A unique and private escape - Judd Cove Preserve
When you begin planning your excursions and sightseeing locations on Orcas Island, these popular destinations around the island are a must for your itinerary:
- browsing the shops and studios of the quaint town of Eastsound
- beach-combing the nearly mile-long stretch of picturesque Crescent Beach
- taking in the majestic panoramic views atop Mount Constitution in Moran State Park
While those are some of the most popular spots, we wanted to share one of the often overlooked locations on the island for a peaceful reprise, and one of our favorite locations on the island - The Judd Cove Preserve.
A view of Judd Cove from Orcas Road near Eastsound
The Judd Cove Preserve
The Judd Cove Preserve is found along the western shore of East Sound. It is made up of three parcels of land that were acquired by the San Juan County Land Bank from 2000 – 2008. (Learn more about the San Juan County Land Bank and their work here)
The nearly 12-acre natural area encompasses a rich variety of habitats, including mature mixed forest, over 300 feet of marine shoreline, freshwater wetlands, and extensive tidelands.
In addition to the amazing views, the site is also the location of a partially restored 1880’s lime kiln and quarry.
Information boards located at the site help with some of the history and background of the lime industry in the San Juan Islands.
The partially restored lime kiln (Gregg Kiln) at Judd Cove Preserve
HOW TO GET THERE
A view of the Judd Cove Preserve, part of the San Juan County Land Bank Preserve
Here's a link to the Judd Cove Preserve that provides driving directions, parking location and some friendly reminders while you're visiting.
We hope you get a chance to visit this amazing spot. There are some picnic tables if you want to bring in a lunch, or you can enjoy the beach - either way, you're sure to enjoy this road less traveled!
Thanks and have a great time visiting Orcas Island!
Orcas Island Getaway
NEXT:
Learn where you can find this amazing waterfall in Moran State Park in our blog post:
3 of our favorite hikes in Moran State Park
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