San Juan County Conservation Land Bank
Coho Preserve
Orcas Island
Activities
Features
Coho Preserve is a small yet exceptional natural area which was acquired through a grant from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board. Surrounded by towering forest, this magical Preserve is home to multiple songbirds and raptors. It encompasses 24-acres along the west side of lower Cascade Creek, one of the few remaining salmon spawning streams in San Juan County. Located near the estuary at Buck Bay, this section of the creek provides essential habitat for coho and chum salmon, as well as sea run coastal cutthroat trout. Juvenile chinook salmon also forage in the stream’s lower reaches.
24
ACRES PRESERVED
Trail Description
The rich variety of habitat can be relished while hiking the rustic trail loop through the Preserve. A half mile pedestrian trail loops through the Preserve’s mature forest, providing views along the creek and opportunities to observe American dippers, pileated woodpeckers, belted kingfishers and other wildlife that utilize the area. Visitors must stay on designated trails, keep dogs leashed at all times, and respect adjoining private property.
Preserve Map
When you visit
• Stay on designated trails.
• Day use only, no camping.
• No fires.
• Leash your dog and pack out waste.
• Follow leave no trace principles. Take nothing and leave nothing.
Driving Directions
From the Orcas ferry landing:
Take Orcas Road for 8 miles. Turn right on Main Street and continue straight through Eastsound Village. Main Street becomes Crescent Beach Road just east of town. Take Crescent Beach Road east to Olga Road. Turn right onto Olga Road and continue for 7.8 miles. Turn left on Point Lawrence Road and travel 0.1 mile to parking area on the left.
Click the links below to see what flora and fauna others are observing at this Preserve.
