Ellsworth Storey's Tower — Attraction in Orcas Island

There are lots of opportunities to hike up to the tower which I was prodded to do by my peers. One of the hikes wasn't long (1.8 miles) which I was a fan of. It includes a lot of great views, some of which are arguably more pretty than the views at the top. There is lots of wildlife up at the top, so don't be invasive or an obnoxious person that throws things at deer. There are lots of deer up at the top. Two of two times I have been up to the top I have seen multiple deer.

The tower is not wheelchair accessible in case you are wondering. There are exhibits telling the history of the tower on your way up and some Instagram worthly pics through the windows (according to my brothers standards).

Some fun things to try: Get your friend to stay on the ground and take a pic of you while your in the tower. Be cautious.

I recommend and was going to rate four stars due to the views from the tower being so-so but I realized that I came back the next...

However you got up here, it will have been worth it. From the tower (which has a thoughtful write-up on its history and design, always love to see the inner-machinations of the early government enigma) you have a stunning panorama of all the islands and coastal towns that speckle Washington's shores--the busy refineries of Anacortes, the bay of Bellingham, and, if you really look (or bring binoculars, but I forgot...), both Vancouver Island and Vancouver. How confusing is that? Hikers are some of the best people so shout out to Chris and Matt, good...

When the road is open (roughly Apr-Nov) and the weather is good, this is a must-see when on Orcas. The view is one of the best in the state, with Rainier, Seattle, Glacier Peak, Baker, and Vancouver all visible in clearest air. Even if you can't see The Mountain, you'll still get stunning views of the Salish Sea and the deeply forested south end of Orcas. The drive up is half the fun, rising over 2000 feet over the numerous switchbacks and dropping 7 or 8 degrees F. The story of how the tower was built is...