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Mountain Lake in Moran State Park
Moran State Park is a state park on Orcas Island, Washington, encompassing over 5,000 acres (20 km²)[1] of forest (much of it old growth). It is the largest public recreation area in the San Juan Islands. The park has facilities for boating, hiking, biking, horse riding, and camping. Mount Constitution (elevation 2,409 feet (734 m)) is a focal point of the park. The view from the top of Mount Constitution is considered by some to be one of the world's best panoramic views. A road and hiking trails lead to the top of the mountain where a 360-degree view of the regional mountain and marine geography awaits. An observation tower enhances views from all angles.
[edit] History
The original land for Moran State Park was donated to the state in 1921 by Seattle shipbuilder and mayor Robert Moran.[1] Due to poor health, Moran moved to Orcas Island and built his estate Rosario between 1906 and 1909. Today, his estate serves as the Rosario Resort and Spa [1] and is the largest resort in the San Juan Islands and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rosario mansion features a museum honoring Robert Moran, complete with original furnishings. The mansion's music room is home to a 1913 34-rank Aeolian pipe organ and 1900 Steinway grand piano, both of which are still played for visitors today by world-famous musician, Christopher Peacock. Five days a week there is a free program that includes a concert by Mr. Peacock, who plays the aforementioned instruments, and tellings of the history of Moran and Rosario. During the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the trails, roads, bridges, and buildings that are seen in the park today.[1] They used wood and stone material found on the island to construct houses and buildings.
[edit] Gallery
Cascade Falls in Moran State Park
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Rustic Falls, on Cascade Creek, in Moran State Park
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