Orcas Island by Air

Today dawned sunny and warm, so Wayne and I decided to put the fair weather to good use and get 997 in the air. We've been talking about flying to Orcas Island for quite some time. From our home base at Bellingham International Airport, Orcas is only a few minutes and air miles away. It's one of the larger San Juan Islands that lie between the Washington mainland and the southern tip of Vancouver Island.

Orcas Island Airport (KORS) is situated on the narrow isthmus in the center of U-shaped Orcas Island. Runway 16/34 is 2900 feet long and 60 feet wide. The elevation is just slightly above sea level at 31 feet. Both ends of the runway have clear approaches.

There's ample parking for transient aircraft on the asphalt or in the grass. Look for the blue cones by the terminal and in the southeast corner near the approach end to runway 34. Today it was practically empty, but I'm sure summer can get pretty crowded.

Eastsound, the town center on Orcas Island, is only one mile away. Exit the airport and follow the "Public Path" signs to get there. It's an easy walk through forested areas, open fields and village streets. In Eastsound you will find shops, stores and restaurants. We stopped at The Sunflower Cafe in the center of town. They serve breakfast and lunch with fresh organic ingredients.

With tummies full, we strolled back to 997 waiting patiently in her tie down spot. Wayne and I plan on returning this spring to camp under the wing of our plane and explore all that the island has to offer. If you don't have a plane, you can catch a ride with several regional airlines such as Kenmore Air and San Juan Airlines. You can also reach Orcas using the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes. So, if you are looking for a unique destination, head on out to Orcas Island. - Margy