Moran State Park Trail Review

May 15, 2012
Trail Review for Moran State Park

***NOTE MOST TRAILS ARE CLOSED TO BIKES FROM MAY 15^TH TO SEPT. 15^TH*** (see map closely)

Our ride started at the ferry terminal on Orcas Island. We rode our bikes to Moran State Park, climbed up Mt. Constitution on the road then did a modified version of the classic spiral route. We ended up climbing Mt. Constitution twice. We returned via the road the same way we came.

Location:

View Larger Map
Getting there:

From I-5:
Take Hwy. 20 exit westbound to Anacortes. Follow signs to San Juan/ Sidney, B.C. ferries. Take ferry to Orcas Island. Turn left after exiting the ferry, and follow signs to Moran State Park (approximately 14 miles).

http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/ Be sure to check ferry times, get there early when it’s nice out, and be aware of height restrictions.

Guide books and Maps:

The park is not very large and signage is very good. If you print the map from the Evergreen site and the one here, you should be all set.

Fees or Passes:

Discovery Pass Required If you drive your car.

Ferry

The Facts:

Singletrack	80%
Fire road	0%
Paved	20%
Total trail	30 mi.
Alt. change	2,400′
Latitude:	48.655422934686
Longitude:	-122.854549884796

Current Conditions:

Unfortunately for the rest of you the conditions don’t really matter as most of the good trails are closed to bikes as of today, May 16^th and will not open until Sept. 16^th. For those of you would still want to go and enjoy the lower trails and possibly camp I can say the conditions are spectacular. There is virtually no mud, except maybe at a few stream crossing as one would expect. Other than that the trails are dry and buff.I totally plan to go back in late September or early October. The trails will be ever better with a little moisture in them. I can’t wait!

What to expect:

If you have only ever ridding trails in or around Seattle, this place will wow you. It’s such a nice change from the riding you know. You can expect climbs that tickle your taint and send your heart into the red zone followed by some of the best flowing descents in Washington. The trails are typically wider than your average single track and not overly technical. The views from the summit of Mt. Constitution are well worth the climb as is the descent off the mountain. Twin Lakes are a great place to stop and have a snack. If you’re lucky you’ll see trout and salamanders. Over all the trails are some of the best you’ll ride. The flow of the trails combined with the old growth forest and mossy landscape leave you wanting more.Keep your eyes open as the park does have a lot of deer. They are not very afraid of humans either.

Local Groups/Clubs/Bike Shop:

Wildlife Cycles -Eastsound

Evergreen MTB

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