Vendovi Island Trails

Washington Trails Association is working with the San Juan Preservation Trust to create and improve the trail system on this undeveloped and little-known San Juan island.

Vendovi Island is considered the crown jewel of the San Juan Preservation Trust’s preserve network. The island is largely intact; six pristine beaches, rare prairie habitat, bountiful wildlife, lush forests, a colorful human history and few visitors make this a very special place.

This is certainly not difficult hiking. The trails are wide and inviting and several lead to south-facing prairie balds where the wildflowers are abundant in the spring. Three different beaches are also accessible by the trail system, providing ample opportunities for picnicking and enjoying the sun.

To enjoy pebbly shorelines, follow the trails from the dock either to Sunrise Beach on the east side or Sunset Beach on the west side. If you diverge to the right on the Sunrise Beach Trail and slight right two more times, you’ll arrive at Paintbrush Point Overlook about a mile from the dock on the south side of the island.

During the spring and summer especially, the grasslands on Vendovi blossom with camas, paintbrush, fawn lilies and other wildflowers. Because the island is relatively untouched, it is also home to sea birds, eagles, seals, river otters and squirrels. Many people have fallen for Vendovi Island’s charms; you are invited to see these charms for yourself!

Note that while there is no pass required for this hike, groups of 10 or larger will need to contact the caretakers of the island in advance.