Days
<1
Motors Allowed?
Yes
Difficulty
Moderate / Class B
Distance
7.00 mi (11.27 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The paddling between Matia Island and Orcas Island provides panoramic mountain views, up-close wildlife viewing, and on a clear day, you can even see the skyline of Vancouver, B.C. Along this paddle, you’ll also see unique beach houses on the northern shore of Orcas Island, and you can explore nearly 4 miles of uninhabited shoreline at Matia Island.

The single best area of this paddle may be the north side of Matia Island. Waters can be exceptionally calm and glassy with less wind and current than other areas of the paddle. Also, it’s a popular spot for seals and porpoises to hang out.

Before embarking on a trip from Matia Island to Orcas Island or vice versa, be sure to consult a tide chart. It will be a difficult paddle if you have poor timing, as the water in this area can vary by as much as 14 feet and cause a strong current.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Wildlife. Island Views. Out of the ferry line travel.

Cons

Tides. Possible rough water. Exposed during channel crossing.

Features

Fishing
Picnic tables
Covered picnic areas
Whale watching
Wildlife
Bird watching
Wildlife

Site characteristics: Water

Sound/Strait

Portage required

No

Location

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