Ferries, boats, and planes
by LeAnn Blackert
Originally Published in the San Juans Beckon
In the days gone by, local Indians and trappers used to access the islands by canoeing across the waters. Today most visitor to the islands still travel by boat, but the only work involved is either walking or driving onto the Washington State Ferries which serve the islands of Shaw, Lopez, San Juan, and Orcas.
The ferries allow passengers to sit back, relax, perhaps sip a latte or glass of wine and enjoy the scenery. And what scenery it is -- island shorelines edged with sinewy, red madrona trees, golden bluffs, or rocky beaches. On clear days, snow capped Mt. Baker rises in awesome splendor in the east. Marine life, including seals, a variety of water birds, and of course, the ever present sea gulls can be spotted cavorting in the aquamarine glacial waters. Sharp-eyed riders may spot a bald eagle perched in a tree or get a rare glimpse of a whale wandering the waters.
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