2025 Explore Skagit Valley by Skagit Publishing

ANACORTES

BOW-EDISON

BURLINGTON CONCRETE CONWAY

DECEPTION

NORTH

SEDRO-WOOLLEY

2025

Your guide to a special corner of Northwest Washington

SKAGIT VALLEY

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

Welcome to Skagit County

The Skagit Valley is a study in physical contrasts, with views of the Olympic Mountains rising majestically across the water to the west and the Cascade Range towering to the east. The magnificent Skagit River that runs through the valley’s core has supported people and industry for more than 10,000 years.

Mount Baker, an active snow-covered volcano, is just the closest of the towering mountains, standing as a majestic backdrop, both as a place to play and a reminder that the powerful forces of nature shaped this valley.

The rich, diverse habitats, landscapes and seascapes are magical. Beauty is everywhere, whether in the breathtaking settings of farm fields and old barns, along wooded trails with tall cedars or on the riverwalk in Mount Vernon, the valley’s largest city.

The water, hills, forests and fields are just some of

the features that make outdoor recreation a central focus here. Every season has something to offer, from skiing and hiking to rock-climbing and fishing.

For those who want to enjoy nature more quietly, there are parks, gentle trails and beaches overlooking the blue water of the Puget Sound. When it’s time to head inside, there are two casinos, numerous shopping districts and dozens of restaurants, microbreweries and taverns.

The coastal cities of Anacortes, La Conner and Edison are widely known for their marine amenities, arts communities and museums. They complement the history-rich towns of Mount Vernon and Sedro-Woolley and the bustling pace of commercefocused Burlington.

We hope you enjoy and appreciate your time in this little corner of the world; we think you will.

THINGS TO DO YEARROUND

SKAGIT VALLEY

SKAGIT FARM TO PINT PASSPORT TOUR

A weekend in the Skagit Valley provides an array of options for exploring your culinary senses. Bring a hearty appetite and save room in the car for goodies to take home. Visit skagitfarmtopint.com/skagit-farmto-pint-fest for dates and more info.

ANACORTES

 Picnic at Seafarers’ Memorial Park and watch boats coming in and out of Cap Sante Marina, or head to Causland Memorial Park a few blocks west of downtown.

 Drive to the top of Mount Erie, a lookout about 20 minutes from downtown in the center of the island.

 Check out the Anacortes

Community Forest Lands: 2,800 acres with a trail system for hikers and bicyclists. There are also trails along the waterfront, including the Tommy Thompson and Guemes Channel trails.

 See the town from above via the Cap Sante Viewpoint, just blocks from the walkable downtown business district.

BAY VIEW

 Take in the view from Bay View State Park. The 25-acre state park offers camping amenities and a trail along the bay.

 Visit the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, which features the Breazeale Interpretive Center aquarium, where visitors can see marine life in the bay up close. The center is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

BIRDSVIEW

 Have a bite at Birdsview Brewing Co. before heading up Baker Lake Road to camp, hike or boat at Baker Lake or the North Cascades.

BOW/EDISON

 Check out the eclectic art and food scene, from homemade bread to oysters from the nearby bay and live music, most notably on Saturdays.

BURLINGTON

 Explore Skagit Valley’s primary shopping district, including the historic district on Fairhaven Avenue.

 Skagit River Park features 20 soccer fields, 24 horseshoe pits, a trail and dike access for walking along the river.

CLEAR LAKE & BIG LAKE

 Visit the lake in the summer for fishing, boating and swimming.

 Play the nine-hole Overlook Golf Course with views of the lake.

CONCRETE

 Visit Silo Park to check out the iconic silos that tower over Highway 20 before visiting the quaint business district for lunch or gluten-free baked goods.

 Enjoy a film at the Concrete Theatre, which was built in 1923, and try the treats at the Act One Ice Cream Parlor, next door to the theater.

CONWAY

 Watch for birds on Fir Island. Snow geese and trumpeter swans spend winters here. Eagles and herons can be seen throughout the year. Spring is a prime time for shorebirds and songbirds.

PADILLA BAY SUNSET

FISHING ON CLEAR LAKE

GUEMES ISLAND

 Take a five-minute ferry ride from downtown Anacortes to reach this island across the channel. Trek up Guemes Mountain for a view of the neighboring San Juan Islands. The 1.2-mile hiking trail heads 550 feet to the summit.

 Visit Young’s Park, a 13-acre park next to Guemes Island Resort. The park offers picnic areas and water access.

HAMILTON

 Visit Main Street, which features a park, a public picnic area and a covered gazebo with kitchen facilities and restrooms.

LA CONNER

 See the colorful Rainbow Bridge.

 Visit local museums, including the Skagit County Historical Museum, the Museum of Northwest Art and the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum.

 Enjoy La Conner’s Sculpture Exhibit, which changes each year.

LYMAN

 Explore the Cascade Trail, a popular route for walkers, joggers and bicyclists that passes through town with access to a park featuring barbecue pits and a horseshoe pit.

 Stop by the historic Minkler Mansion at 8405 S. Main St., built in 1891 by pioneer mill owner and statesman Birdsey Minkler.

GUEMES ISLAND FERRY

RAINBOW BRIDGE, LA CONNER

MARBLEMOUNT

 Check out Glacier Peak Resort and Winery, which offers tent camping, RV hookups and cabins. Shuttles run to destinations for fishing, hiking or kayaking.

MOUNT VERNON

 From classes teaching the language of birds to theater jazz course for kids, the City of Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation Department offers something for almost everyone. Check anc.apm.activecommunities. com/mvparks/home for schedules and registration.

 Walk along the river. Beginning at Lions Park, the Skagit Riverwalk continues south along the east bank of the river in front of downtown.

 The downtown area with its quaint shops and restaurants is also the location of its historic Lincoln Theatre, built in 1926. Live performances and movies are held there.

 Visit Little Mountain Park for stunning views of the Skagit Valley, the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Mountains.

NEWHALEM/DIABLO

 Abundant waterfalls spill from the North Cascades mountains. The popular Gorge Creek Falls is about 3 miles east of Newhalem along Highway 20.

 Take the interpretive Trail of the Cedars nature walk. The flat loop trail is 0.3 miles, starting with a walk across the Skagit River on a moving bridge.

 Enjoy Seattle City Light’s Diablo Lake boat tour in the summer, taking in the scenery and learning about wildlife, as well as the man-made wonders that provide hydroelectric power.

ROCKPORT

 The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center at Howard Miller Steelhead Park is open weekends in December and January, your best chance at seeing eagles feast on salmon.

 Anglers and boaters can launch from Howard Miller Steelhead Park, which also features a playground, RV hookups and tent camping sites.

 Visit Rockport State Park, which offers old-growth forest and access to climb to the top of Sauk Mountain.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY

 Stroll by the wood carvings and murals downtown, many of which can be found along Metcalf Street.

 The Sedro-Woolley Museum features artifacts from the early days of the rival logging and mining towns of Sedro and Woolley.

 Visit the Northern State Recreation Area just northeast of town off Highway 20. The 651-acre regional park offers hiking and biking trails, as well as a disc-golf course.

 Picnic at Riverfront Park, which has two shelters with barbecue pits, a camping area and a boat launch.

TRIBAL COMMUNITIES

 The Skagit Casino Resort is adjacent to Interstate 5 north of Burlington and operated by the Upper Skagit Tribe.

 The Swinomish Casino & Lodge is on Highway 20 heading into Anacortes. The nearby Swinomish Golf Links, an 18-hole course, is also operated by the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.

 The Fidalgo Bay RV Resort at the entrance to Anacortes is operated by the Samish Indian Nation and offers RV sites and water view cabins.

Experience

HAMMER HERITAGE SQUARE, SEDRO-WOOLLEY

F ARMS & FIELDS

Farming is the heart and soul of the Skagit Valley. While it is well known for its colorful tulip fields each spring, the rich soil here produces more than 90 crops, ranging from potatoes to spinach seed to berries.

As you drive through the Skagit Valley, tune your car radio to 1630 AM to hear “InFARMation” to learn more.

F ARMS & FIELDS

FARMERS MARKETS

Farmers markets featuring fresh Skagit Valley produce run spring through fall. Most have food and entertainment.

ANACORTES FARMERS MARKET

 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays

 Summer market: 1st Saturday in May to last Saturday in October

 Winter market: Second Saturday, January through April

 Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave.

 anacortesfarmersmarket.org

CONCRETE SATURDAY MARKET

 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, late May to early September

 Concrete Community Center, 45821 Railroad St.

 Email concretesaturdaymarket1@gmail.com

 concretesaturdaymarket.com

ISLAND HOSPITAL FARM STAND

 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, mid-June to mid-September

 Island Hospital rose garden courtyard, 1211 24th St., Anacortes

 EMAIL: _farmstand@islandhospital.org.

MOUNT VERNON FARMERS MARKET

Opening Day

 Mark your calendar for May 17, 2025!

 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, May to October

 Riverwalk Plaza, Downtown Mount Vernon 4th of July

 Come celebrate the “4th of July Bash” on Saturday June 28th at Riverwalk Plaza. Pie Eating Contest, Food, Activities and more. Kids Day

 Happening June 7th! Great kids activities, crafts, and more!

Salmon Day at the Market

 Come learn about salmon conservation with fun activities September 6th!  mountvernonfarmersmarket.org

SEDRO-WOOLLEY FARMERS MARKET

 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, late May to midOctober

 Hammer Heritage Square, Ferry and Metcalf streets

 sedrowoolleyfarmersmarket.com

T ULIP FESTIVAL

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival has been an annual event for over three decades, famous throughout the world.

The event isn’t a single event at all. It’s more of a self-driving tour of fields with a variety of connected locations and events to visit along the way. Mother Nature decides exactly when the flower fields will bloom, but the festival starts April 1 and lasts through the month.

Festival events usually include the Kiwanis Salmon Barbecue daily at Hillcrest Park in Mount Vernon; the Tulip Festival Street Fair in downtown Mount Vernon; the Tulip Run; and the Garage Sale at the Skagit County Fairgrounds in Mount Vernon. There are also art shows and wine tastings and more.

For updates and information, visit the festival’s web site at tulipfestival. org or call 360-428-5959.

T ULIP FESTIVAL

GARDEN ROSALYN

 16648 Jungquist Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273

 gardenrosalyn.com

Located in the heart of Skagit Valley with an impressive view of the Cascade Mountains, Garden Rosalyn showcases beautiful tulip fields during the tulip festival season (April) and dahlias between May and early fall.

TULIP TOWN

 15002 Bradshaw Road, west of Mount Vernon

 tuliptown.com

 360-424-8152

Walk through tulip fields. Enjoy art, activities, gift shop and more.

TULIP VALLEY FARMS

 15245 Bradshaw Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273

 tulipvalley.com

The Only U-Pick Tulip Field at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival!

People come from around the world to Skagit Valley in the spring. We can’t wait to meet you.

WASHINGTON BULB’S ROOZENGAARDE

 15867 Beaver Marsh Road, west of Mount Vernon

 tulips.com

 360-424-8531

RoozenGaarde is open all year, but a few acres of tulips are dedicated to display during the festival. Features include a gift shop, picnic areas, food, espresso and restrooms.

W INERIES & BREWERIES

BREWERIES

ANACORTES BREWERY- ROCKFISH GRILL

 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes

 360-588-1720

 anacortesrockfish.com

BARLEY& BREW TAPROOM

 102 Woodworth St, Sedro-Woolley

 (360) 855-0560

 www.barleyandbrew.com

BASTION BREWING CO.

 12529 Christianson Road, Anacortes

 360-399-1614

 bastionbrewery.com

BIRDSVIEW BREWING CO.

 38302 Highway 20, Concrete

 360-826-3406

 birdsviewbrewingcompany.com

CHUCKANUT BREWERY- SOUTH NUT

TAPROOM

 11937 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington

 360-752-3377

 www.chuckanutbrewery.com

DISTRICT BREWING

 520 Main St, Mount Vernon

 (360) 873-6714

 districtbrewco.com

FARMSTRONG BREWING CO.

 110 Stewart Road, Mount Vernon

 360-873-8852

 farmstrongbrewing.com

GARDEN PATH FERMENTATION

 11653 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington

 gardenpathwa.com

LA CONNER BREWING CO.

 117 S. First St., La Conner

 360-466-1415

 laconnerbrewery.com

NORTH SOUND BREWING CO.

 17406 Highway 536, Unit A, Mount Vernon

 360-982-2057

 northsoundbrewing.com

SKAGIT RIVER BREWERY

 404 S 3rd St, Mount Vernon

 (360) 336-2884

 www.skagitbrew.com

TEMPERATE HABITS BREWING COMPANY

 500 S 1st St, Mount Vernon3

 (360) 399-7740

 temperatehabitsbrewing.com

TERRAMAR BREWING

 5712 Gilkey Ave., Edison

 360-399-6222

 terramarcraft.com

WINERIES

BERTELSEN WINERY

 20598 Starbird Road, Mount Vernon

 bertelsenwinery.com, 360-445-2300

Hours: Tastings 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Profile: This winery offers a range of reds and whites, as well as an event center.

EAGLE HAVEN WINERY

 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley

 eaglehavenwinery.com, 360-856-6248

Hours: Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, 1-8 p.m and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Profile: Eagle Haven offers a range of reds and whites along with fruit wine. An adjoining apple orchard produces fruit for cider.

GLACIER PEAK WINERY

 58575 Highway 20, Rockport

 Glacierpeakresortandwinery.com, 360-708-3005

 Mount Vernon Tasting Room: 13821 Best Road, 360-419-9107

Hours: Call for seasonal hours.

Profile: Glacier Peak Winery produces estate wines, including pinot noir, agria and siegerrebe, as well as wines made from fruit sourced from Eastern Washington. Tasting rooms are in Rockport and Mount Vernon.

PASEK CELLARS

 18729 Fir Island Road, Mount Vernon

 pasekcellars.com, 360-445-4048

Hours: Tastings 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday through Monday, Closed Tuesday.

Profile: Well known for its cranberry wine, Pasek Cellars produces a range of fruit wines, from blackberry to passionfruit.

SKAGIT CELLARS

 106 First St. Suite G, La Conner

 skagitcellars.com, 360-708-2801

Hours: Tastings noon to 6 p.m. Thursday through Monday

Profile: Wines are produced from Eastern Washington grapes.

SKAGIT CREST VINEYARD & WINERY

 105 N. First St., Suite 1, La Conner

 skagitcrest.com, 360-333-9819

Hours: Tastings noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Profile: Most wines produced using estategrown grapes from a 6-acre vineyard in Sedro-Woolley.

TULIP VALLEY VINEYARD & ORCHARD

 16163 Highway 536, Mount Vernon

 tulipvalley.net, 360-428-6894

Hours: Call for seasonal hours.

Profile: This winery produces hand-crafted red and white table wines made from Eastern Washington grapes and is home to Burro Loco Ciders made from locally grown apples.

D ISPLAY GARDENS

AZUSA GARDEN CENTRE

 14904 State Route 20, Mount Vernon  azusagardens.com, 360-424-1580

Situated on a beautiful property with gardens featuring unique and mature specimens, Azusa Garden Centre offers a wide selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and indoor plants.

CHRISTIANSON’S NURSERY

 15806 Best Road, west of Mount Vernon  christiansonsnursery.com, 360-466-3821

Seasonal tours of the 7-acre garden site and a one-room schoolhouse built in 1888.

WSU DISPLAY GARDENS

 16650 Highway 536, west of Mount Vernon  extension.wsu.edu/skagit, 360-4284270, ext. 227

Discovery Garden: More than two dozen gardens showcase hundreds of species of plants at the Washington State University Discovery Garden. Open from dawn to dusk every day.

Washington Native Plant Society Garden: The garden offers a resource for gardeners seeking to learn how to incorporate native plants into landscaping.

Western Washington Fruit Research Foundation Garden: See fruit varieties and growing methods in this 6-acre fruit garden.

SKAGIT ACRES

 18923 Peter Johnson Road, Mount Vernon  skagitacres.com, 360-424-6760

Enjoy 25 picturesque acres along Interstate 5 with a retail greenhouses, a gift shop and cafe.

R ECREATION

Bird watching, boating, kayaking, fishing, camping, hiking, climbing and cycling are just a handful of choices for those seeking recreation in the Skagit Valley.

Nature lovers will find so much to see, any time of year. Photographers will find this place is a dream come true.

There are trails to walk or ride and many parks to visit. Those who love water can fish in local lakes or the Puget Sound or float down the Skagit River in a raft. Beach combing is a favorite pastime.

Winter has its own special attributes. Come see the snow geese and swans that spend their winters here. Enjoy the views.

R ECREATION

FISHING

There is an abundance of water for both saltwater and freshwater fishing here in rivers, lakes and bays. The Skagit River is home to all five species of salmon: chinook, coho, sockeye, chum and pink. Anglers can find trout — steelhead, rainbow, cutthroat, brown and brook — in local lakes and rivers. Warm-water species include bass, bluegill, crappie and perch.

Find state regulations at wdfw.wa.gov. Fishing licenses are required for ages 15 and older.

TOP FISHING SPOTS

Skagit River: Chinook: July-August. Winter steelhead: DecemberApril. Summer steelhead: June-November. Coho: September-November. Chum: October-November. Pink: August-September (Note: They only come in odd-numbered years.) Sockeye: July. Sea-run cutthroat: August-October.

Samish River: Chinook: August-October. Chum: October-November. Coho: September-November. Winter steelhead: December-March. Sea-run cutthroat: August-October.

Pass Lake: Open year-round to fly fishing for catch-and-release. Excellent in early spring and late fall for fish averaging 15 inches.

Big Lake: Open year-round for largemouth bass, black crappie and yellow perch. Fishing tends to be best in spring and summer.

Campbell Lake: Open year-round and stocked annually. It holds rainbow and coastal cutthroat trout, but is known more for its warmwater species. Spring and summer are the best time for largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead and channel catfish.

Clear Lake: Open year-round for rainbow and cutthroat trout, largemouth bass and yellow perch.

R ECREATION

PARKS

Skagit County is home to numerous parks from the North Cascades National Park in the east to Deception Pass State Park to the west. Here are some of the larger ones:

NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK

Location: Headquarters in Sedro-Woolley. Spans along Highway 20, sprawling 30 miles east of Concrete.

Features: Hiking, backpacking, camping, climbing, bicycling, boating, fishing and wildlife viewing.

DECEPTION PASS STATE PARK

Location: North end of Whidbey Island, south end of Fidalgo Island.

Features: Camping in tents, recreational vehicles or rental cabins. Hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, beach combing and bird watching.

Note: The park has 36 miles of trails and 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline on Rosario Strait, Deception Pass and Skagit Bay, as well as 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline along Pass, Cranberry and Campbell lakes.

RASAR STATE PARK

Location: Off Highway 20, 19 miles east of Interstate 5.

Features: Camping, four miles of hiking trails and several playgrounds.

Note: This old farm site boasts 4,000 feet of freshwater shoreline along the Skagit River and lots of wildlife.

BAY VIEW STATE PARK

Location: Shores of Padilla Bay.

Features: On a clear day, the Olympic Mountains can be seen to the west and Mount Rainier to the south.

Note: The park has 1,285 feet of saltwater shoreline along Joe Hamel Beach. The Breazeale Interpretive Center at Padilla Bay is a half-mile north of the park.

ROCKPORT STATE PARK

Location: Eight miles east of Concrete.

Features: The 670-acre day-use park showcases an ancient oldgrowth forest with massive Douglas fir, cedar and maple trees.

R ECREATION

GOLF

AVALON GOLF LINKS

 19345 Kelleher Road, Burlington

 360-757-1900 or 800-624-0202

 avalonlinks.com

 Holes: 27. Length: 10,080 yards

 Public

GATEWAY GOLF COURSE

 1288 Fruitdale Road, Sedro-Woolley

 360-814-4201

 golflink.com/golf-courses/wa/ sedro-woolley/gateway-golf-course

 Holes: 9. Length: 3,050 yards

 Public

OVERLOOK GOLF COURSE

 17523 Highway 9, Mount Vernon

 360-422-6444

 overlookgc.com

 Holes: 9. Length: 2,261 yards

 Public

SWINOMISH GOLF LINKS

 12518 Christianson Road, Anacortes

 360-293-3444

 swinomishcasinoandlodge.com/ golf/the-course

 Holes: 18. Length: 6,177 yards

 Public

SKAGIT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

 16701 Country Club Drive, Burlington

 360-757-4081

 skagitgolfclub.com

 Holes: 18. Length: 6,063 yards

 Private

Join us for Burlington's premier festival, Berry Dairy Days, as we celebrate Skagit Valley's rich agricultural history! Enjoy three days of family fun, featuring free admission to the Grand Parade, Vendor Fair in the park, live music, free Kid Zone, free Teen Zone, Smoke and Grill Competition, and much more. Don’t miss out on our delicious food vendors and our signature strawberry shortcake!

Burlington is the ‘hub city”. Our convenient location is the perfect home base for your adventures in the beautiful Skagit Valley, San Juan Island, Mt. Baker, the Cascade Loop, and so much more!

G ETTING THERE

SKAGIT REGIONAL AIRPORT

portofskagit.com/skagit-regional

Located off Highway 20 between Burlington and Anacortes near Bayview Business Park, Skagit Regional Airport is operated by the Port of Skagit County.

ANACORTES AIRPORT

portofanacortes.com/airport 360-299-1828

Anacortes Airport, on the northwest corner of Fidalgo Island, hosts corporate and private aircraft. San Juan Airlines operates several daily flights to the San Juan Islands. Charters and scenic flights are available.

CONCRETE AIRPORT

townofconcrete.com/airport 360-853-8401

Also known as Mears Field, the airport is a public airfield.

AMTRAK

amtrak.com

Amtrak’s Cascades line operates between Vancouver, British Columbia, to Eugene, Oregon, with a stop in downtown Mount Vernon at Skagit Station, 105 E. Kincaid St.

GUEMES ISLAND FERRY

skagitcounty.net/Departments/PublicWorksFerry/ferry.htm

360-293-6433

Skagit County provides ferry service for passengers and vehicles from Anacortes across the Guemes Channel to Guemes Island. The dock is located at Sixth Street and I Avenue. It’s a five-minute trip.

SKAGIT TRANSIT

skagittransit.org

360-757-4433

Skagit Transit provides bus service throughout the county and offers connector service to Bellingham, Everett and Whidbey Island. The main transfer location for most routes is at 105 E. Kincaid St. in downtown Mount Vernon. Service offered for those with disabilities.

WASHINGTON STATE FERRIES

wsdot.wa.gov/ferries

206-464-6400

1-888-808-7977

Washington State Ferries provides frequent daily passenger and car service from Anacortes to Orcas Island, Lopez Island, Shaw Island and Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. The terminal is located on Highway 20, about three miles west of downtown Anacortes. Ferry service to Sidney, British Columbia, is usually available, except in winter.

R ECREATION

FIND A TRAIL

ANACORTES COMMUNITY FOREST LANDS

Location: Anacortes Distance: 50 miles

Getting there: The 2,800 acres are in the center of Anacortes.

Notable: A large network of easy to moderate trails that pass by lakes, Mount Erie and Sugarloaf Mountain. Find maps at Anacortes Parks & Recreation, City Hall.

PORT OF SKAGIT TRAILS

Location: Burlington

Distance: 10.2 miles

Getting there: Park at the corner of Ovenell Road and Higgins Airport Way, or the corner of Josh Wilson Road and Higgins Airport Way.

Notable: Gravel trail system winds through forest and wetlands.

MOUNTAIN BIKE ROUTES CASCADE TRAIL

Location: Sedro-Woolley

Distance: 22.5 miles

Getting there: Park along Highway 20.

Notable: A rails-to-trails effort, the Cascade Trail runs from Sedro-Woolley to Concrete.

NORTHERN STATE RECREATION AREA

Location: Sedro-Woolley

Distance: 4 miles

Getting there: North of Highway 20 on Helmick Road east of Sedro-Woolley.

Notable: Trail is on the grounds of former farming operations at Northern State Hospital.

LITTLE MOUNTAIN

Location: Mount Vernon

Distance: 10 miles

Getting there: At Little Mountain Park.

Notable: Trails cross the flanks of Little Mountain, from the park entrance to its summit.

Threeoutstandinggalleriesof fascinatingSkagithistory.Preserving andpresentingthehistoryofSkagit Countyforallpeople,foralltime. ComeexploreSkagithistory

R ECREATION

BIRDING

Thousands of snow geese and trumpeter swans visit the lowlands each winter. To the east, the county is known as a terrific place to view bald eagles along the Skagit River. January’s Skagit Eagle Festival is a monthlong celebration of the birds held in Concrete, Rockport and Marblemount. The Edison Bird Festival in late February is another nod to area birds and includes guided birding trips and a chicken parade. The Skagit Audubon Society’s list of recommended bird-watching sites includes:

SKAGIT BAY, SKAGIT WILDLIFE AREA

A variety of species can be seen in the Wylie Slough Area, the Jensen Access and the North Fork Access.

SAMISH FLATS, BETWEEN PADILLA BAY AND ALICE BAY

Raptors, waterfowl and passerines.

SKAGIT FLATS ON FIR ISLAND

Snow geese, trumpeter and tundra swans and raptors are frequently seen in winter.

PADILLA BAY NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE, PADILLA BAY

Tour exhibits at Breazeale Interpretive Center. Tuesday through Saturday.

WASHINGTON PARK, ANACORTES

A great spot for seabird watching.

CYCLING

When riders want open space to roll, Skagit County is the place to go. Bike maps are available at local chambers of commerce.

BIKE MS: DECEPTION PASS CLASSIC

 Early September

 events.nationalmssociety.org

 main.nationalmssociety.org

Two-day journey through Skagit, Whatcom and Island counties. As many as 2,000 riders will cruise along scenic figure-eight courses ranging from 22 to 97 miles each day.

TULIP PEDAL

 April, La Conner

 tulipfestival.org

Ride past flowers and fields on 20-, 40and 60-mile routes.

SPRING CLASSIC

 May, Mount Vernon

 skagitbicycleclub.org

Rides of 100, 65, 45 and 25 miles on the Saturday before Mother’s Day (May 13, 2023), starting and finishing at Tulip Town. Up to 800 riders have participated in previous races.

R ECREATION

HIKING

FAMILY FRIENDLY CUMBERLAND CREEK INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

Location: Sedro-Woolley Distance: 2.5 miles

Getting there: From the South Skagit Highway Park and Ride off Highway 9 in Sedro-Woolley, take South Skagit Highway 12 miles east. Turn left into driveway at 34183 South Skagit Highway.

SUPER SCENIC GOOSE ROCK PERIMETER/ SUMMIT TRAILS

Location: Near south end of Fidalgo Island Distance: 3 miles

Getting there: On the south side of Deception Pass Bridge, turn into the lot and head down the staircase to the NW Goose Rock Summit trailhead. The trail leads to the top.

SHORT AND SWEET

POMONA GRANGE PARK

Location: North of Burlington Distance: 0.4 mile

Getting there: I-5 to exit 232. Turn right on Cook Road. Go north at the stoplight on Old Highway 99. In about 3.5 miles, the park is on the right.

Note: Easy for all ages with interpretive signs along the way.

LEG

BURNER OYSTER DOME

Location: Bow Distance: 5 miles

Getting there: From I-5, take Highway 11 (Chuckanut Drive) north for 10.2 miles. Trailhead is on the right at milepost 10.

Note: Trail twists and climbs through the Chuckanut Mountains and ends atop a rocky outcropping with views of the San Juan Islands.

ADA ACCESSIBLE SKAGIT RIVER TRAIL

Location: East of Sedro-Woolley Distance: 1 mile ADA accessible, 2.5-mile loop

Getting there: From Highway 20 in SedroWoolley, head east for about 15 miles. Turn south on Lusk Road and continue one mile. Turn east on Cape Horn Road and go one mile to Rasar State Park entrance.

Note: Trail is situated along the north shore of the Skagit River. The first portion is wheelchair accessible.

R ECREATION

AUTO RACING

Rubber meets dirt with sprint cars and more at this popular dirt track from April to September.

SKAGIT SPEEDWAY

 4796 Old Highway 99 North, Burlington  360-724-3567

 skagitspeedway.com

Skagit Speedway, located on Old Highway 99 between Burlington and Alger, hosts several sprint-car series and other classifications. Highlights include the Jim Raper Memorial Dirt Cup and an annual visit by the World of Outlaws sprint-car series. Special events include stunt shows and fireworks. Camping is available.

KAYAKING

Paddling across the waters of Skagit County and the nearby San Juan Islands is a must for those who love the water.

If you need to rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, there are options in Anacortes:

 Anacortes Kayak Tours (anacorteskay-

aktours.com) offers half-day, full-day and multi-day sea kayak tours departing from Anacortes and venturing throughout the San Juan Islands.

 Blue Otter Outfitters (blueotter.com) rents kayaks and other equipment.

T hings To D o in s kagiT

THINGS TO DO BY MONTH

MARCH

ENJOY PLAYS, FILMS, AND LIVE CONCERTS ON THE LINCOLN STAGE!

Since the 1920s, the Lincoln Theatre has been a popular and essential part of the Skagit Valley. This performance venue features films, concerts, theatrical plays, and various other performances as well as being a premier location to host weddings, meetings, and other private events. Go to our website and sign up for

our mailing list to keep up with everything we have going on! lincolntheatre.org/calendar

MARCH

LA CONNER DAFFODIL FESTIVAL

The La Conner Daffodil Festival celebrates spring and daffodils! It’s just so beautiful in March with the

Daffodils blooming and there are so many fun events and exhibits in La Conner during the month of March. If you can’t make it to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in April, join us in March for the La Conner Daffodil Festival! lovelaconner.com/la-connerdaﬀodil-festival

MARCH 22

BLOSSOM BASH

Celebrate the blooming of nature and new beginnings at Blossom Bash. The event will have over 60+ local vendors to shop from. There will also be food trucks and a coffee bar. skagitcounty.net/Fairgrounds/ Documents/Blossom%20Bash.pdf

MARCH 28TH - 30TH

SICBA HOME AND GARDEN SHOW

SICBA is proud to announce its 43rd Annual Home and Garden Show. The event will feature speakers, food, live music, classes and a Lego buildings contest.

All things related to outdoor decor, lawn and garden care, home improvement, and interior design from the comfort of your own home. Held at the Skagit County Fairgrounds in Mount Vernon. sicba.org/home-garden-show

MARCH

AZUSA GARDEN CENTRE

Situated on a beautiful property with gardens featuring unique and

mature specimens, Azusa Garden Centre offers a wide selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and indoor plants. They also carry a variety of soil mixes, fertilizers, and other gardening supplies.

Check out the website for upcoming Bonsai classes and other events. Azusagardens.com/events

APRIL

KIWANIS SALMON BBQ

Mount Vernon Kiwanis Salmon BBQ has been cooking salmon traditionally for over 50 years as our primary fundraiser to help children in Mount Vernon and beyond! Come join us in April for the best meal you’ll have all year! Bring your family and friends! Every Fri/Sat/Sun in April. Official Event of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Hillcrest Lodge,1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon mvkiwanisclub.org

APRIL

THE SKAGIT WOOD EXPO & MARKETPLACE

The Skagit Wood Expo & Marketplace focuses on displaying locally sourced woodworking, lumber milling and craftwork. The family-friendly event will feature live milling, woodworking demonstrations, a live auction, live music, a circus show and over 50 local vendors. skagitwoodexpo.com

APRIL

7TH ANNUAL SKAGIT CHILI & CHOWDER COOK-OFF!

Skagit Chili & Chowder Cook-off presented by Craft Stove… where you choose the winner! Enter your favorite recipe or come and enjoy others! 7th annual Skagit Chili & Chowder Cook-Off!

APRIL 1-30

SKAGIT VALLEY TULIP FESTIVAL

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the largest festival in Northwest Washington State and the largest Tulip Festival in the United States! Each year, more than 1 million visitors come to experience fields of brightly colored tulips. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival welcomes you! tulipfestival.org

APRIL 11-12

31ST ANNUAL SPRING GARAGE SALE

The 31st Annual Spring Garage Sale is set to include over 190 vendors, hand-crafted items, food and live music! Admission is free for those 12

and under and $5 for everyone else. skagitcounty.net/Departments/ Fairgrounds

APRIL 18-20

TULIP FESTIVAL STREET FAIR

Join us as 160+ artisan vendors, entertainers, and food trucks gather in beautiful Downtown Mount Vernon for the annual Tulip Festival

HUGE POP-UP SALE!

Street Fair! Explore streets lined with handmade goods and artisan creations, food trucks with delicious fare, and live music all three days on the “Tulip Tunes” stage in Pine Square. We can’t wait to welcome you to this year’s celebration of craftsmanship and community! Mark your calendars for April 18 - 20 and don’t miss the Tulip Festival Street Fair!

MAY 6TH

NORTH CASCADE STREET ROD SWAP MEET

The North Cascade Street Rod Swap Meet is an indoor/outdoor

event featuring cars, trucks, parts, collectibles, car-related clothing, food and coffee.

skagitcounty.net/Fairgrounds

MAY 10TH

SKAGIT COUNTY MASTER GARDENER FOUNDATION 31ST ANNUAL PLANT FAIR

The 30th Annual Plant Fair, hosted by the WSU Extension Master Gardeners, will feature over 40 different varieties of tomatoes, annuals flowers, perennials, natives, trees, shrubs, ferns, veggies, herbs, vendors, free garden tool samplings, a plant clinic

and a variety of demonstrations. Admission and parking is free! skagitmg.org/home/events/plantfair

MAY 17TH

SPRING VENDOR FAIR

The Skagit County Spring Fair is set to offer carnival games, grilled goodness, local arts, sweet treat, a photo booth, bounce houses and custom shirts. Admission to the event is free.

skagitcounty.net/Fairgrounds

MAY

- 17TH

ANACORTES BOAT & YACHT SHOW

Adventures Begin Here! Anacortes is the premier “Spring Destination” point for all things boating and much more at the newest boat show in this region.

anacortesboatandyachtshow.com

MAY 29 - 31ST

PUGET SOUND JUNIOR LIVESTOCK SHOW AND SALE

The mission of the Puget Sound Junior Livestock Show, in harmony with the students and communities, is to empower youth to be positive contributors to society and the livestock and agriculture industries. Pugetsoundjuniorlivestockshow. org

JUNE 7 - 8TH

ANACORTES WATERFRONT FESTIVAL

At Cap Sante Marina. Features openair car show; food vendors; arts and crafts booths; children’s activities including giant slides and water balls; live music, and other entertainment. anacortes.org/waterfront-festival

JUNE 6 - 8TH

BLAST FROM THE PAST 2025

Friday, June 6th, 2025

Vendor Fair 12 pm – 8 pm

Live Music on stage at the intersection of Metcalf & Woodworth

Saturday, June 7th, 2025

Vendor Fair 10:00 am – 8 pm

Kids Zone Hammer Heritage Square

Boys & Girls Club, 11 am – 3 pm

Blast of Color/Bubble Fun Run at 11 am

Check-in starts at 10 am on the Cascade Trail across from Sedro10 Bowling Alley.

Sunday, June 8th, 2025

Vendor Fair 9 am – 4 pm

Car Show Hosted by the American Legion Post 43 701 Murdock, special guest Ryan Evans from Counting Cars. sedro-woolley.com/blast-from-thepast

JUNE 20 - 22ND

BERRY DAIRY DAYS

Join us for the 87th Berry Dairy Days Festival June 20th, 21st, and 22nd for 3-days of FREE admission, fireworks, Grand Parade, Vendor Fair, live music, Berry Cool Car show, Free Kids Zone, BBQ Competition, the berry best food vendors, and our delicious

strawberry shortcake. For all things Berry: berrydairydays.com

JUNE 29 - 5TH

LOGGERODEO

Sedro-Woolley’s celebration of logging history and horseback riding over the Fourth of July holiday historically includes a rodeo. Downtown, there’s a street dance and music at Hammer Heritage Square, plus chainsaw

carving and logging demonstrations. Fireworks are featured on July 4 at Riverfront Park. loggerodeo.org

JULY

ANACORTES KIDS R BEST FEST

The annual event, which usually takes place the second Saturday in July, hosts a number of activities and games for kids and families. cityofanacortes.org/978/kids-rbest-fest

JULY

BURLINGTON SUMMER NIGHTS

This concert series features local bands throughout the summer, performing at the

Burlington Chamber of Commerce Amphitheater, 520 E. Fairhaven Ave. facebook.com/ BurlingtonSummerNights

JULY

CONCRETE VINTAGE FLY-IN

The annual event has grown to become a favorite fly-in for vintage,

classic and antique airplane enthusiasts. Held at Mears Field Airport, 45389 Airport Way in Concrete. concrete-wa.com/events/fly-in

JULY

SKAGIT ARTISTS TOGETHER NW ART BEAT STUDIO TOURS

Watch as artists demonstrate in their studios throughout Skagit County and enjoy art shows at local galleries. nwartbeat.com

is still enjoyed by residents and guests because of the long history of community involvement, which was started by a volunteer firefighter named Lyle Robbins. Proceeds from the fireworks donations pay for the entire fireworks event and provide much needed funding for fire department equipment and training. For the past 56 years the Big Lake Firefighters Association has continued this well-received tradition biglakefire.org/association.html

JULY 4

The Fourth of July is a muchcelebrated holiday across the Skagit Valley, typically with parades, events, concerts and fireworks in Anacortes, Burlington, La Conner, Mount Vernon and Sedro-Woolley. Check city websites for updates.

JULY 4TH

ROCK THE DOCK

Join us July 4 for Rock the Dock, an annual tradition hosted by the Port of Anacortes at Seafarers’ Memorial Park! This free, family-friendly community event features live music, local food and drink, and a fireworks display as we gather to celebrate Independence Day and kick off summer festivities.

JULY 12 - 13

SKAGIT VALLEY HIGHLAND GAMES

The Skagit Valley Highland Games is part of an annual circuit of Scottish competitions held in the Pacific Northwest and Lower Mainland of British Columbia. As such, the quality of performers in solo bagpiping and drumming competitions, bagpipe bands, fiddling, traditional Scottish athletics (the “heavy” events) and Scottish Highland dancing is at an

extremely high level. celticarts. org/basic-pages/skagit-valleyhighland-games

JULY 19

SHIPWRECK FESTIVAL

Downtown Commercial Avenue in Anacortes becomes a street market for a full day for a flea market-style extravaganza. Early birds get their pick at 8 a.m., but the deals get better all day.

shipwreckfest.com

AUGUST

RIVERWALK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

The Riverwalk Summer Concert Series takes place every Thursday night in August on the Mount Vernon Riverwalk Plaza. The two-hour

concerts will begin at 6 p.m. and feature a mix of family-friendly local and regional artists.

AUGUST 1 - 3

ANACORTES ARTS FESTIVAL

For 64 years, the Anacortes Arts Festival has united artists and infused the community with a creative

spirit. It features hundreds of artisan booths, working studios where artists demonstrate their crafts, a fine art exhibition, and a kid’s discovery area. Visit the beer, wine, and food gardens while listening to live music on August 1st-3rd. AnacortesArtsFestival.com

AUGUST 7 - 10

SKAGIT COUNTY FAIR

The 2024 Skagit County Fair will run August 7 - 10. The Fair is encouraging all local residents to get involved and showcase their skills at this year’s Fair. Information on how to enter art, quilts, flowers, canned goods and much more will be posted online this Spring at www.skagitcounty.net/fair

AUGUST 15 - 16

CASCADE DAYS

This old-time celebration in Concrete features a parade, logging demonstration, food and music, usually the third weekend in August. The event includes a chili cook-off, pie-eating contest, chainsaw-carving exhibitions and pet shows. cascadedays.com

SEPTEMBER

B’TOWN FALLFEST

Live music, food vendors, fireworks, pumpkin pitching and more during the last weekend in September. burlingtonwa.gov/837/BTown-FallFest

SEPTEMBER 19 - 20

FALL GARAGE SALE

Shop at the annual Fall Garage Sale at the Skagit County Fairgrounds in south Mount Vernon. skagitcounty.net/departments/ fairgrounds

SEPTEMBER 28

OYSTER RUN

On the fourth Sunday each September, Anacortes hosts an estimated 10,000 bikers during the annual Oyster Run, making it the largest motorcycle run in the Pacific Northwest. The one-day event, rain or shine, includes vendors, music, oysters and parking for thousands of motorcycles. oysterrun.org

SEPTEMBER

SKAGIT BIGFOOT FEST

Skagit BigFoot Fest is a Bigfoot Music and Vendor Festival that offers a unique

and entertaining experience for attendees. skagitbigfootfest.com

OCTOBER

CONCRETE GHOST WALK

Explore some of Concrete’s most haunted locations while learning some of its history every Saturday night in October. Participants must be at least 13 years old and minors need to be accompanied by an adult. concrete-wa.com

OCTOBER

BREW ON THE SLOUGH

A day full of beer tastings and live music at Maple Hall in La Conner, in mid-October. lovelaconner.com/la-conner-beerfestival

OCTOBER

BIER ON THE PIER

With more than 40 breweries, cideries and food trucks your palate will experience tastes ranging from spicy and peppery to the citrusy and piney hops of the Pacific Northwest. With the beautiful views of the Guemes Channel and live music from local bands. anacortes.org/event

OCT. 4 - 5

FESTIVAL OF FAMILY FARMS

Join us the weekend of October 4th & 5th for our 27th Annual Festival of Family Farms! festivaloﬀamilyfarms.com

OCT. 31

FIRST STREET TRICK-OR-TREAT

Join us for Downtown Mount Vernon’s Annual First Street Trickor-Treat for Halloween, where families come downtown for a safe and fun addition or alternative to neighborhood trick-or-treating. Bring your costumed kiddos (and kids-at-heart!) and stroll around collecting goodies from participating businesses on Friday, October 31, starting at 4:00 pm.

NOVEMBER

ART’S ALIVE!

Merchants showcase art exhibits and demonstrations ranging from pottery to dog portraiture. Maple Hall features invitational and open show exhibits. townoflaconner.org/162/ArtsCommission

NOVEMBER

29TH ANNUAL SKAGIT COUNTY VETERANS DAY PARADE

Saturday, November 15th, 2025. Let’s come together to honor and celebrate the Heros & families who have served our nation. We invite you to be part of our Veterans Day Parade full parade . Activities before

and after the parade at the Visitors Information Center/Burlington Chamber of Commerce.

Please contact Burlington Parks & Recreation at recreation@ burlingtonwa.gov to get involved.

NOVEMBER

SKAGIT WINE & BEER FESTIVAL

You will be delighted with wines, beer and spirits from regions throughout Washington, including local Skagit County wineries, microbrews and spirits, as well as gourmet appetizers, divine chocolate and delectable cheese sampling made right in Skagit County. Located at the Heritage Flight Museum. mountvernonchamber.com/skagitwine-beer-fest

Skagit

Tickets

Discounts

Business Sponsorship

NOVEMBER

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Join the Shop Small movement right here in Downtown Mount Vernon by shopping in our small businesses . Choosing to shop small is choosing to invest in this community that we know and love, helping our small businesses thrive. We hope you join us!

DECEMBER

LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

Boats on the parade route start at Cap Sante Marina, circle the Guemes Channel and then take the Anacortes waterfront back to the start. Viewing points for the parade include Seafarer’s Memorial Park, Rotary Park, Amphitheater, Secret Cove, Curtis

Wharf, Kiwanis Park, Guemes Trail, Ship Harbor Blvd & L on Edwards Way, Ship Harbor Interpretive Reserve and Guemes Island General Store.

DECEMBER

WINTER WONDERLAND

The Children’s Museum of Skagit County creates a winter wonderland every year at the Outlet Shoppes at Burlington on the first full weekend in December! There are activities

for children, families, teens, and adults – indoor and outdoor fun for everyone! The entire event is FREE and we are encouraging local families as well as those from all over the Pacific Northwest to enjoy it with them. Learn more skagitchildrensmuseum.net/ events/special-events

DECEMBER 8

ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE

Come downtown to enjoy glittering floats, music, and lights from local organizations, schools, businesses, and community members. It’s all happening on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 5pm! Want to be a part of the parade? Sign up through the link on our website: mountvernondowntown.org

Whales of the San Juan Islands: Then & Now

Trevor Derie & Brook McKinley with Outer Island Excursions

The San Juan Islands are a haven for a diverse array of whales and marine wildlife. Within the Salish Sea, minke, gray, humpback, and killer whales are a common sight. Historically, the Southern Resident killer whalescomprising J, K, and L pods-were the predominant type of orcas encountered here. In contrast, the Bigg’s, or Transient, killer whales were seen less frequently. The Southern Residents primarily feast on fish, particularly Chinook salmon, while Bigg’s orcas target marine mammals like harbor seals, sea lions, and porpoises. Despite their misleading names, the key differences between these two types of killer whales lie in their diet and family structures.

In recent years, the patterns of these killer whale populations in the Salish Sea have shifted. Declining salmon populations, largely due to extensive development and industrial activities, have forced the Southern Residents to search for food elsewhere, resulting in fewer visits to the region.

Moreover, most whale-watching boats have ceased following the Southern Resident Killer Whales to protect these critically endangered orcas and support their recovery. Regulatory bodies, such as NOAA Fisheries, have implemented guidelines and regulations to minimize human impacts. These include increasing the distance boats must maintain from the whales, reducing speed limits in their vicinity, and limiting the number of boats allowed in critical habitats. By reducing boat traffic around these whales, a quieter and less stressful environment is created, aiding their recovery efforts.

About a decade ago, sightings of Bigg’s killer whales started becoming more common. Today, encountering them is the new

norm. This change is partly due to successful conservation efforts like the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which has helped protect and restore the marine ecosystem. Shoreline protections aimed at recovering forage fish populations-the foundation of the food chain-have allowed porpoises, seals, and sea lions to thrive. This abundance of prey has supported the growth of Bigg’s killer whale populations in the area.

Other whale populations are also being seen more frequently. Following the whaling era, humpback whale sightings were rare in the San Juan Islands. However, due to protective measures their numbers are increasing. Since the late 1990s, nearly 1,000 individual humpback whales have been photo-identified in the region, marking a significant recovery often referred to as “The Humpback Comeback.”

Whale watching plays a crucial role in this conservation success story. The collaboration of whale-watching vessels helps locate and identify whales, providing essential data to researchers who cannot always be on the water. These vessels also act as sentinels, alerting boaters to the presence of whales, removing harmful debris from the waters, and reporting recreational boater behavior to enforcement agencies. The presence of many vigilant eyes on the water contributes significantly to the protection and study of whale populations.

While the dynamics of whale populations have evolved, the commitment of the San Juan Islands community to protect and understand these majestic creatures remains unwavering. This dedication to stewardship ensures that, despite inevitable changes, efforts to improve the health of the Salish Sea continue to progress. Through fostering this ethos, the community strives to enhance their role in this delicate ecosystem, ensuring a bright future for the whales and wildlife of the San Juan Islands.

T OURS

BOAT TOURS

NATURE BOAT TOURS

Boat and powerhouse tours and North Cascades expeditions are offered by Seattle City Light, which operates the Skagit Hydroelectric Project in the North Cascades.

Boat tours on Diablo Lake at the base of Ross Dam are offered first-come, firstserved Thursdays through Mondays from late June through early September, as well as Saturdays and Sundays the last half of September. Guides lead a short walk to the boat dock for a four-hour tour. It ends with a locally sourced lunch at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center. www.seattle.gov/city-light/inthe-community/tours-recreationand-education/skagit-tours-andrecreation

Boat tours offer a chance to see a variety of marine life, including whales, seals, porpoise, otters and numerous birds. Tour options out of Anacortes include Island Adventures and Outer Island Excursions. Another option, Deception Pass Tours, leaves from the area state park. The main season usually runs from April to October, but some tours start earlier. Private charters for other types of boat tours and fishing are also available from private companies. Rates vary.

DECEPTION PASS TOURS

deceptionpasstours.com

 1-888-909-8687 ISLAND ADVENTURES

 island-adventures.com

 1-800-465-4604 or 360-293-2428

OUTER ISLAND EXCURSIONS

 outerislandx.com

 360-376-3711

SALISH SEA SCHOOL

thesalishseasschool.org

360-230-8018

T OURS

RAFTING

The upper section of the Skagit River, rated as Class II-III, is good for ages 6 and older. The four-hour rafting journey down this 10-mile stretch offers moderate whitewater. For a calmer float, try a fall trip to watch the colors turn, or book a salmon- and eagle-viewing trip during winter. The latter takes you down a 10-mile stretch of the Skagit River that passes through a bald eagle sanctuary.

Several tour groups can be found online searching “skagit rafting.”

E NTERTAINMENT

Music, dance, theater and stunning photography can be found in even the smallest of communities.

Theater groups, symphony, opera, chorales, choruses and a variety of local bands contribute to a rich cultural environment.

TOP VENUES

MCINTYRE HALL

McIntyre Hall is Skagit County’s premier performing arts hall, located on the Skagit Valley College campus in Mount Vernon with a seating capacity of 651 and a conference center. 360-416-7727, ext. 2; 866-624-6897, ext. 2; mcintyrehall.org

LINCOLN THEATRE

The Lincoln Theatre in downtown Mount Vernon is a legendary performing arts venue and movie house. This venue was built in 1926 and has been renovated over the years into a premier stage for performances and events, including independent films, dance and high-def broadcast of opera. 360-336-8955, lincolntheatre.org

MCINTYRE HALL

E NTERTAINMENT

ANACORTES COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Anacortes Community Theatre, founded in 1964, performs musicals, comedies and dramas as well as shows written and produced by local playwrights. 360-293-6829, acttheatre.com

MUSEUM OF NORTHWEST ART

The Museum of Northwest Art is one of the most influential art museums in the Pacific Northwest, focusing on exhibiting, preserving and interpreting Northwest art and artists. Its permanent collection has more than 2,500 pieces. Admission to this museum in La Conner is free. 360-466-4446, monamuseum.org

PHILLIP TARRO THEATRE

Skagit Valley College’s 210-seat Phillip Tarro Theatre on the Mount Vernon campus is an intimate venue for smaller productions, panels or workshops. 360-416-7723, skagit.edu

ROCKFISH GRILL

The Rockfish hosts numerous live-music concerts in an intimate setting at 320 Commercial Ave. in downtown Anacortes. anacortesrockfish.com

THE OLD EDISON INN

The classic old-school tavern draws a crowd with live music on the weekends, competitive shuffleboard and some of the best food in the county. It’s the longtime center of entertainment in the Bow community. theoldedison.com

EAGLE HAVEN WINERY

A rural setting just east of Sedro-Woolley on the way to Highway 20, Eagle Haven features summer concerts and events, with a stage and seating area near its orchards. eaglehavenwinery.com/concerts-events.html

CINEMAS

AMC LOEWS, CASCADE MALL

200 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington 888-262-4386 amctheatres.com 14 screens

ANACORTES CINEMAS

415 O Ave., Anacortes 360-293-7000

www.fandango.com/anacortescinemas-aauzi/theater-page Three screens

LINCOLN THEATRE

712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360-336-8955 lincolntheatre.org One screen

CONCRETE THEATRE & ACT ONE ICE CREAM PARLOR

45920 Main St., Concrete 360-941-0403 concrete-theatre.com

One screen

CASINOS

THE SKAGIT CASINO RESORT

5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow 877-275-2448, 360-724-7777 theskagit.com

The resort includes a 103-room hotel and conference center, 900 slot machines in the casino, three restaurants and live entertainment in several rooms located off Interstate 5, north of Burlington.

SWINOMISH CASINO AND LODGE

12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes 360-293-2691, 888-288-8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

Offerings include slots, table games, poker, special events, banquets and an RV park. The casino and its 98-room hotel offer a range of dining options from fine to casual, as well as convention spaces overlooking Padilla Bay.