Guemes Mountain Trail

Starting your adventure near Skagit County, Washington, the Guemes Mountain Trail offers a delightful loop of around 3 km (1.9 miles) with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to enjoy a moderate hike with rewarding views.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Anacortes, WA, and take the Guemes Island Ferry from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. Once on Guemes Island, drive to the trailhead located near South Shore Road. For those using public transport, take a bus to Anacortes and then the ferry to Guemes Island. From the ferry terminal on Guemes Island, you may need to arrange a taxi or a ride to the trailhead.

### Trail Navigation The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. For navigation, consider using HiiKER to ensure you stay on the right path and to track your progress.

### Trail Highlights As you begin your hike, you'll find yourself immersed in a lush forest of Douglas fir and western red cedar. The initial part of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to acclimate to the surroundings. About 1 km (0.6 miles) in, the trail starts to ascend more steeply, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape through the trees.

### Flora and Fauna The Guemes Mountain Trail is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for native plants like salal, Oregon grape, and sword fern. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of species such as the Pacific wren, chestnut-backed chickadee, and red-breasted nuthatch. Deer and other small mammals are also commonly spotted along the trail.

### Scenic Views Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll reach the summit of Guemes Mountain. Here, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker, and the Skagit Valley. This is an excellent spot to take a break, enjoy a snack, and soak in the scenery.

### Historical Significance The region around Guemes Island has a rich history. The island was named after the Spanish Viceroy of New Spain, Juan Vicente de Güemes, in the late 18th century. The area has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and you may come across interpretive signs along the trail that provide more information about the island's cultural heritage.

### Completing the Loop After enjoying the summit, continue along the loop trail as it descends back into the forest. The descent is gradual, making for a pleasant return journey. The entire loop should take around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.

### Practical Tips - Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail can be muddy, especially after rain. - Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. - Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly. - Use HiiKER for real-time navigation and trail information.

Enjoy your hike on the Guemes Mountain Trail, where natural beauty and historical richness combine to offer a memorable outdoor experience.