Kick off your Cascade Loop vacation in Seattle NorthCountry, with 2,000 square miles of mountains and rivers, cities and towns, farmlands and coastlines in Snohomish County. Look for three distinct environments in this part of the Loop: coastal communities, river valleys, and urban centers.
The elk rut begins around the time of the autumnal equinox in mid-September, and lasts a month. During this time, male elk, called bulls, will challenge each other for the… Read More >>>>
There are few animals in the wild as thrilling to see as a whale. Here in Washington state, we are fortunate enough to be on the migration route for several… Read More >>>>
The Cascade Loop Scenic Byway spans the east and west sides of Washington State's Cascade Mountain Range, and photo opportunities along the route are varied and spectacular, covering all interests… Read More >>>>
The coastal community of Mukilteo is located on the shores of the Salish Sea. Walk the beach, treat your sweetheart to a seaside picnic, snap photos of Washington State Ferries, and, of course, don’t miss the always photogenic lighthouse while at Mukilteo’s iconic Lighthouse Park.
If you brought your four-legged friends, be sure to take them to the Tails and Trails Japanese Gulch Dog Park -- 3/4 acre fully fenced, gated, off-leash area with agility equipment (1301 5th St., Mukilteo)
Great dining options, especially if you love seafood, with amazing views over the water!
Travel north to the Cascade Loop's largest metropolitan area, tucked between the Salish Sea and the Cascade mountains.
Everett is a vibrant urban center known for its wealth of international cuisine and funky downtown activities. (So many take-out options!) Love pop culture? Funko—one of the leading pop culture collectibles creators—is headquartered here. The building’s exterior is an awesome spot to snag a fun selfie and, of course, the souvenirs here are pretty epic, too.
Everett’s growing waterfront is another must-see with the largest public marina on the West Coast, plus outstanding seafood dining, and lots of wildlife viewing, from the typical seabirds, to heron, osprey (summer), and harbor seals.
Plan a few hours to take the kiddos to the newly expanded Imagine Children's Museum, where they firmly believe that Playing is Learning!
A summertime favorite is a trip on the passenger ferry to Jetty Island. It’s a two-mile-long, human-made island that acts as a ‘breakwater’ for the Everett Marina. Besides its functional purpose, it's also an excellent beach -- Reservations are recommended on the ferry. Bring your own drinking water! The island is open to visitors year-round, but you need your own water transport during the off-season.
Continuing your journey, head east toward Highway 2 along the Snohomish River Valley, passing through emerald farmlands and into Historic Downtown Snohomish. Snohomish is listed on both the state and national registries of historic places and is a treasure trove of antique dealers, boutique shops, and wine tasting rooms, all within a six-block area.
The historic district is surrounded by stately Victorian and Craftsman-style homes built around the turn of the 20th century. There are also many historic buildings, including the Blackman Museum and Waltz Building, which houses the Snohomish Historical Society, as well as the Alcazar Theater, and the infamous Oxford Saloon (see our Haunted Places Blog for more info!).
The River Front Trail follows the Snohomish River and is ideal for bird watching with benches and tables perfect for a picnic lunch. Anglers will find many access areas to the river throughout the area.
Book a stay with our Preferred Lodging Partner: Snohomish Inn!
Just 10 miles east along Highway 2, Monroe is a regional hub for outdoor enthusiasts and racing fans! Venture off the highway to explore the unique shops in Historic Downtown including breweries and locally made treasures.
Take your pup to Wiggly Field Dog Park. Grab lunch and head to Al Borlin Park for a riverside picnic or utilize Monroe’s numerous Skykomish River access points to enjoy kayaking, rafting, fishing and more. For more outdoor recreation, enjoy a stroll around Lake Tye, swim in the lake, rent a kayak or paddleboard during the summer or visit the street-style skateboard park.
Check out Evergreen Speedway at Evergreen State Fairgrounds, which features NASCAR and specialty events.
Monroe is home to the Evergreen State Fair every late August through Labor Day weekend -- a 10 day event that features great musical entertainment, exhibits, animal barns, and family fun!
