American Camp, Mount Finlayson & Cattle Point
This easy to moderate 7.5-mile loop hike on San Juan Island starts at historic American Camp, where you can find a visitors center, 19th-century buildings, and other remnants of the military camp that was used by American soldiers during the Pig War. The hike continues to the summit of Mount Finlayson (290 feet) and then to the lighthouse at Cattle Point. Return along the tree-shaded shoreline trail with views of Jakles Lagoon.
Getting There
American Camp is six miles southeast of Friday Harbor along Cattle Point Road.
on the trail
Starting at American Camp on San Juan Island, the hike will follow a well-marked History Walk to view officers’ quarters, parade grounds and the redoubt from the days of the Pig War dispute (1859-1872). After crossing Cattle Point Road, the route will connect with the Mount Finlayson trailhead, which starts from the parking area near Old Town Lagoon. The trail wanders through grasslands and wildflowers to reach the 290-foot summit of Mount Finlayson. You'll continue downhill to reach Cattle Point Lighthouse with spectacular views of other islands and the San Juan Channel. The return route to American Camp follows a shoreside trail through woodlands where you will have views of Jakles Lagoon.
- Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
- Seasons: Year-round
- Weather: View weather forecast
- Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
- Length: 7.5 mi
- Elevation Gain: 550 ft
- 290 ft
- Land Manager: San Juan Island National Historic Park
- Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
- Recommended Party Size: 12
- Maximum Party Size: 25
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
- USGS False Bay
- USGS Richardson
- Park Map at Kiosk
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