Upright Channel
🏆🏆🏆🏆 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.
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.
Park Location
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