San Juan Islands Multisport
Mother Nature's aqueous masterpieces - tranquil channels, shimmering harbors and pristine bays - provide the stunning backdrop for our exploration of Washington’s San Juan Islands. On bike and foot, follow thick corridors of trees past sheltered inlets and coves, and over rolling green mountains. In sleek kayaks, navigate peaceful bays, where harbor seals, great blue herons and sea stars make their home. Shop in galleries featuring the work of local artists, feast on the freshest catch of the day and soak in the magical sunsets that are all part of life on the San Juans.
Days 1-3 friday harbor
Meet in Anacortes 
Ferry to San Juan Island for a warm-up ride along peaceful roads Hike to the top of Young Hill on a trail that reveals breathtaking views of the sound Friday Harbor’s quaint streets, lined with shops and galleries, invite a stroll Ride through the rolling terrain and rural beauty of Lopez Island - and be sure to indulge your sweet tooth at Holly B’s Bakery Bike a scenic loop around San Juan Island and past Lime Kiln State Park for sweeping vistas of Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula At Roche Harbor, slip into sea kayaks and explore the waters off picturesque Henry Island Visit the Whale Museum and view its collection of artwork and artifacts.
Days 4-6 eastsound
Join a local naturalist on a wildlife cruise, searching for orcas, harbor seals and majestic bald eagles Visit sparkling Mountain Lake in beautiful Moran State Park, a nature-lover’s paradise Visit the renowned studios of Orcas Island Pottery Through forests of cedar and fir, ascend lofty Mount Constitution on foot Bike the hemlock- and fir-lined roads on your way to Orcas Landing 
After a relaxing lunch at the landmark Orcas Hotel, we ferry back to Anacortes.
HARBOR SUNSETS: Premiere Inns
Friday Harbor House (3 nights): An elegant inn featuring the works of Washington artists in suites overlooking yacht-filled Friday Harbor. Its restaurant is lauded for innovate Northwest cuisine.
Outlook Inn (2 nights): Spacious suites at this delightful inn on Orcas Island feature balconies, stellar water views, fireplaces and whirlpool tubs.
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Levels 1 to 2 3 Route Options Available
- Biking 14, 24 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
- Hiking 3 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 1 to 3 4 Route Options Available
- Biking 14, 20, 23 miles
- 500 - 1500 feet elevation gain
- Optional Biking 12 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 2 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- Biking 20, 30 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
- Kayaking 3 hours
Day 4
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- Hiking 4 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 1 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- Hiking 4.5, 8.2 miles
- 2000 - 2500 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Levels 1 to 2 2 Route Options Available
- Biking 12, 20 miles
- 1000 - 1500 feet elevation gain
Trips For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Average Distance | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biking | Walking & Hiking | ||
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 mile | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
2009 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS
- 5/31-6/5Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 6/21-26Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 6/28-7/3Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 7/5-10Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 7/12-17Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 7/19-24Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 8/2-7Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 8/9-14Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 8/16-21Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
- 8/30-9/4Price: $2898 pp dbl. occ., (+ $980 for sgl. occ.)
Reserve early for the best available price. Prices may change during the course of the year--if they do change, the best prices are available earlier. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.
Guest Trip Reviews
Overall, phenomenal trip and great introduction to the Backroads business model. Well planned, well executed and great fun for my wife and me. We were referred enthusiastically to Backroads, and now in turn, we would refer our friends and family to go on such a trip. We would do several future trips based on our overall experience. Bottom line, if you think you would like a vacation that feature exertion, great natural beauty, bonding with new friends and having to never worry about your activity schedule or the details or quality of accommodations or cuisine, Backroads is your easy answer.- Northbrook, IL
This was our first Backroads adventure. It exceeded our hopes for anything we could have imagined. Our leaders were among the most considerate, responsible, easy to get along with and all around excellent leaders of any trips we have taken. The experience was remarkable in every aspect from the intinerary, sights, meals, local guides and more. Several guests on our trip were Backroads "veterans" and we now see why! We had such fun and returned home feeling so healthy and invigorated that we cannot wait to choose another trip, bring our family and recommend Backroads to friends. This trip was our gift to ourselves, for our 30th wedding anniversary, the experience you design and the optimal quality of that experience that your leaders ensured made it the best gift possible! Thank you!- Herndon, VA
We have been to many exotic places, but this was one of the best vacations in my life. I attribute this to the quality of the trip leaders, always one step ahead, thinking of everything. The planning was first rate in every way, and customer service could not have been better. The accomodations, food, balance between work and fun, the group - all were terrific.- Rye, New York
Absolutely amazing! Had wonderful guides and met a great group of people. Not to mention the great food. Wow! That about sums it up. You mean I have to ride my old bike now???!!!- Hickory, NC
This trip exceeded my expectations in every respect - you have gained a regular customer. The planning was meticulous, and the execution was flawless. From scheduling a "slower" day after a very vigorous day, to suggesting a sightseeing detour after the longest uphill climb of the day, it is clear someone really thought about how and when to schedule events. I was also impressed with the variety of easy/moderate/challenging options that were offered on most of the rides. Written directions were well done. I also like how you varied the scenic experiences: one day a ride in the woods, the next day rolling hills, farmland and bay areas and the next day sweeping, windswept ocean vistas.- Brooklyn, NY
Our trip was to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary, booked as a "surprise" for my husband, Calvin. It was absolutely delightful in every way! From the organization of your company in pre-trip performance, up to the final goodbye, we had nothing but wonderful weather, tremendous service and outstanding activity.