SAN JUAN ISLANDS

The glaciers that covered northwest Washington approximately15 millions years ago created the San Juan Archipelago between the mainland and Vancouver Island. As part of this archipelago the San Juan consist of 172 islands ranging in size from small rocky islets to Orcas Island with its 57 square miles of picturesque bays and steep forested ridges.
Spanish captain Francisco Eliza charted and named the island in 1791, 16 years after a previous expedition discovered them. In 1792 Capt. George Vancouver claimed the island for Britain and in 1841 Capt. Charles Wilkes declares them part for America.

The ensuing dispute over the ownership of this island nearly brought this nations to blow during the infamous pig war on 1859, in which a stray British pig in an America potato patch. The opposing sides occupy the island for 13 years, but the conflict was solved peacefully through arbitration by Germany Kaiser Wilhelm who ruled in the favor of United States what remains that America and British fort are now part of San Juana Island national historical.
Fidalgo, Lopez, orcas and San Juan Islands are the largest and most populated. San Juan Islands National wildlife refuge compromises 48 of the remaining rocks and islands.
The San Juan Islands contains more bald eagles than any other region in the 48 states. Great horned owls, tufted puffins, and variety of other birds and mammals inhabit the island; salmon, seals, dolphins, and orcas thrive in the waters.
Recreation opportunity abound boating swimming, scuba diving, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and camping are among the main activities,
It wasn’t a tour if you dint visit the San Juan Island

Posted in: America,Continent,Natural Attractions