Hike the Highlands Trail

Olga, Washington

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Details

Distance

1.5 miles

Elevation Gain

200 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

An gorgeous hike through massive Douglas Firs and ferns with fantastic views of Puget Sound and the East Sound of Orcas Island

Obstruction Pass State Park is something of a hidden gem on Orcas Island given that its nearby neighbor, Moran State Park, gets most of the tourist attention. What this means is that you can find solitude and quiet, *and* make a visit to the only publicly owned beach on the island.

There are several interconnected trails in the park (including Sound View) and the Highlands Trail takes you across the highest point in the park and down to the Obstruction Pass beach.

To get there you have to first get to Orcas Island (via the Washington State Ferries or some other means) and then follow the main Orcas Island Road all the way around to the East Side of the island, staying left onto Point Lawrence Road at the Catkin Cafe then bearing right onto Obstruction Pass Road following the signs to the State Park.

There is one trailhead that immediate divides with the Highlands trail heading off to the left.

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Features

Photography

Running

Hiking

Bathrooms

Beach

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

Groups

Picnic Area

Romantic

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

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