Monroe is Your Basecamp for Outdoor Adventures

What we’re talking about here is a basecamp. Monroe, Washington is just such a place: a jumping-off point for Pacific Northwest adventure. This lesser-known city north of Seattle is the location to get supplies, make forays into the unknown, and return after a long day of voyaging to soak your feet and crawl into fresh sheets.

Want to see why the “Gateway to the Cascades” is an ideal launching pad for skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, mountain biking, and more? We got you. Here’s what you can expect.

Main Street Mountain Sports

In a region crisscrossed by mountain bike trails and blessed with winter powder, Main Street Sports offers the gear you need. This independent outfitter sells top of the line mountain bikes, skis, and snowboards, as well as all of the accessories that accompany snow and dirt sports – think helmets, gloves, goggles, and ski boots. You can feel good about supporting this small-town business. You can feel even better by crossing the street and treating yourself to a chocolatey croissant at Sky River Bakery.

A winning combo.

120 W. Main Street

Paesano’s Coffee

Coffee is a must before hitting the road for early morning adventures. Luckily, Paesano’s is just off of State Route 2 and features a drive-through window so that you can get your caffeine fix on the go. Unlike many drive-through java joints, Paesano’s offers an elevated gourmet beverage experience – they roast all of their coffee themselves locally. Bonus: they also have a coffee stand at east end of town on US-2 -- convenient! Good quality coffee that’s easy to grab? Let’s go!

14655 Fryelands Blvd SE Ste 109

Tuscano’s Italian Kitchen

Athletes know to carb up before a day of exertion. But don’t discount carbing up after a day spent being active outdoors. If you want to warm up with hot comfort food in a family-style sit-down restaurant, then take a little trip to Italy courtesy of Tuscano’s cuisine. Their authentic in-house pizza and pasta is the perfect cheesy complement to their well-curated wine selection. Ask the sommelier what’s good – you can’t go wrong with any of the selections here!

14919 N Kelsey St.

Taco trucks on Main Street


There’s something about eating al fresco while seated on a picnic table that just hits different. If you love authentic Mexican food that requires several napkins, then Monroe’s taco trucks deliver. There are several trucks, located at regular intervals along Main Street. Walk up to the window and order hot tamales, tortas, tacos, and burritos. Give it a dash of hot sauce and wash it down with a cool bottle of Mexican Coke or Jarritos beverage. That’s a slice of flavorful paradise in the Pacific Northwest.

Kadhai Indian Cuisine

What could be better than filling up on delicious pakoras, basmati rice, curries, garlic naan, chutney, and chai tea? Honestly, just thinking about it is making me hungry. Vegetarian-friendly and filled with a symphony of spices, Kadhai Indian Cuisine delivers all the flavor in a friendly, sit-down style restaurant environment.

116 E Main Street

Route 2 Taproom

Not every brewpub is kid-friendly. But Route 2 Taproom is suitable for families, meaning that you can sample local craft brews and share small plates of delicious American bar food – think nachos, tater tots, and chicken tenders – with the whole crew. Their outdoor patio is heated by firepits in the winter and offers a sunny sitting area when the summer weather hits. Perfect.

19837 State Route 2

Stevens Pass

While this Vail Resort is best known for skiing and snowboarding, it’s also the place to sled, snowshoe, cross-country ski, and (in the summer) mountain bike to your heart’s content. Stevens Pass is located just under an hour away from Monroe and it’s a direct shot on State Route 2. Snowsports are usually available November through April, but you should check the weather report for snowpack before heading out, just in case.

Hiking options along HWY 2

The Skykomish River Valley is framed by the foothills and peaks of the Central Cascade Mountains. Favorite hikes include the Heybrook Ridge fire lookout, Lake Serene, Bridal Veil Falls, Blanca Lake, and Wallace Falls. Be sure to check which day pass (if any) is required at the trailhead and take a look at our digital hiking guide to see all of your options.

Kayaking/rock climbing in Index

The tiny town of Index, WA (population ~100) is well-known for its outdoor recreation assets: the Index Town Wall for climbers, and the North Fork of the Skykomish River for kayakers. Bouldering is also a popular activity, given the giant glacial rocks scattered throughout the local forest. Index is about 20 minutes away from Monroe.

Parklands of the Skykomish River Valley

Okay, so you’re not that outdoorsy. We get you. You’d rather listen to a podcast and stroll with your dog a mile or so. No worries. Your best bets are Al Borlin Park, Lord Hill, or Flowing Lake. These local parks offer a leisurely, relaxed route with little elevation gain. Perfect for a saunter in the woods.

Stay at High Rock Castle

First of all, it’s an actual castle. Yes, you read that right. It has suits of armor, pendants, swords, flags, chandeliers, the whole deal. Rent it through AirBnB, where you can lay claim to one of their Medieval suites or a stay in the cottage. It’s a destination fit for a king or queen!

Also, it’s a great place to lodge while visiting Monroe’s famous five-weekend Renaissance Faire.

Escape to Hashtag Treehouse

Remember when you were a kid and you dreamed about having your own private treehouse? Dream no more when you visit the viral, internet-famous hashtag treehouse. It’s a modern style tiny house tucked up away in the branches of the woods. This property is 21+ for smoking reasons, is dog-friendly, and offers easy river access for chilling out.

Glamp in style at Falling Waters Gardens

Falling Waters Gardens is a glamping tent village in the Tualco Valley. Enjoy strolling the grounds at this large aquatic nursery, which is home to schools of koi fish and several brilliant peacocks. Stay in style, have a campfire, and enjoy the peace and quiet of this rural escape.

Book Your Stay Here