San Juan Island
San Juan Islands, Washington
Road
46 miles | 3,490 ft elevation
San Juan Island is one of the three main San Juan Islands (Orcas Island and Lopez Island are the other two), and although it’s the most populous, it has a mellow and peaceful vibe. The 45-mile loop around the island feels relaxed, despite the 3,400 feet of climbing, and you’ll find yourself sharing the bike lane with many other cyclists, e-bikes and mopeds. It has a little bit of everything – rolling hills, short climbs, coastal views, smooth roads and minimal cars.
From Roche Harbor, head south on Roche Harbor Road to West Valley Road where you’ll ride below tall trees until you reach the ocean. As you look out across the water, you can see Canada in the distance. About 4 miles after riding by False Bay, you will enter San Juan Island National Historic Park, which is an out and back section you won’t want to miss. Before the descent to Cattle Point Lighthouse, be sure to stop and take in the views of the ocean and the surrounding islands.
After enjoying the scenery, turn around and head back the way you came and make your way towards Pear Point. You will wind your way into the bustling town of Friday Harbor, which is the perfect place to stop and grab something to eat. (San Juan Island Brewing has a great menu and plenty of beer.)
Once you leave town, you’ll ride for about 10 miles through rolling hills and farmland as you find your way back to Roche Harbor. (If you stay in Friday Harbor, the route is the same with a modified starting point from Friday Harbor.)
Hotel Recommendation
Roche Harbor Resort – this quaint, historic resort is tucked away in the northwest corner of the island and has everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are multiple accommodation options, including hotel rooms, condos, cottages and multiple-bedroom homes. We stayed in the 3-bedroom “Seaglass Cottage” home and it was comfy, spacious and had multiple outdoor seating areas.
There are a few dining options on the property (all with excellent menus and views of the harbor), as well as a handful of other amenities. If you want more dining and shopping options, it is a quick 15-minute drive to Friday Harbor.
Notes
You need to take a ferry to get to San Juan Island and it can be very busy in the summer months. Information on tickets, reservations and schedules can be found here.
There are not many places to get water/food (other than in Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor) along the route, so plan accordingly.
Friday Harbor can be very busy with cars and tourists, especially when a ferry is docked and vehicles are loading/unloading. Be cautious as you ride through town.
The summer weather on the island is warm and dry (unlike rainy Seattle), so you can pack your rain gear just in case but you mostly likely won’t need it.
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