Logo for the Tucker House Inn and Harrison House Suites

Walk This Way: Young Hill

View from a hilltop across a valley and out over the water

Young Hill is a great hike if you’re looking to experience some of San Juan Island’s epic views from a more bird’s-eye perspective than the shoreline spots allow.

WHERE TO START: English Camp, San Juan Island National Historical Park, West Valley Rd.

The trail head is just off the park parking lot. From there, it’s a two-mile round trip with just enough elevation to get your heart rate up and the endorphins flowing.

Young Hill Trailhead

Young Hill trail start

You can also cut the hike just a bit shorter by parking along the side of the road just past the park entrance and beginning your ascent from there.

Young Hill trail start #2

In most cases the climb is a manageable series of switchbacks with only a few steeper inclines. Breathe deeply and enjoy the woodland views and the wildflowers blooming in the grass.

Young Hill grassy fields

Now head up…

Young Hill up hill

…and up…

Young Hill up hill

…and just a little further…

Young Hill up hill

to enjoy the reward.

Young Hill views

Young Hill views and sign

Young Hill views

Once you have caught your breath from the hike — and the views! — return the way you came up. (You can extend your hike and go down the back side of the hill through the Department of Natural Resources land. However, cell service is often unavailable so make sure you are prepared to navigate your way down. Maps are available on the San Juan Island Trails website.)

Back down the trail…

Young Hill descent

Young Hill descent

Looking for more panoramic viewpoints? Consider hikes up Mount Finlayson on the island’s southern tip or Mount Grant Preserve, which offers the highest elevation gain.

Recent Posts

Get Your Friday Harbor Ferry Reservation Now

Summer is the most popular time to visit the San Juan Islands, and the Washington State Ferry system can be a bit tricky to navigate if you’re new to it! The ferry system is a vital transportation network in the Northwest that connects the islands with mainland Washington state. Operated

Read More »

Have the Best Girlfriend Weekend Getaway Near Seattle

This is your sign to get your next friend trip out of the group chat and onto the calendar! One of the best places for your girlfriend weekend getaway near Seattle is in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Not only is this area chocked full of pristine beauty and

Read More »

Start Planning Your Weekend Getaways in Washington with Kids

The San Juan Islands are particularly family-friendly and one of the best places to unplug! Your weekend getaways in Washington with kids in tow can be filled with long (or short) hikes, treasure hunting on the beach, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and so much more. Friday Harbor is a great home

Read More »
Scroll to Top
lighthouse at a rocky shorline with evergree trees at back

Recognized by Travel + Leisure Magazine

We have been recognized by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the best place to stay when visiting Friday Harbor and San Juan Island.

Give The Gift of Tucker & Harrison House This Holiday Season

Give your loved one a very special gift of a stay at our inns.  We offer gift certificates in many amounts.