Moran State Park - Cascade Falls
Puget Sound and IslandsBest Year-round
Four waterfalls along one short trail through old-growth forest on Orcas Island.
About This Trail
Cascade Creek drops through a forested ravine on Orcas Island, producing four distinct waterfalls along one short trail. The route leaves a small gravel pulloff on Mt. Constitution Road and reaches a signed fork within the first few hundred feet. The right fork leads to Cascade Falls, the tallest waterfall in the San Juan Islands at 40 feet. Side spurs reach Rustic Falls, Cavern Falls, and Hidden Falls, each with its own character.
The forest here is old-growth, heavy with moss and ferns, and the creek runs hard after rain. Two viewpoints bracket Cascade Falls: an upper overlook and a lower trail that crosses a bridge near the base of the ravine. Both are worth the stop.
This works well as a morning warm-up before driving to the Mt. Constitution summit, or as a standalone outing for families wanting a short walk with a big payoff. The trail picks up some roots and mud in the wet months, but nothing that slows most hikers down.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- Slippery roots when wet
- Small parking lot fills quickly in summer
Getting There
Small gravel pulloff on the right side of Mt. Constitution Road. Room for about 6-7 cars. Fills fast on summer weekends. Discover Pass required.
From the Anacortes ferry terminal, take the ferry to Orcas Island. Drive north on Gibbs Road, then Orcas Road to Main Street and Olga Road through Moran State Park. Turn onto Mt. Constitution Road and watch for the trailhead parking on the right.
Early morning works best in summer to beat ferry crowds and secure parking. Off-season, any time of day is fine.
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