If you want to visit the San Juan Islands with pets there are lots of great activity and accommodation options. Especially if lots of fresh air, water, and walks are what you both enjoy.
How pet friendly are the San Juan Islands?
Several vacation rentals and hotels in the San Juan Islands do allow pets. The small towns, parks, and beaches are all very welcoming to pets. Orcas and San Juan Island both have off leash dog parks.
What trails are recommended for walking my dog?
Most parks and beaches request that you leash your dog. However many people allow their well-behaved and friendly dogs off leash, especially when there are not many people around. It is important to note that the islands still have many active farms so if your dog likes to chase farm animals you must keep them on leash, or they can be shot.
Iceberg Point, Lopez Island
This open rocky bluff has lots of space for your dog and you to romp. Add to this winding shoreline trails and gorgeous views of the Olympic Mountains and it becomes the perfect evening stroll. Park at Agate Beach County Park on Mackaye Harbor Road and continue south until the road turns to gravel, take a right at the tree line, heading towards the water.
Point Colville, Lopez Island
This modest trail leads through established evergreen forest to a stunning view at the southern tip of Lopez Island. This trail takes some finding, don’t lose hope when the road gets rough. Head to Watmough Bay, on Watmough Head Road, and then keep going past the turnoff for the bay. The road will become a narrow dirt drive, keep going a little further and then park where you see a small sign on your right, before you leave the forest.
American Camp, San Juan Island
American Camp has tons of options for great walks. Walk behind Mt. Finlayson through the forest, walk up the petit Mountain along an open ridge, or take your water dog for a long walk along the stony beach. To get here from downtown Friday Harbor head out Cattle Point Road and watch for signs on both sides after about 7 miles.
Mount Young, San Juan Island
This is a great hike if you want to get some height and look west towards Vancouver Island. The trail winds up through the woods, from West Valley Road, to a great view of the islands and mountains in the distance. To get here from downtown Friday Harbor head west on Roche Harbor Road and take a left on West Valley Road, the trail will be on your left.
Moran State Park, Orcas Island
Moran State Park has over thirty miles of trails. Many of which head up Mt. Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands. The Park also has several freshwater lakes. To get here from Eastsound head south on Olga Road and watch for hiking signs after you pass under the picturesque white arch.