Moran State Park

Mountain Lake in Moran State Park

Moran State Park is a state park on Orcas Island, Washington, encompassing over 5,000 acres (20 km²)^[1] of forest (much of it old growth) with some 30 miles of hiking trails.^[2] It is the largest public recreation area in the San Juan Islands. The park has facilities for boating, hiking, biking, horse riding, and camping. Mount Constitution (elevation 2,409 feet (734 m)) is a focal point of the park. The view from the top of Mount Constitution is considered by some to be one of the world's best panoramic views. A road and hiking trails lead to the top of the mountain where a 360-degree view of the regional mountain and marine geography awaits. An observation tower, which was built in the 1930 patterned after the 12th-century Caucasian towers^[3], enhances views from all angles.

History

The original land for Moran State Park was donated to the state in 1921 by Seattle mayor and shipbuilder Robert Moran.^[1] Due to poor health, Moran moved to Orcas Island and between 1906 and 1909 built his estate, naming it Rosario. Today, the former Moran estate is [1] Rosario Resort and Spa [2]. It is the largest resort in the San Juan Islands and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rosario mansion features a museum honoring Robert Moran, complete with original furnishings. The mansion's music room is home to a 1913 34-rank Aeolian pipe organ and 1900 Steinway grand piano, both of which are still played for visitors today by the musician, Christopher Peacock. Five days a week there is a free program that includes a concert by Mr. Peacock, who plays the aforementioned instruments, and recounts the history of Moran and Rosario. During the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the trails, roads, bridges, and buildings that are seen in the park today.^[1] Wood and stone material found on the island were used to construct the estate's houses and buildings.

Gallery

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  Cascade Falls in Moran State Park

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  Rustic Falls, on Cascade Creek, in Moran State Park

References

1. ^ ^{a b c} "Washington State Parks - Moran State Park information". Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. created September 20, 2004 modified July 26, 2007. http://www.parks.wa.gov/parks/?selectedpark=Moran. Retrieved 2008-05-04. 
2. ^ National Geographic's guide to the state parks of the United States
3. ^ National Geographic's guide to the state parks of the United States

Coordinates: 48°39′46″N 122°49′27″W / 48.6628°N 122.8241°W / 48.6628; -122.8241