Shark Reef Nature Trail

Great easy loop which culminates in the rocky coast. Great views of San Juan Island. The highlight is the seals sunning on the small islands on the south side.

Short and sweet trail. Starts with a board walk and then opens up along coastline. There is one bench for sitting. There are toilets at the begging with toilet paper. I saw many birds, seals and one deer.

If you would like a low traffic and highly scenic trail this is the one for you! There is a smallish parking lot with a small sign at the entrance. The trail has a bit of a boardwalk and then can get a little muddy depending on the season, early spring is when I encountered this. Once you get to the actual Coast the views are spectacular! We saw sea lions just basking on the rocks about 50 ft from us. You can set up a hammock and just enjoy the sound of nature and the water. Beware that they are strong currents. Also the end of the trail is private property do not go past this. Enjoy!

My favorite spot on Lopez Island! 1/2 mile hike in and we were able to explore the sweet little beach and the tide pools. So picturesque and magical. If you go to the far end you can see seals across the way on the little rock island.

Wow!! Beautiful board walk down to lovely views and seals resting on the rocks! 🥰

I love this little spot. This half mile trail leads to amazing cliff views of Shark Reef where you'll see seals basking on rocks. You can and should climb down to the rocks that hug the shore to have a nice peaceful sit-down and hear the water quietly lapping at the rocks. This is a hidden gem amongst all the sites of all the San Juan Islands.

We did a bike tour of Lopez Island and stopped off at many wonderful locations. One place I definitely recommend is shark reef nature trail. This is an easy trail that starts off as a man-made wooden platform trail that transitions into simple switchback through lush forest land and ends in scenic vistas over a bay. There are many little islands where seals are climbing around.

After walking the trail through the woods and coming up on the shore, be sure to keep following the trail to the left along the coast. After a short bit, you'll see some large rocks out in the water to your left and you'll likely be able to spot any combination of seals, sea lions, otters, and eagles. There are 2 outhouses at the trailhead that seemed well maintained.