Cascade Lake Loop

Cascade Lake Loop circumnavigates the largest lake on Orcas Island, offering a delightful blend of forest walking, shoreline scenery, and mountain views in Moran State Park. Cascade Lake is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating, and the loop trail provides access to all aspects of this beautiful freshwater environment. The trail winds through mixed conifer and deciduous forest, dipping to the water's edge at several points where swimmers and picnickers gather on warm summer days. The eastern shore passes through the main park campground and day-use area, while the western and northern sections traverse quieter forest away from the busiest facilities. Views across the lake reveal the forested ridgeline rising toward Mount Constitution, providing orientation and a sense of the remarkable topography concentrated within this island park. Osprey are regularly seen fishing above the lake, plunging feet-first to snatch trout from the surface. Rainbow and cutthroat trout attract anglers to the shoreline and to rowboats on the water. The trail is gentle enough for families with children and makes an excellent introductory hike for those new to Moran State Park. The loop can be walked in either direction and combined with a visit to nearby Rustic Falls at the lake outlet for additional scenic interest.