Popular Hikes in Skagit County
There is no greater way to experience the beauty of Skagit County than by hiking in the beauty of our natural resources. You can immerse yourself in nature as you pass mountains, forests, valleys and islands on foot, all the while exploring the lengths and depths of the ‘Magic Skagit’! Visiting the area offers endless choices for hikes with trails ranging from easy to difficult. With countless trails to choose from, each with their own unique attributes and nuances, Skagit Valley offers many possible recreational options.
The Skagit Valley provides opportunity for adventures and exploration, entertaining both families and experienced hiking enthusiasts who have a passion for recreation and conservation. Ranging from 0.5 to 22.6 miles in length, trails can be used for hiking with many available for biking as well.
The Favorite Hiking Trail
Sauk Mountain Trail
One of the most popular hiking trails in the Skagit County vicinity is the Sauk Mountain Trail near Concrete, Washington. Stretching approximate 2.5 miles out, the trail gradually climbs to about 1,000 ft. The hike also boasts inspiring views across the area over Sauk Lake, local mountains, and forests. The best time to visit is between May and October.
The popularity of this out-and-back trail tends to translate into heavy traffic on weekends, but the extra company does not spoil the scenery that surrounds you! Sauk Mountain Trails is rated as a moderately difficult trail, along which you can take your (leashed) dog. Camping along the trail is also an option for those looking to spend a little more time with nature.
The Longest Hiking Trail
Cascade Trail
At 22.6 miles point-to-point in total length, Cascade Trail is the longest hike in Skagit County. An easy-rated trail with a gradual 321 ft incline over the entire trail makes Cascade Trail suitable for all levels of hikers, regardless of experience or skill level.
Cascade Trail started out as a railway line and has been rejuvenated to become a multi-use, mostly gravel trail popular with pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians. Located near Sedro-Woolley, Washington, Cascade Trail is surrounded by beautiful wildflowers and agricultural lands that will take your breath away more than the hike will!
Intermittently along the trail are various activity options to keep you entertained all year round, and hikers are welcome to bring their dogs if they are kept on a leash. A paved parking area is accessible from Fruitdale Road and State Route 20. However, the hike can be accessed from various points along Highway 20 that stretches between Sedro-Woolley and Concrete.
Recommended Hikes for Families
Port of Skagit Pathways
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 10.2 miles
Location: Between the Bayview Business Park and Skagit Regional Airport
Facilities: Toilets and parking
This intricate network of gravel pathways winds through forests and beside wetlands around the Port of Skagit. Open to pedestrians and leashed pets, the trails are flat enough for strollers. With so many trails to choose from, the routes along the Port of Skagit are a popular place to lose yourself and explore new places!
Little Mountain Park
Difficulty: Easy to difficult
Length: 11 miles (+1.5 miles of paved road)
Location: Little Mountain Park
Facilities: Toilets, parking, and picnic area
Little Mountain Park’s network of trails covers some 517 acres of diverse terrain. With hikes boasting stunning scenery including the Western Skagit Valley, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains, Little Mount Park is truly a local gem. Two scenic lookouts near the upper parking area make for breathtaking photographic opportunities.
Northern State Recreation Area
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 6.4 miles
Location: North of State Route 20 on Helmick Road. East of Sedro-Woolley
Facilities: Toilets, parking, and picnic area
Try this trail for something different! The area is mostly flat and easily walkable, allowing visitors to focus on the historic buildings that surround them, including the Northern State Hospital and farm. There is also a great deal of wildlife such as coyote, deer, cougars, and even bears to be spotted in the wetlands or in the heart of prime elk habitat!
Geology fans can observe the alluvial fan in the South while sports fans can enjoy a game of disc golf along the course to break up the hike.
Geocaching and Letterboxing
Still can’t convince the kids to take hikes with you? Try Geocaching and Letterboxing! These treasure hunting games are simply irresistible to adults and children alike. All around Skagit County are caches of small treasures, known as Geocaches or Letterboxes. Once found, you can share your experience online, making it fun and accessible for all age groups and families – especially those with a passion for being outdoors! Before you head out, learn out more about Geocaching here: https://www.mountvernonwa.gov/733/Geocaching
If you love nature and the outdoors, Skagit County is must-visit destination! Explore the trails through untouched wilderness and enjoy the local flora and fauna. Bring your family along for a guaranteed good day out for all ages and abilities. Then enjoy the eclectic ambiance of dining in one of the many downtown Mount Vernon restaurants. If you plan on visiting for more than a day there are also plenty of overnight accommodations to choose from.