This spring break, I’m knocking off a bucket list running location – Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands! I’ve been eyeing this spot for a while, and now I finally get to take the plunge and spend a few days exploring the trails around Moran Lake. While I couldn’t quite swing the timing to participate in the famed Rainshadow Running Orcas Island races, I’ll still be following much of their course to create my own little running adventure.
As you probably know if you’ve followed this site for any length of time, our travels always include some kind of extra excursion alongside running. It’s all about balance—getting those miles in while also mixing in other experiences to keep things fresh, fun, and well-rounded. Of course, we’ll be doing a whale-watching excursion (because how could you not?), but I might actually be more excited about trying out tree climbing with AdventureTerra on Lopez Island.
Read all our Make a Day of It Features here!
If you’ve ever seen photos of the Orcas Islands, you know the views are unreal. Now, imagine taking those in from the treetops. That’s where this adventure comes in. Tree climbing with AdventureTerra is this cool hybrid of fitness, fun, and an unbeatable perspective.
You’re harnessed in and guided by a trained instructor as you make your way up some of the tallest trees on the island. Think of it like indoor rock climbing—except instead of a man-made wall, you’re ascending a real, living tree. And depending on your relationship with heights, it might even be a chance to conquer a fear or two along the way.
AdventureTerra LLC was started in 2012 by Leo Rosen-Fischer. Leo’s parents and grandparents come from a long line of Swiss mountaineers and rock climbers. The company has allowed Leo to share his love of nature and climbing with a larger audience, giving more people the opportunity to experience the thrill and beauty of the outdoors from new heights.
There’s also something deeply nostalgic about tree climbing—it taps into that childhood sense of freedom and adventure. The whole experience runs anywhere from a couple of hours to multi-day excursions if you really want to go all in. We’re stoked to check this out and report back after our spring break running trip.
For those looking to extend the adventure beyond the Orcas Islands, AdventureTerra also has a sister excursion in Silver Falls State Park. That means you can pair tree climbing with a stunning run on the Trail of Ten Falls—a true Oregon classic.
Stay tuned for the full recap, and if you want more details on AdventureTerra’s tree climbing adventures, check out the links. Can’t wait for this one!
