MORAN STATE PARK

'Moran State Park' is a state park on Orcas Island, Washington, encompassing over 5,000 acres (20 km²) of forest (much of it old growth). It is the largest public recreation area in the San Juan Islands. The park has facilities for boating, hiking, biking, horse riding, and camping. Mount Constitution (elevation 2409 ft.) is a focal point of the park. A road and hiking trails lead to the top of the mountain where a 360-degree view of the regional mountain and marine geography awaits. An observation tower enhances views from all angles.

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History

History

The original land for Moran State Park was donated to the state in 1921 by Seattle shipbuilder and mayor Robert Moran. Due to poor health, Moran moved to Orcas Island and built his estate Rosario between 1906 and 1909. Today, his estate serves as the Rosario Resort and Spa [1] and is the largest resort in the San Juan Islands and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rosario mansion features a museum honoring Robert Moran, complete with original furnishings. The mansion's music room is home to a 1913 34-rank Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ and 1900 Steinway grand piano, both of which are still played for visitors today by world-famous musician, Christopher Peacock. Five days a week there is a free program that includes a concert by Mr. Peacock, who plays the aforementioned instruments, and tellings of the history of Moran and Rosario.