TRIP DESCRIPTION
SAT-Sept 18 We will load the bus at 7:45AM and depart at 8:00AM(can you believe it's not 4:00AM?) from Niles to catch our 12:20PM United flight 929 at O’Hare. Our non-stop flight is scheduled to land at 2:40PM in Seattle. Our deluxe motor coach will then take us to the beautiful San Juan Islands and the charming port city of Anacortes on beautiful Fidalgo Island. We will have a lunch stop at Mukilteo Ferry before we ferry to Whidbey Island. Once on the island we will stop for a neat 2.5 mile hike at Heart Lake before checking in at the Cap Sante motel in the heart of the historic district. This area abounds with great little restaurants and is a very short walk to the harbor.
SUN-Sept 19 After breakfast we will leave for the short drive to Deception Pass and an awesome hike along the straits between Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands . Following the hikes ranging from 1 to 5 miles we will continue on to Coupeville for lunch. This quaint village on the coast is the second oldest village in Washington State. After lunch we will do a stunning 1 to 3.9 mile coastal hike at Ebey Point. Then it is back to Anacortes for our evening meal at another one of the great restaurants.
MON-Sept 20 Before breakfast we will head to the ferry terminal to arrive early for the ride to Orcas Island. You can have a good breakfast at the terminal or on the ferry of Bagels, croisants, muffins and etc. Our hike on this quiet, scenic island will be at Moran State Park through it's old growth forest. Hikes will range from 1 to 12 miles. Eventually everyone will end up at the top of Mt. Constitution at 2,407 feet and enjoy the magnificent views. The long hikers will pass by Mountain Lake at about the half way point. Everyone will pass by Cascade Falls. Following our gorgeous hikes we will go to the quaint village of Eastsound for a late lunch before returning to Anacortes. You will have time to sight see and shop at the ferry terminal. Once again enjoy dinner in Anacortes.
TUE-Sept 21 This is a free day to explore Anacortes. Suggested activities include a whale watching cruise where you are likely to see sea lions and eagles as well, kayaking, biking or perhaps visiting nearby La Conner. Hikers can enjoy the Staircase Hike along the bay to beautiful Washington Park. Later I am treating everyone to dinner at the Anacortes Yacht Club with Jack and Gerri Gunn serving as host bartenders.
