Welcome Table of Contents

Something amazing happens in the spring and summer in the Skykomish and Snohomish River Valleys. The sun peeks out from behind the clouds, illuminating the valleys below and shining light on what makes our communities special.

In Lake Stevens, the Lake Stevens Rowing Club and North Cascades Crew bring the town’s namesake body of water to life with thrilling competitions. Things are a little more leisurely in Snohomish, where folks stroll along the Snohomish River trail or take in the view from one of the many eateries perched above the river.

And while you might not want to count on seeing the sun every single day – this is the Pacific Northwest, after all – you should still keep your head up. In Monroe, migrating Vaux’s Swifts return to the same elementary school chimney every year to rest on their journey south. Meanwhile, the Upper Sky Valley plays host to climbers and boulderers seeking challenges in the backcountry.

No matter where you look—from the shores of our rivers to the peaks of our mountains— natural wonders abound in the Skykomish and Snohomish River Valleys.

Welcome,

Mayor Steven Yarbrough, Gold Bar

Mayor Norm Johnson, Index

Mayor Brett Gailey, Lake Stevens

Mayor Geoffrey Thomas, Monroe

Mayor Henry Sladek, Skykomish

Mayor Linda Redmon, Snohomish

Mayor Russell Wiita, Sultan

Lake Stevens

4 Two dedicated rowing clubs brave the Pacific Northwest weather to perfect their strokes.

8 A hidden treasure at the bottom of Lake Stevens; the mystery of the Train in the Lake.

9 Learn about The Lake Stevens Monster that is nestled in the hills of a quiet Lake Stevens neighborhood.

Snohomish

12 The history of Snohomish can be traced along the Snohomish River. Step back in time with Taylor Russell of SnohomishWalks to learn about the history of the Snohomish River and what role it plays in today’s world.

16 For the first time in over 100 years, salmon have easy access to the most pristine habitat of the Snohomish River basin – thanks to a partnership between the Tulalip Tribes and City of Snohomish to remove a decommissioned dam.

18 Sourwoods, sequoias, and beeches, oh my! Grab a map and hit the Snohomish Historic District for a tour of the community’s beloved trees.

Monroe

22 The Vaux’s Swifts migrate to roost in the Frank Wagner Elementary School chimney and light up the Monroe sky with their dancing wings.

26 Lord Hill Park boasts 32 miles of multiuse, all natural trails. Come prepared to explore the vast trail system.

27 Seeking water recreation? Access the Skykomish River and Lake Tye all within the vicinity of Monroe.

Sky Valley

30 Send it! Load up your chalk, ropes, and crash pads and get ready to climb to new heights and conquer the boulders in the Upper Sky Valley.

34 Slow down on the Sultan River! Celebrate the age-old return of the salmon and learn about Chief Tsuel’ted’s legacy in the Skykomish River Valley.

36 Picture this! Capture the spectacular beauty of the Sky Valley and embark on a journey not to be forgotten.