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Lime Kiln Point State Park

Address

West Side Road
Friday Harbor , WA 98250

Hours

Every day Dawn - Dusk

Review

Lime Kiln Point State Park is the place on San Juan Island to watch sunsets and hopefully spot some of the 80-plus Orcas who make the waters of Haro Strait their summer home. Half the fun of Lime Kiln is getting there. West Side Road, which leads to the park, winds along rocky coastline and cliffs and is worth the trip in itself.

The park has two trails, Shoreline and Upland. They can be combined to make a loop from the marine animal viewing area to the lighthouse and then on to the lime kilns. NOTE: As of fall 2000, new facilities were being built and the parks department does not anticipate running water until at least Spring 2001, so bring your own.

The pathway to the marine viewing area is wide and well-maintained. Besides possibly seeing Orcas, porpoises, otters, seals and Minke Whales (from May to October), you might spot deer and fox on the trail. One daring fox followed a group of whale watchers down the trail and stayed within three feet of them during their entire visit. From the marine viewing area, a short trail leads north to the lighthouse. Lighthouse tours are offered in summer on Saturday evenings.

A further trail from the lighthouse to the lime kilns passes through Madrona and Douglas fir trees. It is narrow and a little steep in spots, especially if you take the stairs down to one of the lime kilns to get a better look. Built in 1860, the kilns were used for most 90 years to produce lime used in the production of steel, plaster, cement and paper. "Unstable" and "Danger" signs are posted in spots, so venturing toward some of the kilns might not be a good idea. However, you can come to the park just to see the sunset, wildlife and get some exercise on the trial. Dogs on a leash are allowed.
Written By: Diana Wurn
On: 7/31/2000

Directions

From Friday Harbor, follow Spring Street west as it becomes San Juan Valley Road. After about 1 mile, turn left onto Douglas Road, and follow to the right as it becomes Bailer Hill Road. After about 3 miles, Bailer Hill becomes West Side Road and winds above the water. The park is on the left, about 2 miles north of where West Side Road first offers water views.

Features

Kid Friendly | Bathrooms | Picnic Tables | Walking Trails

Map

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