🌤 Weather at Upright Channel by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 41–62 °F | 51–69 °F | 42–65 °F | 38–46 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Olga 2 SE, 5 mi away, elevation 80 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 San Juan Channel — Protected channel between Lopez and Shaw Islands — calm waters for kayaking through the heart of the San Juan archipelago
Upright Channel State Park protects shoreline along Upright Channel — the sheltered waterway between Lopez Island and Shaw Island in the San Juan Islands. This calm channel is a favorite kayaking route through the heart of the archipelago. The San Juan Islands sit in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains — receiving only 20–30 inches of rain per year despite being surrounded by some of the wettest areas in North America. This creates a unique “Mediterranean” microclimate with sunny summers, Garry oak meadows, and cactus-like prickly pear growing among the rocks!
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | San Juan Islands, WA |
| Entry Fee | Discover Pass required |
| Climate | Rain shadow — 20in rain, CACTUS! |
| Kayaking | Calm channel — protected paddling! |
About Upright Channel
Upright Channel is a marine state park in the narrow waterway between Shaw Island and Lopez Island in the San Juan Islands. The channel’s swift tidal currents create rich marine habitat, and the protected shoreline offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands. The park provides boat access to one of the quieter corners of the archipelago.
Things to Do
Boating and kayaking (experienced paddlers — tidal currents can be strong), fishing, shellfish harvesting, and enjoying the serene island scenery. The inter-island ferry passes through the channel regularly, adding maritime atmosphere.
Insider Tips
Lopez Island waterway: Upright Channel separates Shaw and Lopez Islands — a narrow passage with strong tidal currents. Pro tip: Lopez Island is the friendliest San Juan Island — known for the “Lopez Wave” where everyone waves to passing cars. Cycling paradise: Lopez’s flat terrain and quiet roads make it the best cycling island in the San Juans — a 30-mile loop passes farms, beaches, and forests.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Peak cycling and kayaking. Fall: Quiet island atmosphere. Spring: Wildflowers and lambing season. Winter: Cozy island community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which San Juan Island is best for cycling?
Lopez Island is the cyclist’s favorite — relatively flat terrain, 30 miles of quiet roads, and a friendly community that waves at every passing cyclist. The island has farm stands, beaches, and a charming village. Orcas Island has more hills (challenging but scenic), and San Juan Island offers more attractions but more traffic. Bikes can board the ferry without a car reservation.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Spencer Spit State Park is a short drive away, and Blind Island Marine State Park is a short drive away.
Wildlife & Nature
Upright Channel — a marine area between Lopez Island and Shaw Island in the San Juan Islands — provides kayaking and boating in protected inter-island waters. Harbor seals and harbor porpoises frequent the channel. Bald eagles soar above. The channel’s current-swept waters support kelp forests and rich marine life.
Nearby Attractions
Lopez Island — on the east side — has Spencer Spit and Lopez Island State Park. Shaw Island — on the west side — is the quietest of the ferry-served San Juans. Orcas Island — to the north — has Moran State Park. Friday Harbor ferry terminal is nearby.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Upright Channel
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in most Washington state parks but must be under physical control on a leash at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 8 ft maximum leash required; pets must be under physical control
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on designated swim beaches
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed inside vacation houses but are permitted in designated pet-friendly cabins and yurts (e.g. Grayland Beach, Seaquest, Ike Kinswa — Cape Disappointment does NOT allow pets in its yurts), typically up to two pets, with a pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $15 per night pet fee in pet-friendly cabins/yurts
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Director-designated off-leash areas are exempt from the leash rule and are conspicuously posted
Are dogs allowed at Upright Channel?
Pets are allowed in most Washington state parks but must be under physical control on a leash at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.wa.gov. More: Washington state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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