The Mountains Are Calling

The fresh scent of pine needles, clean air, cool stream water, and the squeak of the elusive pika: it's always the best time to visit the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

Explore the Mountain Loop Highway, a 52-mile route via old railways, now a scenic byway. Expect stunning alpine lakes, ghost towns, towering timbers, and sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains #TruePNW style.

Check out the resources section below for information on passes, offline navigation, and tips for recreating responsibly.

Note: the Mountain Loop Highway is closed seasonally in winter. Check here for up-to-the-minute closure dates.

#truePNW

Your PNW Mountain Weekend Starts Here

Nestled in the foothills of the North Cascades, Granite Falls is the southern gateway to the scenic Mountain Loop Highway and is the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventures.

This is your destination for fishing, hiking, and camping. Fuel up with breakfast at Lyla’s Cafe, specializing in brunchy pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Need camping supplies or permits? Your best bet is one block away at the Ace Hardware. The nearby Granite Falls Historical Museum offers a look into the mining and timber felling history of the area. On your way out of town, stop at the I.G.A. to stock your cooler. There aren’t any hotels in this neck of the woods, so AirBnB cabins or camping are your best bets. The scent of the evergreens, views of snowy peaks (yes, even in summer)... that’s the life. Enjoy the view and the starry night skies! The coming day will bring you a full PNW summer hiking experience.

Outdoor Adventures in the PNW

Our neck of the woods is full of alpine lakes, waterfalls, mountain peaks, switchbacks and every type of trail in between. Climb to a fire lookout or take a plunge into a crystal-clear river.

Outdoor activities are abundant in Snohomish County, WA. Whether your jam is skiing, swimming snowboarding, picnicking, rock climbing, kayaking, river rafting, fishing, or hiking... we've got you covered with 2,000 square miles of Pacific Northwest wonderland waiting to be explored.

Find our favorite adventures by following us on social @seattlenorthcountry

Explore the Mountain Loop

Arlington | Darrington | Granite Falls

Resources for Recreating Responsibly

Recreating Responsibly is more than a reminder to stay on designated trails, to pack out what we pack in, or to minimize human impact on our natural resources and surroundings. To us, it’s a commitment – some might say an obligation – to preserve and protect, repair and restore, and to leave Mother Nature in a better state than we found it. It’s a way of life for those of us who call Snohomish County home, and we ask and expect the same from those who visit. Please enjoy responsibly!

Thank You

OUTDOOR BEST PRACTICES

10 OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS

The Mountain Loop Tour App

Download the “Mountain Loop Tour” from the App Store or Google Play. It covers trailhead information, campgrounds, historic sites, and other attractions on the Mountain Loop and will provide geo-alerts and driving directions, even when there is no cell service.

Pro Tip: many areas on the Mountain Loop have limited or no cell phone service, so download the app before you go.

Snohomish County Hiking Guide

A guide to some of the best hikes in the PNW. Hikes on National Forest lands require a Northwest Forest Pass at the trailhead. Be sure to purchase before you hit the trail. Hikes on State Park lands require a Discover Pass. These are good at all state parks, DNR lands, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife properties. Purchase online here.

Stories From the Mountain Loop

Endless adventure awaits. Get local insights on scenic hikes, where to find great eats, the best places to get "lost" for a few days, mountain culture, and much, much more by exploring these great reads.