The park was established in 1921 after Robert Moran, a shipbuilder, donated his estate to the state of Washington.
The stone observation tower atop Mount Constitution was modeled after 12th-century medieval watchtowers in the Caucasus Mountains.
Mount Constitution is one of the few places in Washington state where you can view both the sunrise and sunset over water.
The park contains one of the last remaining stands of old-growth Douglas fir on Orcas Island.
The park's lakes are restricted to electric motors only, preserving the quiet environment of the interior.
Moran State Park spans 5,252 acres on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands archipelago. The centerpiece is Mount Constitution, which rises to 2,409 feet, the highest point in the San Juan Islands. A stone observation tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s sits at the summit. The park features five freshwater lakes: Cascade, Summit, Twin, Mountain, and Fouracre. Visitors can access over 38 miles of hiking trails that traverse old-growth forests and subalpine vegetation. The park offers over 150 campsites, including tent sites and utility spaces. Mountain biking is permitted on specifically designated trails. The summit provides panoramic views of the San Juan Islands, the Cascade Range, and parts of Vancouver Island in Canada.
The top level of the stone observation tower on Mount Constitution.
Check the summit visibility conditions before driving up, as dense fog frequently obscures the views.
Book camping reservations well in advance, as the park is highly popular during the summer months.
Bring layers, as temperatures at the 2,400-foot summit are significantly cooler than at sea level.
Attempting to hike to the summit from the lake level without sufficient water and physical preparation.
The summit road may close temporarily during winter months due to snow or icy conditions.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive subalpine plants; leash pets at all times.
