From quiet pebble beaches to blossoming meadows, San Juan Islands cycling is a peaceful retreat from busy everyday life.
A scenic ferry ride from Washington’s Fidalgo Island brings us to the maritime world of the San Juan’s. Here we cycle on serene island roads, navigating around harbors, inlets, bays, and rolling, green mountains. We ride through color tulip nurseries and old sheep farms. We visit artist colonies and taste fresh seafood cuisine. In the Fall, we can pick our fill of wild berries from just about anywhere along the way.
A half-day’s ride takes us to the to of Mt. Constitution, where we climb up an old stone fort’s princess tower for a bird’s-eye view of the entire San Juan Island chain, the Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound, Olympic National Park, and Cascade mountain range.
The San Juan’s are also a natural haven for wildlife. Great blue herons, black-tailed deer, cormorants, seals, sea otters, and King Fishers make their homes here. We watch for dolphins and orca whales as we ferry through the island channels, where whale sightings occur regularly in season.
When you think of the Northwest, you are thinking of the San Juan’s!
Day 1: We begin by picking you up in Seattle, land of contrasts, a sprawling metropolis dropped into a rainforest climate. Then an hour shuttle takes us where your scenic ride begins; La Conner. Located in the Skagit River delta, La Conner is small, charming fishing village that’s fertile with fields of vibrant flowers. La Conner is home to an annual Daffodil Festival ,and Skagit Valley has its own Tulip Festival, but you’ll also marvel at the fields of irises coloring the landscape (in fact, Skagit County produces more tulip, daffodil, and iris bulbs than any other U.S. county). You’ll heartily breathe in the Puget Sound fresh air as you ride past fragrant, colorful vistas of purple, red, yellow, and white. But don’t forget to glance at the skies for the numerous birding opportunities. There’s plenty of waterfowl amidst the wetlands and estuaries, as well as birds of prey and songbirds gliding through the dry forests of ponderosa pine. We return to La Conner for the night, but this has been an ideal warm-up for our coming exploration of the magical San Juan Islands.
Day 2: From La Conner, we ride across the Swinomish Channel to Fidalgo Island through Swinomish Indian territory. Fidalgo Island boasts a drier climate than Seattle (it experiences about a foot less of rain every year than its large neighbor to the south). After an 11-mile journey north along the coast of Fidalgo Bay, you’ll arrive in the waterfront resort town of Anacortes, a warm tourist getaway that will give you your first clear views of the San Juan Islands. While Anacortes is thick with hiking trails and parks, our ultimate destination beckons about four miles west to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal, where we’ll hop the ferry to fabled Orcas Island. Then it’s an 8-mile bike ride to Eastsound, the island’s main commercial center, where you’ll be treated to a special surprise. You’ll be shuttled to the Rosario Mansion to learn about its builder and local philanthropist Robert Moran. We’ll conclude our evening with a concert in the music room, where Moran’s original 1913 Aeolian Pipe Organ and 1900 Steinway Grand Piano are still housed. Then it’s time to enjoy a nice, restful sleep. The magic has just begun.
Day 3: Prepare to discover the high points (literally) of the largest of the San Juan Islands. Orcas Island is not named after killers whales, but, rather comes from the Viceroy of Mexico who sent an expedition to the island in 1791. The horseshoe-shaped island is 57-square miles of sometimes rugged terrain with awe-inspiring sights, including panoramic views of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. You’ll travel to the east side of the horseshoe, heading south on Olga Road, then roam down the rocky coastline of the East Sound, dotted with madrona trees that loom over the choppy turf, their reddish bark providing a stunning contrast to the deep blue water in the distance. You’ll stop at popular Cascade Lake in Moran State Park for a siesta before embarking on the quest to Mount Constitution. The highest point in the San Juans, Mount Constitution has an elevation of 2,409 ft., with a road that sometimes steepens to a 15% grade (it has an average grade of 8.5%), so dig in for a hearty climb. The view from the summit is worth the trek. You’ll see vast horizons of both mountain ranges piercing the shimmering heavens, and the sparkling topography of islands arrayed in the swirling seas. From the base of the mountain, we move south a couple of miles to Olga, which is at the southern tip of the island on Buck Bay. This beautiful hamlet has a thriving arts community, so enjoy the communion of natural wonders and the creative handiwork of skilled artisans before embarking on the trip back to Eastsound.
Day 4: Yesterday we explored the east side of Orca’s horseshoe—now it’s time for a little west side sightseeing. We begin with a short cruise to the shore of the President Channel, where you may want to stop into Orca’s Island Pottery on West Beach, a store abundant with eye-catching handmade crafts you won’t find in any mainland chain stores. We continue on our twisty, curvy ride around the north coast of the West Sound to Deer Harbor, which is plentiful with Dungeness crab, rock crab, and shrimp, so lunch may be in order. From there, we reverse our journey around the West Sound, then head south to the place where we started this island journey, Orcas, where we’ll catch the ferry to San Juan Island. The most populous of the San Juans, this postcard-worthy island is filled with majestic lighthouses over serene vistas, occasionally disturbed by a whale splashing through the calm surf. We’ll stay in Friday Harbor, a warm, welcoming seaport filled with charming shops and numerous places to sit and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the region. Take it all in and rest up for tomorrow’s exploration of San Juan.
Day 5: We’re taking a tour of the entire San Juan Island, heading south from Friday Harbor through San Juan National Historical Park to the southern tip of the island, where we encounter a piece of forgotten history. This park is also known as the “American and English Camps” that we’re established during the Pig War of 1859, which was triggered by the killing of an actual pig followed by barely restrained hostilities lasting for 12 years. The American Camp is located at the southern tip of the island, the English at the Northwest side of San Juan. Both camp sites are listed as National Historic Landmarks and still have many of their original structures intact. We’ll make our way back up north, riding along the western shore around False Bay, up through fertile fields of prairie land. While San Juan Island is known for coastline sightings of whale pods and harbor seals, there’s plenty to see inland. This is a significant birding destination, where you may spot a great blue heron, peregrine falcons, and even bald eagles. We’ll make our way back to the coast, and after riding about 5.5 miles from False Bay, we’ll arrive at Lime Kiln State Park. This small seaside park is one of the best land sites in the world for whale watching. In fact, it’s the only state park in the country devoted to watching orca whales. From Lime Kiln State Park, we’ll head north for another curvy 10 miles past the English Camp to Roche Harbor, which is an official U.S. port of entry. We’ll return south down hilly roads to Friday Harbor. Take a walk or visit the Whale Museum, then enjoy another splendid sunset. You’ve earned it.
Day 6: This morning we ferry to Lopez Island, where we enter from the very top of the island and move down well-traveled Ferry Road. Lopez Island is the flattest of the three largest San Juans, with rich, spacious farmland and thick forests. We’ll ride toward the eastern coast along Swifts Bay past the wooded hills of Spencer Spit State Park. Then we’ll head down to the south end of the island for lunch on a secluded beach. From here you’ll see the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the south and Victoria Island to the west, along with a view of the majestic Olympic Mountains. Then it’s up north, where we’ll travel along the west coast of the island toward Shark Reef Sanctuary, a terrific spot to watch seals and sea lions off the rocky coast. Then we make our way up to the ferry at the north of the island for our trip back to Anacortes. Take a breather and prepare for shuttle back to Seattle. You’ve enjoyed a hidden jewel of America’s vast natural treasures!
121 Maple Avenue
La Conner, WA 98257
“There were so many things to like! The cozy home-like feeling of the room, lobby and breakfast area, a delicious breakfast and wonderful staff made the trip memorable and perfect.”
– Brilovely
171 Main Street
Eastsound, WA 98245
Showcasing bay views, Outlook Inn on Orcas Island features an on-site restaurant and bar. WiFi is included in all guest rooms. Mount Constitution Moran State Park is 6 mi away. Each room is comfortably furnished. Select rooms feature a fireplace, a spa bath and views of the bay. Located on-site, New Leaf Café serves breakfast and dinner. A beach is located directly across the street from this inn.
“The view from the balcony was remarkable. The room was well taken care of and very comfortable. Definitely looking forward to the next time already! ”
– Timrice5
275 C Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
“The property is convenient to everything. The room was fantastic, especially the soaking tub. The staff is Fantastic and the Breakfast is out of this world great!!! We would return without a second thought. It was Awesome!”
– Cynthia
There is nothing better than rolling into camp to fresh made chips and salsa, homemade guacamole, and Dutch oven enchiladas. Then making your way to a sweet and inviting campfire, sharing your favorite anecdote or image from the day’s activities while marshmallows roast. Enjoy a small-batch, local beer before retiring to your tent. Inside: a sturdy raised cot, fluffy sleeping bag, and a plush full size pillow. Wow. You earned this. Sweet dreams.
The majority of our selected campgrounds feature indoor facilities and showers. Conversely, in more remote backcountry camping scenarios, we’ll provide portable toilets and private solar showers.
Camping gear may be rented or you may bring your own. All of our camping gear is tested and hand-chosen from top manufacturers to ensure you get a good nights’ sleep. Our camp gear package includes a tent, sleeping pad, raised cot, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, full size pillow, and ground tarp.
Night 1: Cranberry Lake Campground at Deception Pass State Park
Nights 2 & 3: Moran State Park, Orcas Island
Nights 4 & 5: Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes
While every Escape Adventure trip is designed to appeal to active adventure seekers, and in many cases, particular skill levels, there is always a different idea of what that exactly means. That is why we have designed the chart below to help make sure you join the proper tour. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companions’ may differ as well. We present a range of mileage options on each tour as well as provide support vehicles as much as possible. That way you can take a break and do as little or as much as you would like each day.
| Day | Activity | Easy | Moderate | Seasoned | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miles | Feet Gain | Miles | Feet Gain | Miles | Feet Gain | ||
| Day 1 | Road Biking | Easy: 21 Miles | 318 Ft. Gain | ||||
| Day 2 | Road Biking | Easy: 9 Miles | 773 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 26 Miles | 1624 Ft. Gain | Seasoned: 29 Miles | 1977 Ft. Gain |
| Day 3 | Road Biking | Easy: 16 Miles | 805 Ft. Gain | Seasoned: 26 Miles | 3446 Ft. Gain | ||
| Day 4 | Road Biking | Easy: 8.3 Miles | 695 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 19 Miles | 1622 Ft. Gain | ||
| Day 5 | Road Biking | Easy: 22 Miles | 1233 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 34 Miles | 2300 Ft. Gain | Seasoned: 42 Miles | 2807 Ft. Gain |
| Day 6 | Road Biking | Moderate: 29 Miles | 1900 Ft. Gain | ||||
Find out more about Choosing a Tour.
Weather predictions are often unreliable, so it is best to be prepared for inclement weather. Please use the following locations when checking the weather online: Friday Harbor, WA
All internal land expenses and services are covered in the cost of your tour. This means from the time we pick you up at our meeting point, until we drop you back off to head home, all transportation, food preparation, meals (except where noted on itineraries), snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, group supplies and community gear (portable chairs, large awnings, coolers, utensils, etc.) are included. Backcountry permits, licenses, park fees, reservations, and accommodations (lodging) are also included, along with at least two professionally trained trip leaders, a mobile first aid and mechanic station, spare bikes, and a support vehicle(s). Trip price does not include airfare, lodging prior to trip start or bicycle rental and/or camping gear (if on a camping tour) unless otherwise noted on itinerary or website.
We rent high-quality camping gear for all of our camping tours. These include a tent, sleeping pad, raised cot, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, full size pillow, and ground tarp. Your Trip Leaders will always help to ensure your equipment is set up properly each night.
Camp Gear Kit Rental: $100.00
When you join an Escape Adventures tour in 2024, you will receive a FREE custom sublimated Limited Edition Jersey!
Make your trip as comfortable as possible on the body, as simple as possible for traveling, and hassle free on tour. On every road bike tour, we will fit you with the newest, highest quality gear in the industry. Escape Adventures provides only high-end bicycles from Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our bikes meet our high standards. All of our bikes are equipped with carbon fiber frames and disc brakes designed for a smooth, comfortable ride. For those who are touring with a companion who may not be as fit or need a little help up the hills, we now have e-bikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.
Specialized has perfected the road bike. Ride confidently and comfortably for longer distances on any of our trips around the world. All of our bikes are equipped with the latest components and our 2019 models include disc brakes.
Specialized hybrid bikes are the most comfortable bikes available. Our most popular bike for multi-sport and moderate road bike tours is the proven Sirrus. This bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. This bike sits upright, is equipped with a very comfortable seat, and the gearing has a wide range of speeds.
For those of you who have always wanted to join a bike tour but feared your fitness would hold you or the group back, fear no more. Our incredible e-bike option allows you to do more, go twice as fast and far. The all new Specialized Turbo has one goal and one goal only—to inspire you to get out, get moving, and to have some fun along the way. E-bike available on most casual and luxury inn trips for an additional price.
Take a deep breath, turn on the power and enjoy a beautiful adventure on the all new Escape Adventure’s Electric Road Bike. The new road e-bike from Escape Adventures now allows you to travel further distances and explore new areas. The pedal assisted technology also allows beginner and novice riders to join in on more challenging routes and terrain.
For over 25 years, the hallmark of an Escape Adventures tour is personalized, hands-on service. Before, during, and after each trip. We are a company of honesty and integrity and we stand behind our product 100%. From the moment you learn of our trips, to the time you return home and start planning your next trip, we are here to bring you the best possible experience. From our Guaranteed Trip Departure Confirmation Policy, making sure your trip is never cancelled*, to our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Policy, backing the unrivaled consistent quality of all our tours, our commitment to you is never compromised. * Scheduled Domestic trips only.
Our environmental commitment is second to none. We run our tours the same way we run our company, with an eye on the triple bottom line: People, Profit & Planet. At Escape Adventures, we elected to pursue a more comprehensive approach to actually reduce our carbon footprint, rather than just offset it. We overhauled our entire operation — from our vehicles, to our buildings, to our procedures — to become an outdoor industry leader in the charge to help our people and our planet.
Leading tours naturally followed from our passion of exploring our favorite places with our friends. Our support staff includes our reservation team who is there to answer your questions about the tours, our service team who prepares your bike and gear for the tour, and our guide team – the ones who take you into the great outdoors. The highest level of responsibility, good nature, integrity, and dedication are standard traits of all those who work at Escape Adventures. We our proud of it and we think you should know it.
Having custom-made vehicles allows us to take you to places few other outfitters can, or will go. Every Escape Adventures tour is accompanied by at least one support vehicle, trailer, and in some cases a second and third transfer van. As you thumb through our catalog, you will also notice our vehicles are big, tough, and different. These are not stock vehicles. After purchase, we custom engineer our trucks, vans, and trailers by our on-staff mechanic to meet the unique needs of different tours. Each of our guides is required to be trained in safe vehicle operation, 4X4 driving, and basic maintenance. Our experienced guides make it look easy, transporting you and up to 12 guests, along with their bikes, fresh food, camping gear and plenty of drinking water to a remote location.
Make your trip as comfortable as possible on the body, as simple as possible for traveling, and hassle-free on tour. By choosing to rent a bike from us, we will fit you with the newest, highest quality gear in the industry. Escape Adventures provides only high-end bicycles from Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our rentals meet our high standards. All of our bikes are equipped carbon fiber frames and disc brakes designed for a smooth, comfortable ride. For those who are touring with a companion who may not be as fit or need a little help up the hills, we now have ebikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.
Our food isn’t just good, it’s good for you.
Food represents a big part of the Escape Adventures experience. Our guides prepare all of your meals on our camping trips. Expect three delicious meals a day consisting entirely of freshly prepared foods. These include fresh organic fruits and vegetables, as well as meats. We also have energy snacks aboard our support vehicles. Don’t be surprised if your guides purchase fresh fruits and healthy snacks throughout the day while you’re enjoying a ride. They may just show up on the trail with a local treat! An increasing number of our guests are vegans or vegetarians, whom we not only accommodate but also pleasantly surprise. Should you possess special diet requirements and/or limitations, just let us know at sign-up. We’ll work with you to meet those critical needs.
The idea of taking your friends or family somewhere cool and amazing is actually pretty easy. Tell us what you’re thinking. We’ll make it happen.
Any trip in this catalog, any specific time frame, any group size, we can custom-fit if not comfortably accommodate. A Custom and Private Escape Adventures trip affords the ultimate bonding, or team-building experience for:
To shape a Custom or Private Trip, we begin a dialogue: first, to develop a group specific itinerary, tailored to respective abilities and preferred tempo. Next we schedule, bookmarking and working in your optimum or ideal getaway dates. Size-wise, we can build a multi-day trip for as few as two people, scaled up to as many as 30 plus. Contact us today to start the custom trip building process.
All Private Escape Adventures Trips are priced in the structured method below. Some Custom tours are priced differently if they vary from the Classic Escape Adventures itinerary and price. In this situation we will provide your group with a custom itinerary and price.
* Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. All private tours on The White Rim must meet a 13 person paid minimum. All private tours on The Maze must meet a 7 person paid minimum.
