"This is the classic loop hike of the San Juan Islands that has it all. Start at Mountain Lake and make your way along the west shoreline on a level, perfect trail. Then branch up from the lake and begin a 1500 ft climb up a pine-needled perfect trail. Brave the crowds at the summit and be sure to climb the medieval watchtower replica for an intense archipelago view. After the summit take the Little Summit Trail and walk down the ridgeline on cliff's edge with views down to Mountain Lake. This section is a perfect trail. Tag Little Summit for an optional 2nd peak, then complete the loop with a short descent. A 6.7 mile loop that's an all-time classic. Did I mention that the trail was perfect? Would be an epic trailrun, sections are open to mountain bikes from Sep 15 to Oct 15 too." — scott • Sep 12, 2011