San Juan Islands Weekend Cycling
Pedal on San Juan Paradise
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- Activity Level: 3-4
- Days: 4
- Group Size: 4-12
- Member price: from $1,399
- Non-member price: from $1,538
Overview
Our 4-day bike touring journey offers adventurers a quick weekend getaway highlighting the best riding and camping of Washington’s famed San Juan Islands. Great snowcapped peaks rise all around as scores of marine mammals and shorebirds bask on the craggy coastline. Whales and dolphins feed in the protected waters while cyclists enjoy the ‘punchy’ terrain on low traffic roads, enjoying the world-class scenery of Puget Sound.
Spend the day meandering along the quiet roads of San Juan, Lopez and Orcas islands. Experience the joys of climbing Mount Constitution, the highest peak in the San Juans. Catch photographic views atop the summit and on the descent as the sun reflects off myriad inlets. Dine on locally-sourced, organic meals prepared fresh daily by our guides throughout the trip. Each evening, we indulge in a campfire under the starry Pacific Northwest sky.
Don’t forget your camera!
Trip highlights
- Get a taste of island life of the Pacific Northwest while cycling the San Juan Islands
- Explore scenic villages with local shops, marinas and restaurants
- Cycle among snowcapped peaks, bountiful islands and beautiful beaches
- Camp the great outdoors with starry nights and campfires along the lakes, bays and beaches
- Clock 121 miles in the saddle with a total elevation gain/loss 9585’. E-bikes available.
Activities
- Cycling
Accommodations
Camping, 3 nights
Itinerary
Meet our guides in Friday Harbor, WA at 10:00am at Memorial Circle, 100 yards from the Washington State Ferry terminal. We’ll load up our luggage and take a short transfer to Jackson’s Beach for our orientation. While eating a freshly-made snack, our guides will brief the group and fit our bikes. We will then set off on our ride for the day visiting Cattle Point lighthouse, Lime Kiln state park and spectacular views of Haro Straight; looking over at Victoria, BC. Our last leg of our day takes us north to the quaint village of Roche Harbor for a quick visit around the marina or sculpture park. Our day finishes with a guide prepared meal at the Lakedale Resort camping area. Lunch and dinner included.
Cycling: 35-38; total elevation gain/loss: 2398'.
We will return to Friday Harbor by another route after a hearty breakfast just in time to explore the harbor and catch the late morning ferry to Lopez Island. After enjoying a picnic lunch on board and arriving on the island, we will ride the perimeter of the island to Lopez Village, Agate Beach Country Park and onward to our campsite for the evening at Spencer Spit State Park. There will be no showers this evening, but a washup station will be provided for guests. The tradeoff is great views of Lopez Sound and the mainland with views of the North Cascades. All meals included.
Cycling: 32 miles; total elevation gain/loss: 1680'.
Our guides will prepare breakfast in camp before we pack-up and ride the 4 miles back to the Lopez Island ferry terminal boarding the mid-morning ferry to Orcas Island. Upon arrival, we will mount up to ride to Eastsound along a rural country road; where we will stop for lunch at a park overlooking East Sound. We will continue along the beach road to Crescent Lake at Moran State Park where we regroup before tackling Mount Constitution; a 2000’ climb over 5.2 miles. We will be rewarded at the top with spectacular, breathtaking views of the entire San Juan island chain, the Olympic peninsula, Canada, and the North Cascades. After we recover and enjoy the views from the summit we will hop back on our bikes for an exciting descent down to Cascade Lake and into camp at Moran State Park where there will be swimming, walking, and showers available. We'll review our achievements of the day around our evening campfire and guide provided meal. All meals included.
Cycling: 27 miles; total elevation gain/loss: 3826'.
After a guide prepared breakfast in camp, our final day’s ride will head toward Eastsound where there will be more opportunity to explore Eastsound and enjoy the local culture of Orcas Island. From Eastsound we will ride out through Enchanted Forest road to West Sound then to Deer Harbor where lunch at be Deer Harbor Preserve. Time permitting, we will ride back to the Orcas Ferry terminal, or otherwise transfer back to the ferry landing for a early afternoon sailing to Anacortes; or if preferred, a late afternoon sailing to Friday Harbor. Breakfast and lunch included.
Cycling: 25 miles; total elevation gain/loss: 1681'.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather and terrain conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Bikes (including E-bikes in limited quantities); all meals as noted in the daily itinerary, sleeping pad, tents; campsite and permit fees.
Not Included
Transportation to the trip starting point; airport transfers; insurance of any kind; optional guide gratuities; alcoholic beverages; bike helmets, sleeping bag (rental available), items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Special Payment, Cancellation, and Transfer Policy
Full payment is due at sign up, fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure. If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
30+ days prior to departure = $0
15 to 29 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:15+ days prior to departure = $0
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.
Weather
The San Juans average 50 percent less precipitation than Seattle itself. This is due to the rain shadow effect of the Olympic Mountains located to the south and west. On a number of islands you'll find prickly pear cactus - a true testimony to the dryness of the region. During summer months, expect moderate to warm daytime temperatures in the upper 60s and 70s with evening temperatures in the 50s. Most days are sunny with occasional fog in the early morning.
Single Travelers
Tent accommodations are shared and solo travelers will be paired with a same gender tent-mate. If you request single accommodations, REI will provide you with your own tent at no additional charge if a single tent is available. Please be advised that there are a limited number of tents and single tents are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Meet your guides
Emily S.
From hiking, swimming, fishing and kayaking in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in winter, you'll find Emily outside. She grew up in Oregon and took her love of the ocean to UC Santa Cruz where she earned a B.S. in marine biology. She began guiding in 2012.
Meet your guides
Jacob W.
Born in Colorado, Jacob has traveled the world in search of adventure. He's been leading outdoor adventures since 2003 and has been guiding in the San Juans since 2011. He lives on San Juan Island with his wife and dog.
Adventure Expert
Arlen
Riding the 'punchy' hills of the San Juan Islands, climbing Mount Constitution, and camping under the stars with a campfire every night is the best way to experience this island getaway weekend.
Departure dates
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Prices are per person, double occupancy.
2019
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Gear list
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.
Bicycles
Bicycles, including E-bikes in limited supply, are included in the cost of the tour. However, you are free to bring your own bike to the trip if you prefer. We request that you have your bike tuned, and worn parts replaced, by your local bike shop prior to arrival and that you bring additional parts such as tubes, spare folding tire and any custom parts that would be difficult to replace. If you choose to ship your bike we suggest that you use BikeFlights.Com to arrange for pickup and delivery of your bicycle. We will provide additional information about shipping your bike in your Pre-Departure Information and/or Final Bulletin.
If you are using our bikes and you are not bringing a shoe and pedal system (optional), you will need a shoe designed for cycling or cross training to be used with the provided flat pedals. Consider these features: lightweight, closed toe, designed with stiffer soles to provide more efficient energy transfer as you pedal. Stiff soles protect your feet while riding and support the full length of your foot to reduce cramping and fatigue. If you bring your own saddle, please bring only the seat and not the seat post. Seat posts are not universal and may not fit the bike you'll be riding. You are welcome to bring a gel seat cover for use on the provided saddle.
Provided by REI
- All Group Cooking Gear
- Flat or Drop Bar Compact Gear Road Bike or EBike
- Flat Pedals
- Handlebar Bag
- Repair Kit, Including Spare Tube
- Sleeping Pad
- Tent(s)
Required
- Cycling Helmet
- Cycling Jacket (Waterproof)
- Cycling Shoes or Shoes for Biking
- Prescription Medications
- Sleeping Bag (Rental Available)
Recommended
- Bike Shorts
- Casual Clothing for Travel and Town Wear (Lightweight, Easily Washable)
- Casual Shoes for Travel and Free Time
- Cycling Gloves
- Cycling Jerseys
- Cycling Pants
- Cycling Water Bottles (2)
- Duffel Bag or Soft-sided Suitcase
- Insulated Jacket and/or Vest
- Luggage Tags and Locks
- Socks
- Sun Block and Lip Balm
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses and Accessories
- Tee Shirts (Cotton and Synthetic)
- Toiletries
- Underwear
Optional
- Arm and Leg Warmers
- Bicycle Saddle (No Post)
- Camera and Accessories
- Cycling Computer
- Cycling Vest
- Energy Snacks and Drink Mixes
- Heart Rate Monitor
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- Reading and Writing Materials
Travel Documents
- Final Bulletin (Emailed Prior to Departure Date)
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (1-800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice, which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
.Itinerary
Print Itinerary Collapse all days
Meet our guides in Friday Harbor, WA at 10:00am at Memorial Circle, 100 yards from the Washington State Ferry terminal. We’ll load up our luggage and take a short transfer to Jackson’s Beach for our orientation. While eating a freshly-made snack, our guides will brief the group and fit our bikes. We will then set off on our ride for the day visiting Cattle Point lighthouse, Lime Kiln state park and spectacular views of Haro Straight; looking over at Victoria, BC. Our last leg of our day takes us north to the quaint village of Roche Harbor for a quick visit around the marina or sculpture park. Our day finishes with a guide prepared meal at the Lakedale Resort camping area. Lunch and dinner included.
Cycling: 35-38; total elevation gain/loss: 2398'.
We will return to Friday Harbor by another route after a hearty breakfast just in time to explore the harbor and catch the late morning ferry to Lopez Island. After enjoying a picnic lunch on board and arriving on the island, we will ride the perimeter of the island to Lopez Village, Agate Beach Country Park and onward to our campsite for the evening at Spencer Spit State Park. There will be no showers this evening, but a washup station will be provided for guests. The tradeoff is great views of Lopez Sound and the mainland with views of the North Cascades. All meals included.
Cycling: 32 miles; total elevation gain/loss: 1680'.
Our guides will prepare breakfast in camp before we pack-up and ride the 4 miles back to the Lopez Island ferry terminal boarding the mid-morning ferry to Orcas Island. Upon arrival, we will mount up to ride to Eastsound along a rural country road; where we will stop for lunch at a park overlooking East Sound. We will continue along the beach road to Crescent Lake at Moran State Park where we regroup before tackling Mount Constitution; a 2000’ climb over 5.2 miles. We will be rewarded at the top with spectacular, breathtaking views of the entire San Juan island chain, the Olympic peninsula, Canada, and the North Cascades. After we recover and enjoy the views from the summit we will hop back on our bikes for an exciting descent down to Cascade Lake and into camp at Moran State Park where there will be swimming, walking, and showers available. We'll review our achievements of the day around our evening campfire and guide provided meal. All meals included.
Cycling: 27 miles; total elevation gain/loss: 3826'.
After a guide prepared breakfast in camp, our final day’s ride will head toward Eastsound where there will be more opportunity to explore Eastsound and enjoy the local culture of Orcas Island. From Eastsound we will ride out through Enchanted Forest road to West Sound then to Deer Harbor where lunch at be Deer Harbor Preserve. Time permitting, we will ride back to the Orcas Ferry terminal, or otherwise transfer back to the ferry landing for a early afternoon sailing to Anacortes; or if preferred, a late afternoon sailing to Friday Harbor. Breakfast and lunch included.
Cycling: 25 miles; total elevation gain/loss: 1681'.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather and terrain conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Bikes (including E-bikes in limited quantities); all meals as noted in the daily itinerary, sleeping pad, tents; campsite and permit fees.
Not Included
Transportation to the trip starting point; airport transfers; insurance of any kind; optional guide gratuities; alcoholic beverages; bike helmets, sleeping bag (rental available), items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Special Payment, Cancellation, and Transfer Policy
Full payment is due at sign up, fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure. If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
30+ days prior to departure = $0
15 to 29 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:15+ days prior to departure = $0
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.
Weather
The San Juans average 50 percent less precipitation than Seattle itself. This is due to the rain shadow effect of the Olympic Mountains located to the south and west. On a number of islands you'll find prickly pear cactus - a true testimony to the dryness of the region. During summer months, expect moderate to warm daytime temperatures in the upper 60s and 70s with evening temperatures in the 50s. Most days are sunny with occasional fog in the early morning.
Single Travelers
Tent accommodations are shared and solo travelers will be paired with a same gender tent-mate. If you request single accommodations, REI will provide you with your own tent at no additional charge if a single tent is available. Please be advised that there are a limited number of tents and single tents are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Meet your guides
Emily S.
From hiking, swimming, fishing and kayaking in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in winter, you'll find Emily outside. She grew up in Oregon and took her love of the ocean to UC Santa Cruz where she earned a B.S. in marine biology. She began guiding in 2012.
Meet your guides
Jacob W.
Born in Colorado, Jacob has traveled the world in search of adventure. He's been leading outdoor adventures since 2003 and has been guiding in the San Juans since 2011. He lives on San Juan Island with his wife and dog.
Adventure Expert
Arlen
Riding the 'punchy' hills of the San Juan Islands, climbing Mount Constitution, and camping under the stars with a campfire every night is the best way to experience this island getaway weekend.