Skykomish & Snohomish River Valleys

What do bigfoot, a state fair, race cars, a ski resort, and antique shops have in common? All can be found (ok, maybe not bigfoot) along these river valleys, which stretch along Highway 2, part of the Cascade Scenic Loop, from sea-level high into the mountains.

Score some vinyl records, take some turns at Stevens Pass, soak in natural hot springs, explore a trail, or spend a few days in a cozy, riverside cabin. Oh, and did we mention that this area hosts one of the largest outdoor EDM festivals in the Northwest? The Skykomish and Snohomish River Valleys offer an experience rich slice of small-town Americana #TruePNW style.

MONROE

Monroe, WA is a picturesque community nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains on the banks of the Skykomish River.

Conveniently located at the intersection of U.S Highway 2 and State Route 522 just 30 minutes from Seattle Paine Field International Airport and about 45 minutes from Seattle, Monroe is a scenic jumping-off point for the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway, as well endless outdoor adventures along Hwy 2 towards Stevens Pass. Venture off the beaten path, and you will discover that Monroe is full of hidden gems. Its historic, walkable downtown offers dining, antiques, and boutique shopping. Monroe is home to many outdoor activities and sporting events, the Evergreen State Fair Park, the Evergreen Speedway, as well 90 acres of riverfront providing easy access to the Skykomish River.

See More
SNOHOMISH

Listed on both the Washington State and National Register of Historic Places, Snohomish is the oldest and best preserved city in Seattle NorthCountry.

The city's historic district boasts many beautiful Victorian and Arts & Crafts-era homes built around the turn of the century. The annual Snohomish Historic Homes Tour is a must for those who appreciate this period architecture. Step back in time at the Blackman House Museum for a glimpse of life at the turn-of-the-century in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors will enjoy strolling among the city's late 19th- and early 20th-century architecture and stopping at the delightful variety of charming shops and popular restaurants. Snohomish is also known as the "Antique Capital of the Northwest”, with over 350 dealers offering a seemingly endless array of quality antiques and collectibles.

See More
UPPER SKY VALLEY

A valley full of experiences. Welcome to Skykomish, Index, Gold Bar, and Sultan, a region of communities loving life off the beaten path.

Arrive on US SR2 between the towns of Sultan and Stevens Pass and you’ve entered the Upper Skykomish River Valley. Here in the tall trees, waterfalls, and granite rock faces is where river, climbing, and hiking guides teach and share what they love. This is where seekers of green space find miles of US Forest Service trails, meet friends, and find silence. Camp neighbors and night-sky stargazers swap stories about the days adventure. Stroll through any of the historic downtowns and discover locally owned vintage shops, boutiques, tucked away restaurants, and coffee shops. Be sure to stop by the the Sky Valley Visitor’s Center on Main St, in downtown Sultan for trail passes, maps, and the inside scoop.

See More
Climbing in the Sky Valley

Looking For Trip Inspiration?

Let the river valleys whisk you from sea to sky and everything in between. Discover history brought to life with a brush stroke, find a vintage treasure, take in the views from a fire lookout, or experience first hand the harmony that can be found at the intersection of form and function.

Summertime Shreds: Wakeboarding Champs Flock to Monroe
Sultan Shindig Celebrates a Rip-Roaring Logging Heritage
Monroe Comes Alive with Renaissance Faire
Following the Iron Goat Trail: The Tragic History of the Wellington Disaster
Explore the Skykomish and Snohomish River Valleys

Lake Stevens | Monroe | Snohomish | Upper Sky Valley

Seattle Paine Field International Airport (PAE) | Evergreen State Fair Park | Evergreen Equestrian Park | Evergreen Speedway | Sky Valley Visitor's Center | Monroe Visitor's Center

Cascade Scenic Loop | Stevens Pass and Nordic Center | Heybrook Lookout | Lake Tye | Outdoor Adventure Center | Monroe Historical Museum | Skydive Snohomish | Hot Air Balloons | The Reptile Zoo | Corn Mazes | Antiques | Espresso Chalet

View Map Larger

More to Discover

From the goodness of plowed soil to the streets of small towns; from riverside paths to the heights of fire lookouts -- the river valleys of Seattle NorthCountry fork into trails that lead to wonder. Goat yoga, EDM festivals, and hot air balloons provide memorable routes to experience the #TruePNW.

Explore Downtown Snohomish
Melty 2020
Pumpkin Picking at Bob's Corn & Pumpkin Farm
Holiday Tree Farms of Snohomish County
Heybrook Lookout | Best Time to Visit is All the Time
Goat Yoga is a Thing, You Need to Do It