Mt. Grant Summit Loop

FEATURED WALK

Length: 2.1 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Loop
Submitted by: Alicia McVey

Icon of two green trees; one is a conifer and the other is a broadleaf tree on a white background.
green binoculars icon on white background
Green floral illustration with three flowers
Green bird silhouette on a white background.
Green bicycle icon on a white background
Green silhouette of a person riding a horse on a white background.
Restroom icon with male and female symbols in green
Topographic map with hiking trails in green, elevation lines, and marked waypoints.

This just-over-2-mile loop showcases some of the island’s most peaceful forest trails, with mossy woods, ancient Douglas firs, and sweeping summit views in every direction. From Mount Baker to Vancouver Island, the vistas are well worth the climb. The preserve is bordered by private land, so please stay on designated trails and do not stray off preserve property.

The route is steep in places, especially on the way up, but the trails are well-marked, and a gentle, winding descent makes for a rewarding return.

Street signs near a wooded area, indicating "Mt. Grant Preserve" with a trailhead 0.2 miles ahead, "Richard Lee Ln Pvt," and a yellow "No Outlet" sign with an arrow pointing left. A road and a mailbox are visible nearby.
Wooden trailhead kiosk with a map and information about Mount Grant Preserve, located in a forest setting.

1
Parking Options and Trailhead

After turning off West Valley Road, you’ll immediately pass the lower parking lot on your left (via Richard Lee Lane). If you’d like to add a little extra elevation to your hike, park here and walk up the paved road to the main trailhead. Otherwise, continue driving up the hill to the upper lot, where you’ll find the main trailhead, plenty of parking, and a portable restroom. Start your hike at the trailhead sign and enter the forested trail.

Wooden pathway through lush green forest with ferns, surrounded by tall trees and dappled sunlight.

2
Cross the Boardwalk

Walk across a short wooden boardwalk through the first section of trail.

Forest path with "Geraldine Ln" sign and gated road

3
Carefully Cross the Road

Cross the summit road with caution—vehicle traffic is allowed Wednesdays and Sundays (April–September).

Trail sign for Lawsonite Trail in wooded area, indicating it is for hikers only, maintained by San Juan County Land Bank.

4
Take the Lawsonite Trail

At the fork, turn right onto the Lawsonite Trail for a direct route to the summit. The trail names reflect the unique geology of Mount Grant.

Woodland path with stone steps and moss-covered rocks surrounded by trees.
Forest view with trees in foreground and a distant snow-capped mountain under a blue sky.

5
Steep Climb, Big Views

Most of the climb happens in the first 0.5 miles. Along the way, enjoy sweeping eastern views across San Juan Island and toward Mount Baker.

Wooden bench overlooking a forested landscape with distant mountains and a tranquil body of water at sunset.

6
Summit Views

At the top, take in stunning views west toward Vancouver Island and north to the Gulf Islands. Closer by, you’ll see the back side of Mount Dallas, Sugarloaf, and a glimpse of Trout Lake—the source of drinking water for the town of Friday Harbor.

Scenic view of a forested landscape with distant mountains and a body of water under a cloudy sky. Evergreen trees frame the view, and a wooden bench is in the foreground.
Narrow dirt path with wooden fence leading through a grassy field and forested hills under a cloudy sky.

7
Walk the Summit Loop

Take time to walk the summit loop trail to enjoy 360-degree views in all directions—each turn reveals a new perspective of the island and beyond.

Wooded trail with wooden fences in a forest, surrounded by trees and mossy ground.

8
Begin Your Descent

From the summit loop, return the way you came—but at the fork, bear right and follow signs for the Greywacke Trail.

Close-up of a trail sign labeled "Subduction Trail" indicating a mountain bike descent trail. The sign notes no uphill bike traffic, advises hikers to use caution, and prohibits horses. Located in San Juan County Land Bank.

9
Watch out for Bikes

Mountain biking is permitted on certain trails in the preserve. Keep an eye (and ear) out for cyclists, especially on winding or narrow sections.

Forest path with moss-covered trees and undergrowth
Tall tree stump surrounded by forest

10
Gentle Descent Through the Forest

The Greywacke Trail offers a more gradual descent through mossy woods and past towering Douglas firs, leading you back to the trailhead.