juice, and more. You’ll also have an afternoon treat awaiting your return from the best San Juan Island hikes or bike rides. We can’t wait to host you; make your reservation today!
