Skagit River Loop

This family-friendly and wheelchair accessible 1.8-mile loop trail treats hikers to many forest wonders, including stands of old cedars and firs and an abundance of moss, lichen and ferns. Along the trail you will have multiple opportunities to dip your feet in the mighty Skagit River and, if visiting in the fall and winter, the possibility of seeing spawning salmon. This part of the Skagit River is currently being reviewed for inclusion in the Wild and Scenic Rivers designation by North Cascades National Park. This trail is a great way to introduce children to the outdoors as the elevation gain is subtle (100 feet, mostly in the form of a big hill back to the trailhead). If you wish to make a weekend getaway for the family in the North Cascades, the nearby Newhalem Campground offers fantastic campsites and facilities.

Directions: From Seattle, head east on Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway) to milepost 120 and the North Cascades National Park Visitors Center in Newhalem, about 53 miles east of Sedro-Woolley. Turn right and continue about a mile, past Newhalem Campground, to the visitors center. The trailhead is just behind the building, on the right. Click here for more information about the hike.