San Juan Island National Historical Park

American Camp sits on a hill above the Salish Sea. There are incredible views of the water and many opportunities for birding and wildlife appreciation – including foxes that live in the prairie. The trails at American Camp are typically grass and gravel and are not fully wheelchair accessible. The historic buildings are also not accessible. However, visitors who can walk over uneven and sometimes steep terrain, or use all terrain adaptive equipment, may be able to hike portions of the trail system. 

The South Beach trail starts just beyond the historic parade ground at American Camp. The trail is typically five feet wide double track (two worn paths divided by a slightly raised grassy section) which can be difficult to navigate with mobility aids. Continue hiking on a long 2-5% incline, increasing to 5-8% for about 30 feet as you reach the top of the hill. 

Jakle’s Lagoon Nature Trail is regarded as one of the most accessible trails on the island. It is generally five feet wide, and the typical surface is firm packed gravel and soil. However, there is a steep and challenging 10-12% grade that is 0.1 mile long at the beginning of the trail. I recommend it for people who walk with hiking poles and can manage a long incline and decline. There are no benches, but there is a nice cove that is relatively easy to access.