Afterglow Vista McMillin Mausoleum
An atmospheric, open-air rotunda mausoleum nestled in a wooded cemetery on San Juan Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful solitude
Afterglow Vista McMillin Mausoleum
Best Time
Peaceful solitude
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An atmospheric, open-air rotunda mausoleum nestled in a wooded cemetery on San Juan Island.
"So cool and beautiful! I would love to play D&D here."
Wear Comfy Shoes
The path is uneven and goes through a cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Site
It's a memorial. Be quiet and mindful of the history. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rotunda
Center of Afterglow Vista
An open-air rotunda with a large limestone table and stone chairs, each holding ashes.
+1
Wooded Cemetery Path
Approach to the Mausoleum
A serene walk through a wooded cemetery, adding to the atmospheric and slightly spooky vibe.
Masonic Architecture
The Mausoleum Structure
Intricate architecture inspired by John McMillin's life, including his Templar affiliations.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes
The path is uneven and goes through a cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Site
It's a memorial. Be quiet and mindful of the history. :pray:
Look for Wildlife
You might spot deer on your walk! :deer:
Check the Lore
Featured on @lorepodcast! :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes
The path is uneven and goes through a cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Site
It's a memorial. Be quiet and mindful of the history. :pray:
Look for Wildlife
You might spot deer on your walk! :deer:
Check the Lore
Featured on @lorepodcast! :microphone:
Open-Air Rotunda
Dress for the weather, as it's exposed to the elements. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Afterglow Vista for its unique beauty, atmospheric setting, and intriguing history. The walk through the wooded cemetery is a highlight, adding to the serene and slightly spooky experience. While not accessible for wheelchairs, the site offers a memorable and contemplative stop for those exploring San Juan Island.
"So cool and beautiful! I would love to play D&D here."
Denycia Haley
"I went by myself for an early morning walk through the small cemetery in the woods to get here. It was close to town and not too far for the average walker. The walk in the woods is so peaceful. The structure is breathtaking.
It is not accessible for wheelchairs."
Greg K
"The path to get to it was very interesting since we were going through some gravestone. We were at awe when we finally got to the place. So glad we found it and explored it. It was quite the drive to get to anacortes and get on the ferry going to San Juan Island but it was worth it."
Christine Noelle Tempongko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Afterglow Vista is located on San Juan Island, near Roche Harbor. You'll typically need to take a ferry to the island. The mausoleum is accessed via a path through a cemetery, so follow signs for the McMillin Mausoleum or Afterglow Vista.
While you can drive to the general vicinity of Roche Harbor, the final approach to the mausoleum is a walking path through a cemetery. Parking is available nearby, but the path itself is not suitable for vehicles.
The walk is described as short and peaceful, taking you through a wooded cemetery. It's not a strenuous hike, making it accessible for most visitors.
Public transport options on San Juan Island are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car or utilize local shuttle services if available to reach the Roche Harbor area, from where you can walk to the mausoleum.
Yes, there is parking available in the vicinity of Roche Harbor and the cemetery grounds, allowing you to access the walking path to the mausoleum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Afterglow Vista. It is a publicly accessible memorial site.
As an outdoor memorial site, Afterglow Vista is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate the surroundings and architecture.
Unfortunately, Afterglow Vista is not accessible for wheelchairs due to the uneven terrain and paths through the cemetery.
While the site is outdoors, visiting at night is not generally recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. It's best experienced during daylight hours.
Photography is generally allowed, but visitors are reminded to be respectful of the memorial nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography that might disturb the peace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the unique open-air rotunda, featuring a large limestone table surrounded by stone chairs, each representing a family member interred there.
Built in 1936 by John S. McMillin, a founder of the local limestone operation, it serves as the final resting place for him, his family, and his personal secretary. The architecture is inspired by his life and Masonic affiliations.
While often described as atmospheric and spooky, there are no confirmed reports of hauntings. The 'haunted' reputation likely stems from its unique setting and history.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the uneven paths. Dress in layers as it's an open-air site and weather can change.
There are no specific amenities like restrooms or water fountains directly at Afterglow Vista. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or in the nearby Roche Harbor area.
📸 📸 Photography
The rotunda itself offers striking architectural shots. The path through the wooded cemetery also provides atmospheric photo opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and park rules. It's best to check local ordinances or contact the San Juan Islands National Historical Park for specific guidelines before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the rotunda's scale. A standard zoom lens is versatile for the surrounding nature and details.
Yes, you can photograph the inscriptions, but do so respectfully. Remember that this is a memorial site.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides beautiful, soft light that enhances the atmospheric feel of the mausoleum and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that the paths are uneven and not wheelchair accessible, so younger children may need assistance. Emphasize the importance of respectful behavior at this memorial site. The peaceful atmosphere and potential for spotting wildlife like deer can also add to the enjoyment for younger visitors.
👻 Gothic & Dark Tourists
Many visitors find the site 'hauntingly beautiful' and highly atmospheric. The lore surrounding the mausoleum, including its mention on podcasts like Lore, further enhances its appeal. It's a place to explore, photograph, and contemplate the intersection of life, death, and art.
+1📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the scale of the rotunda, while a standard zoom can be used for details and the surrounding environment. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and the solemn nature of the location while you shoot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of John S. McMillin
+1McMillin commissioned the construction of the Afterglow Vista mausoleum in 1936, during the Great Depression. The monument was built at a considerable cost of $30,000, reflecting his desire to create a lasting and unique memorial for himself and his family. The open-air rotunda design, with its central table and individual stone chairs, was a deliberate choice to symbolize a perpetual gathering.
+1The lore surrounding Afterglow Vista also includes the story of Ada Bean, a staff member of the McMillin household. Her ashes were found in an urn by subsequent owners of Roche Harbor and are also interred within the mausoleum, highlighting the personal connections and history associated with the site.
The mausoleum's unique design and history have even been featured on podcasts like Lore, adding to its mystique. Architectural Significance and Symbolism
+1Surrounding the table are individual stone chairs, each meticulously crafted to hold the ashes of a specific family member and McMillin's secretary. This arrangement evokes a sense of a perpetual, eternal gathering, a symbolic dinner party that transcends life. The architectural style is influenced by Masonic and Templar symbolism, reflecting John S. McMillin's personal affiliations and beliefs.
The choice of an open-air rotunda also allows for a deep connection with the natural surroundings. Visitors experience the mausoleum not just as a structure, but as part of the wooded landscape. This integration of architecture and nature contributes to the site's ethereal and contemplative atmosphere, making it a memorable and thought-provoking destination.
The Experience of Visiting
Upon arrival, the open-air rotunda with its central table and stone chairs immediately captures the imagination. Visitors often express awe at the unique design and the quiet solemnity of the place. It's a spot that inspires reflection on life, death, and legacy. Some visitors even find the atmosphere so compelling that they imagine playing tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons there.
While the site is atmospheric, it's important to remember its purpose as a memorial. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, be respectful, and appreciate the history and artistry of the McMillin Mausoleum. The experience is enhanced by the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands, with potential wildlife sightings like deer adding to the charm of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit