Guest Author - Denise J. Hoffman

The Tour de Lopez is a scenic bicycle ride, held every spring on Lopez Island, one of the San Juan Islands in northern Washington. Hundreds of spandex-clad bicyclists, at all experience levels, take the 40 minute ferry run from Anacortes to spend the day or the weekend. The Northwest weather is unpredictable so rain gear and warm clothes are useful. Riders officially begin from Odlin County Park and have a choice of completing an 11, 17 or 30 mile circuit with a stop for lunch and entertainment by a local band.

Although a small island, about 15 miles long, the terrain (and weather) varies from north to south. The ferry landing is at the northern most tip of the island where the scenery ranges from rocky cliffs flowing down to a sandy beach at Spencer Spit State Park. Further south, the quaint village in Fisherman Bay is picturesque. It provides everything a resident or visitor needs including a grocery store, bakery, pharmacy, gas station, resort, restaurants, marinas, and bed and breakfast facilities. Most importantly for me, there are two coffee shops.

The center of the island is dotted with sheep, cattle and vegetable farms. Many residents sell homemade goods at the Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Stop in and see the historic Center Church. On the southwest side of the island, look for Shark Reef Park with its inviting wooded trail leading you to the shore. The most turbulent tide changes in the Puget Sound can occur in this area. Sea lions sleep on the rocks and you can often see them hunting in the clear water below.

Further south, the Southend Deli offers a welcome break. Then the peddlers continue to the southern shores that are open to the Straits of Juan de Fuca. Incoming weather from the south or west beats against the beach and rocks. Agate Beach offers public beach access. Note that most of the beaches and tidelands are private property. Only use designated public areas. Iceberg Point is within walking distance but the trailhead is not easy to find. Follow the road until you see a small sign and turn right. Iceberg offers great views of the Straits, Anacortes, and maybe a view of Orca whales.

So brush the dust off your bicycle. Registration is limited and the tour has sold out early in the past. Cell phone service has improved since the island installed a tower but service is still not accessible everywhere. Forget the phone. Follow the Lopez waving tradition. Smile and give strangers your best wave when you come ashore. After all, time slows down on Lopez, so relax and enjoy life.