Turtleback Mountain Preserve
A mountain preserve on western Orcas Island, with forest trails leading to open rocky summits and views of sunsets over Fawn Harbor and the western islands.
Turtleback Mountain Preserve covers about 700 hectares and opened to the public after being acquired by a land trust. Roughly 13 km of trails cross Douglas fir and oak forests and grassy slopes. The most popular viewpoint, the 'Turtle Head,' overlooks Fawn Harbor, Shaw Island, and the western islands. In spring, the grassy slopes are covered in wildflowers. Admission is free, with parking lots at both the north and south ends; a one-way hike takes 1 to 2 hours. Cycling off designated routes within the preserve is prohibited, and pets must be kept on a leash.
Opening hours
Sunrise to sunset
Nearby sights
- Eastsound
- Moran Mansion at Rosario
- Sucia Island Marine State Park
- Friday Harbor
- Moran State Park – Cascade Lake
- The Whale Museum
- Lopez Island
- Mount Constitution