Volunteer Hosting at Mount Constitution, Orcas Island, WA – What Do We DO Here?
What we were really looking for was a lighthouse hosting job. I’d been calling every single Washington lighthouse (all 21 of them) since the middle of December trying to find someone that needed hosts for the summer and could take a 40-foot RV. Surprisingly only two lighthouses had shown any interest. One position we took (North Head), but the the other job just didn’t speak to us. Also, for whatever reason our thoughts kept getting drawn to the San Juan Islands, a mysterious archipelago of fascinating-looking islands clustered in the space between Washington and Canada. I’d pegged them on the map years ago and just couldn’t seem to get them out of my mind. They called to me like sirens in the sea, mocking “the beast” and teasing my thoughts. Wouldn’t it be FUN to host on an Island? Wouldn’t that just be the most unique experience ever? Somehow I just had to find a way….
That’s when Michel from Friends of Moran stepped into the picture. Apparently my incessant calling around had gotten my name thrown on the volunteer grapevine and she’d picked it up. We talked and started an exchange of e-mails which ended up with the job we have now. Most of the conversation took place on-line, so what I’m about to tell you is a bit of a parody. But if we HAD conducted the whole thing by phone I have no doubt it would have gone down exactly like this:
“I hear you’re looking for an Interpretive Position?” Michel opened
“Definitely, but we really only do lighthouses. We’re kind of lighthouse nuts you see. Do you offer any hosting at the lighthouses where you are?” I asked, hopeful…
{I knew there were 5 lighthouses on the Islands, but I also knew it was a massive long-shot}“Well kind of. I mean we have a tower which almost looks like a lighthouse”
“Reaaaally” I responded, somewhat intrigued despite myself “Lighthouse-like, eh? And where would this be exactly?”
“On Orcas Island. At the top of Mount Constitution” she said “We’ve got an RV site up there. Well and a Learning Center. Plus the tower, of course. ”
{Nina furiously Googles the tower at Mount Constitution…it does look kind of Lighthouse-ish}“Reaaally” I compounded, even more intrigued “Is this in a campground?”
“No. It’s just a single site. No-one else camps there”
{Hmmmmm….nice}She hesitated at this point, obviously a bit worried about the next bit “You’ll be somewhat isolated up there. It’s 5 miles up the mountain and we close the gate at night”
{AWESOME I thought. How could that possibly be a negative?!}“It’s full hookup though. Oh, and we offer free DSL internet too” She added, clearly looking to soften the blow
{HOLY MOLY RV jackpot!! A full hookup site on the top of a mountain on an island by ourselves WITH internet?? I think I might have a swooned a bit here.}“DO tell me more…..”
A month later our job was booked, our background checks completed (Washington State Park requires mail-in background checks) and we were ready to go. So, what’s it actually like? What do we do? This is where I finally reveal all….
The Mount Constitution Lighthouse Tower & Learning Center
Our hosting jobs are centered around the Tower & Learning Center at the top of Mount Constitution. The mountain top is the highest point in the San Juan Islands at 2,409 feet above sea-level and boasts a spectacular view of the surrounding area. In 1935-36 the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) hand-built an impressive 45-foot sandstone tower at the summit quarried from local stone. Over the years the castle-looking structure (modeled after medieval watchtowers from the Caucasus mountains of Southern Europe, no less) has acted as a fire-lookout, observation point and TV transmission station. Right below the tower the park operates a Learning Center which has info about the Island, games for the kids, examples of local fauna (we keep rough-skinned newts and Kokanee Salmon fry on display…totally cool) and also a small Gift Shop (separate building).
Our Hosting Job & Hours
Our hosting job is focused on assisting at the Learning Center and Tower. We’re interpretive hosts which means we are there to answer questions, inform folks about the Island/tower and tell stories. The Learning Center is open 11-4PM which are the hours we work with a few extra duties for opening & closing. Michel also has interns which help out so there are usually the two of us and at least 1-2 interns at the top at all times (plus whoever is working the gift shop). Total required hours are 28/week (both of us combined) and it’s up to us if how/if we want to split shifts. So, for example we can chose to work 14 hours each on split shifts to cover the 11-4 operation hours, or one of us could chose to do the entire 28 hours on our own. We work 5 days on and have 2 days off.
Ferry Fees & Reimbursement
Probably the biggest dilemma for anyone who decides to host at Orcas is the ferry fees. It is not cheap to get over here, especially if you are “beast-size” like us. Our total crossing fees were $315.75 (round-trip, unhooked price). What is super-cool about the volunteer program on Orcas is that Friends of Moran will reimburse you ALL ferry fees if you commit for 2 months and maintain 28 hours/week of volunteer time. This is in addition to your free RV site, of course. Since we’re only going to be here for a month we will only get partial reimbursement (pro-rated to our hours), but this was absolutely part of the price we were willing to pay for this unique opportunity. Camphosts get the same deal.
Our RV Site
One of the nicest parts of the Mount Constitution gig is the RV site. The park has created a spacious, flat (really lovely) full hook-up site right next to the Learning Center at the summit. The electric post is brand new (50 Amps) and you get water/sewer plus access to free internet. There’s a cool and very private “sitting area” at the back and you’re surrounded by trees with the panoramic view of the mountain-top only a minutes walk away. Honestly the site is fabulous!
As an added bonus it’s the only site up here and you’re the only folks allowed to overnight camp here. This means you have a 10-second “commute” to work and you also get the place to yourselves when the lower gates closes**. During the day the parking lot does fill up with visitors so you will have people around you (sometimes quite a lot of people), but early morning and at night you’re on your own.
**NOTE/ The road to Mount Constitution opens at around 6:30AM and closes after sunset (openings/closings are done by the Park Ranger, not the summit hosts). As a host you get a code in case you need to get in after hours.
Pet Friendliness & Atmosphere
ALL of Moran State Park, all of the trails, all of the lakes and the entire Mount Constitution center is pet-friendly. In fact, even the Learning Center allows pets (something that’s very unusual). The volunteer coordinator (Michel) is a wonderful lady and she’s super-focused on making the volunteer experience as good as possible for those who come here. All the interns and Park Rangers are also very helpful & friendly. In fact there’s very much a “family” atmosphere here, more so than at any other park we’ve volunteered which is why many of the volunteers who come here end up returning year after year (our co-hosts at the lower campground just re-signed for ALL of next season). The Island itself also has a great “vibe” with lots of options for hiking, biking and eating. It’s a very diverse place.
And The Bottom Line Is…?
Honestly the job is super easy. You interact with visitors & kids, help them with questions and just generally try to make it a pleasant experience for folks coming to the summit. Most of our time is spent at the Learning Center, although we also man the tower at intervals (depending on whether we’re both on-shift and how many interns are helping that day). There are no formal tours, so the stories we tell really just depend on visitor’s interests.
We do get a lot of visitors in the summer (especially middle of the day and sunset) and the parking lot fills up which means nowhere to “hide” while the road gate is open, but early morning and at night we are on our own. Our site is fabulous and exactly as nice as I expected, we have TONS of hiking (all downhill from here, but that really just improves our derrières), there are 2 huge lakes within 10 mins drive (swimming, hiking, paddling), a super-cute downtown within 20 mins (farmers market, mocha’s, restaurants, shopping) plus the view from the top is AMAZING. Oh, and the internet rocks 🙂
However the best part (in my mind) of interpretive hosting is the people you meet and what you learn from meeting them. We’ve been woken up to bagpipes (played by a tall Scottish fellow with a flaring white mustache and heavy brogue -> he was a character LOL!), had kids who asked why our newts didn’t conform to Newton’s Law of Gravity (I think they were hoping to catch me out here, but they had NO idea what a geek I am -> that was a blast), had a movie star visit (I’m not saying who, but I was pretty darn surprised) and met people from Greece to Alaska. Everytime someone asks me a question or tells me their story I learn a little more about the Island and the history. So, we learn, we experience and we get to park by a view that most folks would pay millions for. What’s not to like?
Interested?
Obviously I think volunteer hosting is an awesome summer job (I mean, after all we do it :)). If you’re interested in volunteering here too contact Friends of Moran (e-mail: support@friendsofmoran.com) and let Michel know Wheelingit sent you.
Useful Links & Related Posts:
- We Sail, We Climb, We Conquer – The story of our drive up the mountain on Orcas Island
- Friends of Moran – Main contact for all Moran State Park volunteer programs
- Volunteering On the Road Part I – Why Do It?
- Volunteering On The Road Part II – Where To Look For Openings
- Volunteering On The Road Part III – 4 Steps To Securing Your Dream Job
Sounds absolutely lovely! I’ll have to make a mental note for when we are on the road! 🙂
Volunteering is a great way IMHO to spend some time in one spot & contribute (as well as reducing camping costs). It’s our #1 preference for the crazy summers.
Nina
There’s not much to say besides “WOW”!
It’s a fun photography spot. No end of prime opportunities for nature buffs.
Nina
I agree WOW. Good score Nina.
I was pretty chuffed when we got this gig. Definitely a completely unique experience.
Nina
All I can say is 2 words Jealous and Breathtaking…..
All I can say is I think that is the best gig ever
I can’t deny, it’s pretty sweet 🙂
Nina
The last time I was there was 1962?…Have fun I can tell by your post you are!
David
That’s certainly going back a few years! Wonder how much it’s changed?
Nina
That last shot makes it clear you’re “flying high.” It looks like you are looking out from your seat on a 747 or something like that. 🙂
The early mornings here are something else. I really didn’t think we’d be above the clouds here, but so far we’ve not been socked in once. It’s surreal to see the island fogged in with full sun up here at the summit. Exactly like flying.
Nina
Just stopped by to say hi,
Looks like another fantastic spot in your journey.
Glad to see all is well and look forward to our next visit.
Papa
Any, you know, janitorial duties?
Nope, none. Someone else takes care of the toilets. We do occasionally sweep/dust the visitor center and we take out the garbage daily, but that’s it.
Nina
That’s awesome!! I think I’d like to try that next year. Thanks for the most informative post.
Better contact Michel soon. I’m sure these positions will fly away once the “secret” is out.
Nina
Sent my app in just now! She sure will have a rich set of applicants from which to choose next year. Hope I am one of them!
Looks like you hit the jackpot again. What a gorgeous place, and such a unique opportunity.
It was definitely worth all my calling around to find this.
Nina
What you are describing about the park and Orcas Island is why our Daughter and Husband decided to get married there. We will be in Anacortes, where they live, in a couple of weeks. Time permitting, we might come out.
John
Oh how fun! Love it when my blog readers have a link to the place we’re hosting! I could see Orcas being a magical place to get married. Do come by if you decide to sail to the island.
Nina
Absolutely awesome! Thanks for sharing your adventures with us, I really enjoy your blog and look forward to your posts. Mount Constitution is on my list 🙂
Good! It’s definitely worth the visit.
Nina
I love seeing places I have been on your blog. What an awesome gig you have there. Isn’t the view one of the most amazing you’ve ever seen? We lived in Olympia for the past 30-ish years. We are full time now but that is home. My parents are there and my daughter is in Portland. I’m so glad you found that perfect spot for you. Enjoy! Juley
The view here is truly spectacular! The best on the San Juan Islands IMHO.
Nina
Sounds like a very cool experience and that view is priceless! That is an amazing photo with Polly:)
It’s my fav snapshot of the week. Just managed to catch her looking. A moment later she was turned around.
Nina
Sounds like the best volunteer job ever! I’d really love to spend time in the San Juan islands, and this looks like a wonderful way to do it. Halfway through your post I began plotting in my mind how we could make this experience work for us :)Enjoy the rest of your month!
Plot away, plot away…we definitely recommend the experience 🙂
Nina
Spent lots of time on Orcas years ago. Marvelous place, great job you landed. Touched with a little envy and some good memories fired off by your great pictures.
I’m surprised by how big this island is and how much there is to do/see here. Didn’t really (fully) understand that until we came here.
Nina
Now that sounds like a great job and an excellent location!
It’s a completely unique location, no doubt.
Nina
The location is magical and the set up for the beast is perfect – loving the job, and especially the people who visit, is a huge bonus! I’ve never done a “teaching” gig where I didn’t learn a lot in return, and I love hearing the excitement in your “voice” about your wonderful experience. The time is going to fly by way too fast here 🙂
It’s funny we often get asked if we’re teachers. In another life I think I would have enjoyed that job. Sharing knowledge is always a very interactive experience.
Nina
What a great find, Nina. For all the years I’ve lived around here, I have not been to Orcas Island so not to the tower either. I do agree that it more closely resembles a Midievel defence tower than a lighthouse, but a very cool structure in a very cool setting.
On ferry reimbursements, is that for the roundtrip ride to the island for the hosting only, or does it apply to day trips you may choose on your days off?
The reimbursement is only for the roundtrip to host. Anything you do on your own time is up to you. That said, once you’re on the islands going between them is super cheap. You can walk-on between islands for free or take a car for only $26.50 (roundtrip).
Nina
Besides free inter-island walk-ons, you can also take bikes inter-island for free!
I visited the San Juan Islands several years ago. Loved Orcas and the top of the mountain. Didn’t have my bike but I took the ferry to Lopez Island and rented a bike. The whole visit was a great experience.
During my cycling days we used to spend weekends exploring different San Juan Islands. It’s so relaxed and easy up there.
There are resident pods of orcas that travel constantly between Vancouver Island and WA coast. Hopefully you’ll get to see them at some point during your month. If not, and you’re passing thru Anacortes there are 2 companies that offer whale watching … it’s about $90 for a 10-5pm outing. Wonderful scenery and great wildlife sightings. Look forward to hearing about your month! Enjoy!
We managed to spot one of the three resident pods just this week. Super exciting!
Nina
Boy, you sure do come up with some awesome gigs!
We work hard to find them, but yes…we do get some awesome gigs 🙂
Nina
I am loving all the pics and entries on your blog as you do the Northwest. Have been to all of the places in our RV. The people and the scenery almost become part of your skin. I knew exactly where you would be parked on Mt. Constitution..so cool. We went up three times for my husband to get just the right picture…the weather wasn’t cooperating for him. A trip to Orcas Island Pottery is worth it..even if you don’t purchase. The area is so pretty, it is not just a shop, rather a working house, garden and whimsical footpath. Thank you so much for the wonderful posts. If you are returning via Anacortes, do the Tommy Thompson bike trail, a lot over water and so well maintained..great fun.
We will definitely be hitting the potteries on one of our days off. I gather pottery is a long-standing tradition on Orcas…and it doesn’t hurt that the shop just happens to be in the direction of the island brewery 🙂
Nina
Love the door shot! Oh and the others of course!
Is the summit area off-limits to night hikers/bikers after the gate is closed? How far is your campsite from the tower?
Yes, once the gate is closed the area is off-limits. It’s day use only. Now there’s really nothing to stop a determined hiker if they wanted to do the trail at night, but it’s a pretty tough hike up (both in mileage and elevation) and I can’t imagine it would be a common thing. We’ve never seen anyone here once the gate is shut. At this time of year sunset is late so the gate closes around 9pm. The ranger drives up to round everyone up and get the mountain cleared before she closes the bottom gate.
As for your second question we’re a few hundred yards from the tower and summit. It takes me less than a minute to walk there.
Nina
I am so happy for you, Nina! I always enjoy your posts, but never comment. We are full time RVers staying in Sequim right now, so I was following this journey with baited breath trying to figure out where you were headed. I never would have guessed, but this location and job fits you guys (including Polly) perfectly. Enjoy!
Oh have fun in Sequim! We really loved that area. Our RV buddies Metamorphosis Road (in my blog roll) are hanging there for the month, so if you see them give them my regards.
Nina
This sounds like a fabulous volunteer gig. Now, if I could get Terry to tackle the mountain with the rig! The views are breathtaking and having so much time to yourselves sounds so inviting. Although I love all the photos, my very favorite is Polly taking in the view. As for the storytelling part of the job, right up your alley Nina! 🙂
Yeah, I could see Terry being a tad worried about the mountain drive, although you guys have a smaller rig now don’t you? The storytelling is fun!
Nina
what a great post…I love Orcas Island although we did not get to where you are…we did kayak around the island though… and your views are to die for…enjoy
This is a GREAT place to Kayak. So many hidden coves and beaches to visit. Not sure if we’ll make it out while we’re here, but we’ll be hiking as many spots as we can.
Nina
That place needs a Monte Python re enactment festival! (Hey, Monte Python was made up so the festival can be also!) Lovely post as usual, Mt. Constitution, its now on the map!
Indeed…the French Taunt!!! One of the best Monty Python skits ever “chercher la vache!!”
Nina
What an absolutely amazing place to be, except for the drive up maybe. After I retire I’ll consider interpretive volunteering, somewhere.
It would be a perfect fit for you Gaelyn, especially with all your experience as a ranger.
Nina
I had to laugh at your conversation with the interviewer, it never ceases to amaze me that people think no-one wants to camp alone. We have done a lot of travelling in the Australian outback and get very annoyed when people have thousands of hectares to choose from to camp, and they choose “RIGHT” next to us. We are in Pinto Lake CA right now and you can hear the conversations of your neighbour – we are packed in so close! but it is a nice spot and only 70F, so we can’t complain.
Indeed. What is it about boondocking moochers? The ones that camp RIGHT next to you out in the boonies even though there are acres of open land? I’ve noticed this from our own travels and it never ceases to amaze me. Right there with you on that one.
Nina
That’s awesome, glad you get to enjoy and share these adventures!
I can sense you are totally in heaven, literally and figuratively!
Just saw your blog. We want to do a lighthouse next year. We volunteered at the visitor center at English Camp on San Juan Island last year for 6 weeks. It was awesome too. Same kind of accommodations. The islands are truly magical.
Oh what a cool spot!! Didn’t know they offered volunteering over there. Did you take your RV? Get full hookups? Were ferry costs paid?
Lighthouses are wonderful. I have lots of info on lighthouse hosting in my “volunteer” section. So, do read there for more.
Nina
We have been volunteering in state parks for eight years and love it. Northern New Mexico mtns is our favorite. Three parks on Texas, One in Georgia, Two in Florida. Always great sites and not much work required. We like to move around not staying in the same area year to year except New Mexico. Best advice we can give get out more don’t lock yourself into one area.
We have thought about moving to the San Juans for years; once we’re more mobile, maybe we’ll see if Mt. Constitution would be interested in us someday 🙂
I would certainly check it out. There are also camphost positions in the campground. Both are great jobs for the summer.
Nina