Basecamp for Outdoor Adventure in Darrington, Washington

Whether you’re into hiking, biking, fishing, birding, snowmobiling, or climbing, Darrington is for doers. And after a big day of doing, you can rest assured that Darrington has plenty of options for refueling and retreating. Grab your boots, bike, bows, or paddles and meet us in Darrington for some fresh air and fun.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Mountain Loop Highway – A beautiful byway through the heart of the North Cascades

Darrington is one of the many amazing destinations along the Mountain Loop Highway. With 54-miles of meandering twists and turns through the rural, urban, and wild stretches of Snohomish County and the North Cascades, it’s the perfect setting for daytrip or car camping. We’ve even put together a couple of Mountain Loop itineraries to help you curate an epic weekend trip or a day-long cruise. No matter how you loop the loop, you can’t go wrong.

28311 Mountain Loop (Best-known entry in Granite Falls, WA)

North Mountain – A mountain biker’s paradise for all levels of expertise

Mountain bikers rejoice as the North Mountain bike trails feature 14.6 miles of year-round trail riding fun. With a variety of courses and terrains fit for beginner, intermediate, and expert riders, you can take your riding experience to new height among sweeping views of Whitehorse Mountain and the Stillaguamish Valley.

N Mountain Rd

Northwest Forest – Hike the wilderness trails of the PNW national forest

If you’re looking to explore the true wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, Darrington is a stone’s throw away from several hikes in the Northwest Forest. You’re sure to find a hike that suits your desired length and skill set.Note: Many of the hikes on National Forest lands require a parking pass. Do yourself a favor and review the 10 essentials before your hike. And do us all a favor by recreating responsibly and leaving no trace.

Darrington Ranger District Office - 1405 Emens Ave N

LODGING

Whitehorse Regional Park and Campground – Camp under the stars surrounded by mountains and natural beauty

Take your camping experience to the next level at Whitehorse Regional Park and Campground. Among the 30 sites that provide scenic mountain views, campers can choose to set up shop in in a tent, an RV, or at a reserved equestrian site. The campground has proximity to tons great natural wonders like the Whitehorse Trail, North Mountain Bike Trails, and more.

46609 N Mountain Road

North Mountain Fire Lookout – A unique mountaintop lodging experience at 3,956 feet

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stay overnight in a cabin that’s perched atop a tower at the peak of a mountain? North Mountain Fire Lookout provides an adventurous lodging experience for those who want to truly connect with the local history of the Stillaguamish and Sauk River Valleys. The lookout was built in 1965 as one of the state’s original fire lookouts and is now one of the few that offers lodging--and it’s the only one within driving distance. Climb the tower’s three stories of steps to find a cozy 14’x14’ space with a 360-degree panoramic view of the North Cascades. As you can imagine, availability goes quickly, but if you find yourself lucky enough to get an opening, you’re in for a treat!

N. 48, W. 60263, 31817 WI-121 (Darrington, WA)

A Shepherd’s Retreat – Make yourself at home on a homestead at the foot of Whitehorse Mountain

Enjoy a slice of the simple life with a relaxing retreat on a sheep farm in the North Cascades. This vast and scenic farmland features one of the last remaining historic homesteads in Snohomish County, and it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring some of the great hikes in the Darrington area.

38423 SR 530 NE (in Arlington, WA)
Visit the property’s website or rental listing for more information.

PNW River Cabin – A mountain retreat along the Sauk River

Bring your dream of living in a cozy Pacific Northwest cabin to life with a stay among the many trails, mountains, and waterways of the North Cascades. This secluded getaway includes a wood-burning fireplace, a hot tub, and a riverside fire pit. Discover the natural beauty of Darrington from the comfort of a charming cabin in the woods.

See rental listing or NW Pads for more details

Tiny Cabin at Thirsty Creek Farm – An off-the-grid cabin in the forest surrounded by natural beauty

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to make your home away from home at the foot of the North Cascades, this tiny cabin in the Stillaguamish River valley near Darrington is your best bet. The cabin is a short drive to the national park and forest lands, and it offers easy access to nearby hikes, and water recreation.

See rental listing for more details

DINING

Burger Barn – A traditional small-town burger joint that delivers big taste

When you visit Darrington, chances are you’ll be moving A LOT, which means you will need some good sustenance. Get a quick bite to eat at Burger Barn, which has perfected the art of casual American fare such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes. The food is simple, but it will satisfy even the biggest hunger—and it’ll definitely hit the spot after your big adventure.

1020 Emens Ave N

River Time Brewing – An award-winning independent brewery where the beer flows like rivers

Reward your conquests of nature with a tasty crafter beer at River Time Brewing. The expansive list of regular and seasonal beers on tap and its sizeable food menu easily make River Time a favorite among locals and visitors alike. We recommend the Washington Beer Award-winning Life Changer Scottish Ale.

660 Emens Ave

Moe's Darrington – A coffee shop that works overtime as diner, bar, and entertainment hub

Moe’s is officially designated as a coffee house, but depending on the time of day you visit, you might find yourself among the crowds aptly fit for a bar, cocktail lounge, diner, or outdoor concert. Moe’s is a jack of all trades that has something for everyone. Do yourself a favor and show up for one of the outdoor live music shows on the mini stage that’s set to the backdrop of the North Cascades. It’s magical.

1080 Seeman St

Squatch Tacos – Tacos so good they’ll make you believer

Whether or not you believe in the beloved Pacific Northwest creature known as Sasquatch, you’ll discover the hype around Squatch Tacos is real. This mobile taco truck that operates in Darrington is a local favorite, but its sightings are almost as rare as those of Bigfoot, so keep an eye out!

Mobile taco truck

GEAR UP FOR ADVENTURE

Bespoke Cafe – Fuel up and gear up at the base of the North Cascades

Before you hit the North Mountain biking trails, fine tune your adventure at Bespoke Cafe. You can grab a coffee and a pastry or snack to get your fueled up, and it’s the best—and only—spot in town to score any last-minute gear or accessories before you ride.

1180 Cascade St

Ready to explore all that Darrington, WA has to offer as your basecamp to outdoor adventure? Check out some related Darrington content below for even more destinations, insights, and fun. Your gateway to endless outdoor recreation begins in Darrington. Please remember to recreate responsibly!