San Juan Islands Tour 2026

Event Description

*Event details are still being finalized and are subject to change.

The San Juan Islands, nestled into the Salish Sea between the Olympic Peninsula and
Point Roberts, Vancouver Island and the Skagit Valley, tempt vacationers, explorers, avid
recreationalists, and all those seeking a unique getaway to someplace extraordinary.

We’re crafting a Tour for all ages to let you discover the wonders of the Islands at your
own pace and curiosity level. Loops around at least three of the most bikeable Islands range
from 33 to 55 miles with plenty of time during and after to experience savory delights,
satisfying rides, and other-worldly relaxation.

Comfortably camped on Lopez Island, we’ll take advantage of Washington Ferries inter-
island service to also experience San Juan Island from English to American Camps, Orcas’
stunning range from sleepy Deer Harbor to majestic Mt Constitution, as well as our own
particular take on a “Tour de Lopez.”

With four days of mapped routes over three islands, cyclists may choose to ride as much
or as little of the terrain as they wish (or can handle). All will gather on Lopez for the first day’s
introduction to island life and an easy warm-up ride of 37 miles. Whether you take an afternoon
or evening ferry out for Tuesday accommodation or catch the early morning Wednesday boat
from Anacortes, you’ll have plenty of time to check in or pitch a tent or sling a hammock before
the first half-day’s pedal. We’ll reconvene for a group supper (bbq, anyone?) and rider briefing
about the next day’s options around San Juan Island following a morning ferry crossing to
Friday Harbor.

Another rider briefing Thursday evening will present your options for the Friday
excursion across Orcas Island. Riders may arc over the top of the island and then return to
Lopez to complete their day. Or the more intrepid will be able to venture all the way to Doe Bay
for an extra night’s rest and recuperation before kicking off a fourth day’s ride with the possibility
of reaching the top of Mt Constitution in Moran St Park.

Folks may return at their own schedule to Anacortes, from either Orcas or Lopez Island.
 

Registration

*Registration details to be announced at a later date.

Route

*Route details to be announced at a later date.

Event Schedule

*Event schedule details to be announced  at a later date.

Inclusion

Everyone is welcome at Cascade events. We are committed to celebrating and promoting diversity in the bicycling community. We aim to provide safe spaces at start lines, finish lines, and official rest stops. Read our commitment to anti-racism and our participant code of conduct and grievance policy.

We would like to acknowledge that our rides take place on native land. Our offices are located on the traditional land of the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People past and present.

Food & Breaks

Light snacks will be available at the morning check-in.

Lunch is provided and includes fresh fruit, sandwiches (gluten free and vegan options), chips, and other snacks and drinks.

Additional water and snack stations will be posted as needed.

Where to Stay

*Lodging details to be announced at a later date.

Support During the Ride

This ride is supported by Cascade staff and volunteers.

Support and gear (SAG) vehicles are present on the route and dispatched when you call the ride support hotline. SAG vehicles can transport you and most models of bikes in the event of a mechanical or minor medical event. You should always call 911 in a life-threatening emergency.

Weather

August weather can bring many things: rain, extreme heat, and lots of sun. Morning temperatures may vary drastically from midday temperatures. Wear or bring layers to have available on your bike with you, and lots of sunscreen.

Get your bike tuned up and in shape to ride on gravel and roads. Bring front and rear lights, backup batteries, install fenders, service your brakes, and clean your chain.

E-Bikes

Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are permitted on this ride, which utilizes multi-use trails.

Training

The Cascade Training Series is a twelve-week ride series designed to prepare you for long-distance and multi-day rides. Riders of all paces will not only building their strength and endurance, but also their confidence.

To help you prepare for this ride, you can also check out our extensive schedule of Free Group Rides in the Puget Sound area. Find rides that fit your schedule and desired pace and distance.