For the past 6 years Bill and his wife Nani, have been providing eggs to the local area of Lakebay. They have double Jumbo eggs that even local farmers come to purchase. Each morning they wake up at The Happy Rooster Farm with”A Symphony of Roosters” as they get to live out their best days.
“What makes us different is that we care for our birds on the highest level. This is a safe haven where they get to roam without worry. Because of the care we put into the birds, we can produce some really JUMBO eggs. ”
Nani and BIll are the owners of The Happy Rooster Farm, LLC. Bill native to Tacoma and Nani native to Hawaii. Together they love local sports when they are not building their dreams.
Local Biz Heros, Bill and Nani
Bill and Nani are what we like to call a Local Biz Heros. They represent self-made entrepreneurs, hard workers and they bring true value to their community. High stands of professionalism and integrity are the ethics needed of business owners like BIll and Nani. This beautiful couple are the infrastructure of farming economy.
Every dollar they make goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community. The Happy Rooster Farm supports the local food banks, churches and senior centers with fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs and their love.
Double Jumbo Eggs
We sat down with Bill and Nani for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“It started as a hobby but we couldn’t keep up with the demand. So we started the business and that allowed us to sell to big box stores and while keeping our locals happy too.”
How did you get into this profession?
“We were caring for small farm animals and started having a lot of roosters. They were all very happy and we had a bunch of eggs being produced. It all came together with daily hard work and the support from the locals.
Being farmers, Bill and Nani work directly with many locals, we asked they what’s the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job? “We had a local egg farmer come by for our “double jumbo eggs” because his were just too small.“
If you could share one tip with the readers what would it be?
“Ask where your food comes from and how they care for the animals or farm food. In the end, the food speaks for itself.“
Seriously Great Eggs!
For those of you who are looking for the BEST eggs and organic skin care, Bill and Nani should be our first choice. The Happy Rooster Farm supports our community by providing a health produce made by hand. Call Bill at 253-313-4787, or visit https://www.facebook.com/thehappyroosterfarm/– “Seriously Great Eggs!”
For the past 6 years, Jory Wallis with Seattle Messenger Cooperative and his team have become Fast, Reliable and Friendly. They are fully invested in providing the best service they can for each and every delivery. The team of 13 take pride in their business. Each of them are owners and hold specific roles within the company.
“What makes us different is that we are each highly involved in every delivery. We all share ownership and that shows with each delivery. Seattle Messenger Cooperative are very flexible with who we serve! We have a unique vibe and take pride in ownership providing top notch services.”
Local to Seattle for Over 15 years
Jory is one of the owner of Seattle Messenger Cooperative, a local to Seattle for over 15 years. Jory is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to his community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of small business owners like Jory are the infrastructure of Seattle’s economy. Seattle Messenger Cooperative supports victims of domestic violence and immigration.
Create A Better Business
We sat down with Jory for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“I grew up homeless and that was not easy. I bartended as one of my first jobs. During that time, I really enjoyed riding my bike. As a result, that got me into bike messenger work. Randomly, I reconnected with a friend from high school, Elliot, while being a messenger. We decided we could Create a Better Business model and environment while enhancing the customer experience.”
How did you get into this profession?
“I was supporting myself and this was my favorite job of all. I’m passionate about bikes. I knew I could create a better service starting my own company. After the help of my business-family, we got to work.”
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a, what would it be?
“There are a lot of messenger companies around. Look for the vibe that best fits for you. Some are cooperate only. Some are more personable and efficient like us! If you want to choose wisely, choose us.”
Seattle’s Favorite Messenger Company
For those of you who are looking for a professional Messenger, look no further. Seattle’s Favorite Messenger Company, Seattle Messenger Cooperative team should be your first choice! Seattle Messenger Cooperative supports Domestic violence and immigration victims with a discount (to include immigration attorneys). Call Jory at (206) 250-6349, – Seriously, A Fast and Reliable Team!
For the past 16 years Laureen Skrivan created a Woman-Owned local business called Wren & Willow, Inc. Her team as a General Contractor Tacoma WA that feels more like a family. They have been remodeling while beautifying Tacoma and the greater area for years. Driven by Legacy, Laureen has seen what it takes to make a difference within her community.
Wren & Willow, Inc | One Stop Shop
“What makes us different is that I did not want to give up on my clients during the process of building their dream home. So, I created a business that allows you to shop the entire process under one roof. This gives you the customer a quicker turn over on projects and less stress on the pockets.”
Laureen, Founder and President of Wren & Willow, Inc, a Philadelphia native, born and raised. Her experience gave her the insights she needed when she moved to Tacoma. Being an advocate for family and the community allowed her to stand out even from the beginning.
Local Biz Hero | Laureen and her Family
Laureen is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to her community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of small business owners like Laureen are the infrastructure of small business economy.
Every dollar that Laureen and her family makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as Wren & Willow supports the The Journey Fund charity, as well doing long term volunteer work with Ruston Business District and being the first woman President elected for the Master Builder’s Association of Pierce County in 2014.
A special thank you to Cliff Kendall, who is our General Manager, and helped rename the company Wren & Willow, Inc. “I would not have been able to do what we do without your extraordinary service to me and our mission. Thank you from Laureen.”
Breastplate of Armor Displayed by Wren & Willow, Inc owner
We sat down with Laureen for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“My grandfather, Giuseppe Miliziano trained to be a brick mason. With a decision to pursue the American dream, he immigrated to the U.S. to become a brick mason in New York during the Great Depression (according to WrenandWillow.com). Now living in my day, I wanted more for my family. After fighting breast cancer twice, I knew I could face anything. I started my business and never looked back.” Her cancer was not a crutch but a Breastplate of Armor that gave her the confidence to live fearlessly.
How did you get into this profession?
“I always loved art and a specific artist named William Morris, designer in England in late 1800s. Evoking nature within his art. So creating the bird (Wren) and tree (Willow) in our name and logo.”
Being a people person, Laureen works directly with many locals, we asked her what’s the most exciting situation that is coming up? “After moving to the Ruston District as a General Contractor in Tacoma, WA, we have been working on our next project. We are building out a 21,000 sq ft building for urban living, retail space, offices and a bakery!”
I would say, Look out Tacoma, things just got better again.
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a General Contractor for your next project or remodel, what would it be?
“Understand this is a major investment and you should know the entire process. Ask your potential contractor who they will be using for all parts that they are not servicing themselves. If they cannot come up with reliable businesses, call us. We are your one-stop shop when it comes to serving you and seeing the entire process together. “
General Contractor in Tacoma, WA
For those of you who are looking for a professional general contractor for any type of new home build, remodeling, or general contractor needs, Laureen and the Wren & Willow team should be your first choice. Wren & Willow supports our community on the highest level. Call Laureen or Kyle at 253-338-5545, or visit www.wrenandwillow.com – Seriously Humble Locals.
Striving for perfection in Tacoma, WA, find your Professional Painter in Tacoma
For the past 10 years Larry Ulery, a Professional Painter Tacoma, has been gaining the needed knowledge to become a perfectionist in his trade. Now, years into his own business called Perfect Storm Painting. Larry and his team have been painting everything in South Sound area and Seattle. Residential, commercial and cabinetry are all painting services they provide.
“What makes us different is that I take the additional time to make sure the job is done right the first time. You’ll definitely see the difference from a professional painter and a DIY project.”
Larry is the owner of Perfect Storm Painting, a Tacoma native, born and raised, and loves to serve his City of Destiny.
Larry is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to his community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of small business owners like Larry are the infrastructure of our business economy.
Overall, every dollar that Larry and his team makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as Perfect Storm Painting supports the military and first responders. Just ask how.
Tacoma Residential Painter
We sat down with Larry for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“After years of being in the industry, I knew I could stand out with my technique of being perfect. One job at a time.”
How did you get into this profession?
“I’ve always had an artist look at life. Painting became easy to start yet challenging enough to keep me interested.”
Being a painter, Larry works directly with many people, we asked him what’s the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job? “I was pressure washing someone’s house one day. Just getting finished up and everything was nicely done. The homeowner complained that the windows were not dry. Though I was happy to help dry them off, I was there to pressure wash the house. It got out of control when she got her ladder out and started drying them herself and showing me how. I learned I could be more perfect in that moment.“
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a professional painter, what would it be?
“Ask the painters the process of the entire job. Less experienced painters will not go into detail because they do not know the details it takes to have that professional job done. With Perfect Storm Painting, we walk you through the entire process and prove our perfection in our work. You’ll want to stand back and admire the work. At least that’s what we strive for. “
Residential Painter in the South Sound
For those of you who are looking for a professional painter, Larry and the Perfect Storm Painting team should be your first choice. Call Larry at 253-878-8689 – “Perfect Paint Job, Perfect Storm. Everything PERFECT with Perfect Storm Painting. Perfect Storm Painting
Kindness, Compassion, and Gratitude | It’s what we work by
For the past 4 months Jason Parnell and his Steeler Inc, Professional Steel Tacoma team of 3 have been turning a 50 year business around. Houses, apartments, even daily screws, all use steel to make them, and we are hereto serve you.
“What makes us different is that we have a local manufacturer plant in Seattle. Local allows our quick turnover for our clients to be weeks versus months.”
Jason is the Branch Manager of the Tacoma Branch at Steeler an Oregon native, born and raised, and interesting enough a hockey fan. He cannot wait for the next Seattle Crackin game to start.
Local Hero Tacoma, WA
Jason is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made manager who brings true value to his community. High stands of professionalism and strong sense of community. Step into his Tacoma location and ask for Jason, for your best experience.
Every dollar that Jason and his team makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem. Steeler as a whole supports all walks of life from major bigwig developers to our locals doing DIY projects.
We sat down with Jason for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“I’m a people person. I love being able to help solve their problems. My team and I are really good at it.”
How did you get into this profession?
“I wanted a change and I wanted to be dealing with the local community.”
Tacoma Steel Just Got Tougher
Being a Branch Manager at Steeler, he works directly with many people, we asked him what’s the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job? “The first day I got startedactually. I got bumped up to Branch Manager as the former one resigned and placed her two weeks noticethat same day. Big shoes to fill, so I strapped up and got to work. Now our team is strong and we want to hire more so we can break growth records. “
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a steel company, what would it be?
“If you need the steel and want it sooner, we provide the fastest turnover rate for your next project. Need help finding what to use steel for? Come down to my shop in Tacoma and let’s talk. “
For those of you who are looking for a Professional Steel Tacoma company for any type of work, Jason and the Steeler team (Keith, Jason and Jordan) should be your first choice. “Special shoutout to my team. I could not have done this job without you. Thank you for all your hard work. This one’s for you! – Jason Parnell”.
Call Jason, and Professional Steel Tacoma team at 253-572-8200, or visit www.steeler.com – my motto for the store – “If you are going to excel in anything, excel in kindness, compassion, and gratitude – Jason, Branch Manager.”
Every Local Deserves a Vibrant Life
For the past 3 years Annet Asio-pasquali and the Vibrant Health Home team of “the BEST caregivers” have been serving the Pierce County area. In-home care services are what we provide, and a Vibrant Life is what they receive.
“What makes us different is that we are a Nurse-Owned company which means my background allows me to give Social and Medical advice to the patients. Most of the time this consulting comes at a cost in hospital settings. It is a standard with us.”
Annet is the owner of Vibrant Health Home, a Uganda native, born and raised. Her love for serving the local community came when she moved to Tacoma in 2010, so she instantly went into nursing school. Her passion reignited! As a brand new nurse, she started her career at Tacoma General. Annet wanted to do more than what the hospital could provide at that time, and that was giving the patient capability of in-home care. This is where she now has stepped into her purpose full speed ahead.
Local Biz Hero Makes a Difference in Pierce County
Annet is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to her community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of small business owners like Annet are the infrastructure of the home care economy. Annet and her team Makes a Difference in their community.
Every dollar that Annet and her 16 FULL Time employees and 8 ON-CALL employees make goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as Vibrant Health Home supports the Pierce County area through shopping small and building community.
Making A Global Difference here Locally
We sat down with Annet for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“I wanted to make A Global Difference here Locally. And we are doing just that.”
How did you get into this profession?
“I started as a nurse. After seeing how I could make a difference in the way patients are being cared for, I leaped out in faith and started my own business.”
We Are Here to Serve Them
Being a caregiver and business owner, Annet works directly with many people. We asked her what’s the most unusual situation that has ever happened to you on the job? “Due to HIPPA , we cannot say much. Some awkward moments for our patients come shortly after using the restroom. Our patients are too prideful, but that’s why we are there. We Are Here to Serve Them. To give them a Vibrant LIFE that they cannot give to themselves any longer. “
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing home care, what would it be?
“It’s never too early to start learning about the options. If I had a choice between a local business and a franchise, I would choose local. Shopping local means that money is going to locals that live here. I know that care is provided by someone who has the training expected and needed for our locals. Have Vibrant Health Home on that list.“
For those of you who are looking for a professional in home health care, Annet and the Vibrant Health Home team should be your first choice, and if you did not know Vibrant Health Home supports DSHS. Call Annet at 253-355-3087, or visit www.vibranthealthhomecare.com for a Vibrant LIFE.
For the past few years Valerie Acosta and her husband, a POWER team from All Season Construction of “20 years EXPERIENCE” have been remodeling and beautifying everything between Seattle to Olympia. Residential homes to big commercial buildings.
“What makes us different is that my husband has over 20 years experience. So when speaking to our next client, we ensure our steps follow in line with the outcome of the project.”
Valerie is the co-owner of All Season Construction LLC painting, a Longview native, born and raised, and of course since living in Tacoma, WA giving her city it’s rightful spot.
Self-made Local Hero
Valerie is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a Self-made Local Hero and entrepreneur who brings true value to her community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of small business owners like Valerie and her husband are the infrastructure of the Tacoma and greater area’s economy.
Every dollar that Valerie makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as All Season Construction supports their family through teaching the next generation how to swing a hammer. We sat down with Valerie for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“We wanted to create generational wealth for our family. After years in the industry, we knew we could do it better with more integrity.”
How did you get into this profession?
“ It has become easier for my husband. He is such a fast learner that we decided to start our own business” with those same skills.
My Husband, the Superhero
Being a mom, wife, and business owner, Valerie works directly with many people. We asked her what’s the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job? “Being in the construction industry there was a long wait the last 18 months on a lot of items needed. We had a client wanting new trusses to be placed as their infrastructure and roof. We called the truss company and they were backlogged for months. My Husband, the Superhero built the truss needed for the project in a weekend. He saved the client thousands of dollars and learned a new trade.“
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing All Season Construction, what would it be?
Ask for Blueprints
“When looking to remodel your home or business, ask detailed questions of the process from the constructor before agreeing. You will learn quickly whether they know what they are doing or not. Ask for Blueprints. That’s our standard.“
For those of you who are looking for a professional remodeling company for most jobs, Valerie and the All Season Construction team should be your first choice. All Season Construction supports our community with fair prices and the best work for your dollar. Call Valerie at 360.431.8534, or visit www.allseasoncllc.com – “Any Weather. Anytime. Anywhere. All Season Construction! “
The drive between Spokane and Seattle is usually just a little over 4 hours, but the drive is packed with vastly different kinds of scenery, as well as numerous worthwhile stops that will help break up your drive.
Snoqualmie Falls
With over 1.5 million tourists flocking to the area each year, Snoqualmie Falls has become one of Washington’s most popular tourist attractions. The main attraction is the 270 foot tall waterfalls that are only a 10-minute detour from the I-90 freeway. Viewers can get great views of the majestic falls from two separate observation decks, check their website before you go to make sure the observation decks are open to tourists.
There are plenty of other attractions surrounding the falls, such as a gift shop, a 2-acre park, numerous trails, and even a candy factory & cafe. If you’re looking to try your luck you can go just down the road to the very popular Snoqualmie Casino where they have 54 game tables and over 1700 slot machines.
Visit the town of Leavenworth
Leavenworth combines a fascinating history with entertainment and european flavor for a one of a kind experience in the inland northwest. An old logging town that ran into trouble in the 1930’s when the railway was rerouted out of town, town leaders of Leavenworth decided in 1960 that they needed to take action to save their beloved town from being deserted. They looked at the surrounding nature and came to the conclusion that it looked nearly identical to Bavaria, so they decided to makeover the town to fit it’s surroundings.
Since the makeover, this little town has become a top tourist destination and now attracts 1 million tourists every year. They host numerous festivals such as the Autumn Leaf Festival, Maifest, and Christmas Lighting Festivals. If you aren’t passing through during one of these festivals there is still nearly endless of unique dining, activities, and amenities that blend northwest and bavarian cultures like nowhere else in the world.
Soap Lake
Soap Lake is an unassuming but fascinating lake that is a must stop if you are into mineral baths and the healing power of nature. The lake isn’t just another body of water with some minerals in it, Soap Lake is known to have the most diverse mineral content of any body of water on earth. The lake was originally carved out from ancient floods, and after thousands of years of ground water leaching through nearby basalt cliffs, the lake is saturated with minerals such as sulfate, carbonate, bicarbonate, sodium, and chloride. The lake is known to have a pH level at or close to 10.0. Another fascinating tidbit is that the lakes water is stratified into layers that don’t mix, and have never mixed throughout its history. Locals and visitors alike have claimed for centuries that the lake leaves their skin feeling soft and smooth, as well as relieving various aches and pains throughout the body.
The Gorge Amphitheatre
When it comes to live music in the northwest United States, The Gorge Amphitheatre is difficult to top. Tucked into the banks of the Columbia River, this venue offers visitors a place to soak in some rays while listening to various genres of music. The real treat is watching the sun slowly drop down behind the stage and behind the Columbia River for one of the better sunsets you will ever see.
Hike in the Cascade Mountains
It’s hard not to be blown away by the Cascade Mountains, especially if you’re traveling west from Spokane where the landscape is relatively barren and flat. Seeing them is one thing, but hiking into the mountains is a whole nother experience. Whether you want to stop for a quick hike to stretch the legs or go on a full-day hike, there is something for everyone. You can find an extensive list of trails here, but some of our top recommendations include, Annette Lake Trail, Talapus Lake Trail, and Margaret Lake Trail.
Looking for more exciting things to do on your trip to Washington, check out our website for other great suggestions!
Spokane may not have a major professional sports team, but there is no shortage of things to do if you are wanting to get your sports fix, both at the amateur and semi-pro levels.
Catch a Zags Game
The Gonzaga Bulldogs (AKA The Zags) men’s basketball is one of the best underdog stories in recent history across all sports, not just college basketball. Up until the mid-90’s Gonzaga was a mediocre regional school that got little to no attention on the national stage, aside from the years when NBA Hall of Famer, John Stockton, played for them in the 80’s. Ever since that time, they have been on a tear that has been nothing but incredible to watch.
Gonzaga was put on the map by their 1998-1999 elite eight run in the NCAA tournament in only their second appearance in the tournament. Since then, they have made every single NCAA tournament with 2 appearances in the National Title Game. Leading the Bulldogs for the bulk of this incredible run is Mark Few who has won numerous coach of the year awards along the way.
What was once an average local ball club has become a national powerhouse. Last year Gonzaga was the #1 ranked team for the entire regular season, a feat that has only been accomplished 2 other times in the last 30 years. 6 players are currently playing in the NBA and likely 3 more will be coming in this year’s draft.
The point is, if you can get your hands on a ticket, the Zags mens basketball team is an absolute must for any sports fan. Not only will the game feature incredible talent, but the atmosphere at McCarthey Athletic Center is one of the most electric in the nation. If you aren’t wanting to spend the money, or simply can’t find a ticket, you can always catch the game at nearby Jack & Dan’s which is close to the university and a known gathering spot for Zags fans.
Hit The Streets At Spokane Hoopfest
Spokane Hoopfest is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world. Every year this tournament attracts over 27,000 players and 7,000 teams to downtown Spokane, where every street is blocked off and transformed into hundreds of courts. Thousands more people come to enjoy the entertainment with attractions such as concerts, numerous food vendors, a slam dunk contest, and a half court shootoff for a Toyota Tundra.
Enjoy The Summer With A Spokane Indians Game
If you’re looking for a more family friendly sporting event, the Spokane Indians is a fun environment for kids and adults during the summer and fall seasons. The Indians are a Minor League Baseball team as a member of the High-A West league. They are a lower minor league team, but still have plenty of talent come through the system, with recent notable players such as Chris Davis, Zack Greinke, Ian Kinsler, and Carlos Beltran.
While the Spokane Indians day job is to groom MLB prospects, they give their fans a whole lot of fun and excitement while doing it. Most sports teams have 1 mascot, the Spokane Indians figured this is woefully inadequate. The Indians currently have 4, yes 4, mascots at their games. Otto The Mascot, who is famed to be the first Spokanasaurus, Doris The Spokanasaurus, Ribby The Redband Trout, who appears in the 7th inning to rally the team and crowd, and Recycleman, who helps recycle over 17,000 pounds of paper, plastic, and aluminum each season. Along with their 4 silly and earth-conscious mascots, the Indians provide gameday promotions, give-aways, and contests for kids to make sure everyone has a memorable time at Avista Field.
Hit The Ice With The Spokane Chiefs
If you’re into hockey, or if you’ve never even been to a hockey game, the Spokane Chiefs will be sure to give you an exciting experience. The Chiefs play in the Western Hockey League and are no strangers to having talent come through their system, with 57 players making it to the NHL along with 5 coaches.
The real excitement is being in the arena, with fans cheering, skates slicing through the ice, the unmistakable horn after a goal, and of course the Zamboni between periods. They also offer plenty of promotions including trips, casino getaways, and princesses & heroes night.
Not a sports fan? Or just looking for other fun things to do in Spokane? Take a look at our other great options here.
The PNW is home to an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. Northwest Washington is home to Skagit County, which is the perfect spot to find fun activities for the whole family this summer. Located in between Seattle, Washington, and the Canadian border, Skagit county touches the Puget Sound and reaches all the way into the North Cascades. With endless room to explore, traveling Skagit county will provide you with excellent indoor and outdoor activities to keep any adventure entertained for a long weekend or maybe a few weeks if you have the time.
Skagit County is expansive! So we have broken down this guide to adventure into three separate parts to help keep your travels organized. Activities to do near the water (the West third of the county), the Valley (the middle third of the county), and the foothills (the Eastside of the county).
Skagit County-What to do near the water
La Conner Washington Kayaking
Skagit County spans through Anacortes and into the Puget Sound, encompassing Guemes Island and Samish Island. This area is ideal for kayaking, boating and fishing, and biking! If you are looking for activities to do on the water, consider getting out in a kayak. There are plenty of rental areas in both La Conner and Anacortes. If you head into La Conner, launch from town and head southwest through the channel. Look for the hole in the wall, and you can paddle through and head into the Skagit Bay. Be prepared to see seals, porpoises, Eagles, and maybe whales, if you are lucky.
Biking Guemes Island
If you want to try your hand at Island life, head to Anacortes and take the ferry to Guemes Island. This tiny ferry will take you on a quick trip across the Guemes Channel over to the island. Guemes is a popular spot to bike. You can circumnavigate the island with views of Samish Bay, Bellingham Channel, the North Cascades, and Mt. Baker on a clear day. The whole island takes just a few hours to bike around, and there are even a few hiking trails that you can stop at on your path.
Deception Pass Bridge and Mt. Erie
A must-see stop is Deception Pass Bridge south of Anacortes. Rosario beach on the northside of the bridge is an excellent spot for a hike or kayaking trip. If you are feeling brave, walk across the bridge for a great view of the Puget sound from the center point. If you are looking for more incredible views of the Sound, consider hiking on MT. Erie. The trails will take you to a high vantage point to see amazing views of Anacortes, Lopez Island, and the ferry crossings.
Washington Park
The perfect place for a sunset picnic near the water is at Washington Park. With picnic tables that line the shore, you will be able to enjoy the sun and the saltwater all in one place. During the summer, this location is busy, so make sure to get here early to grab a table. Watch the Ferries pass to and from the islands, walk the trails or cruise the beach for shells. Washington Park is an excellent stop for all ages and a way to see great water views without having to hike. There is a road that takes you all the way through the park to a viewpoint at the top, so make sure not to miss it on your drive out!
La Conner Shopping
The quaint town of La Conner is not just the perfect place to launch a kayak from. There is a number of great shops to wander through and merchants to talk to. If you head down to the main street, find a parking spot and plan on spending at least a few hours checking out all these shops. Like a farmers market, you’ll want to check out all the offerings and walk down both sides of the sidewalk. If you get hungry during your shopping, pop into one of the many restaurants for a bite to eat or head into the Calico Cupboard at the end of the street for a Coffee or a dizzying array of baked goods to choose from.
Best stops in Skagit Valley, Skagit County
What is commonly referred to as the Skagit Valley is an excellent place for great food, biking, views, and fun. This section spans from Conway to Alger. Starting in Conway, consider heading the Skagit Wildlife Area-Wiley Slough. This area is a bird watcher’s favorite spot! Eagles, Heron, and more are all common sites in this area. You can take a bike ride on the Skagit River Dike to get here, or you can park your right at the wildlife area and walk the short trail out to the water. This area is high in ecological diversity. Take your wildlife ID books with you!
Edison
Food, drinks and more biking. Edison and the Bow, Wa area is a quieter area of the Skagit Valley, home to far lands and sloughs. Edison has a few excellent restaurants that come with great views. Check out Slough foods, where you can eat with a view of the slough and the wetlands beyond. Right next door, be sure to stop into the Bread Farm for fresh bread, cookies, and other baked goods. This entire area is excellent for biking, and if you head west from Edison, you can bike onto Samish Island.
Be sure to drive through the farm fields between Bow and Burlington. In the summertime, stop by From the Farm to get fresh berries: strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, and more accompanied by homemade shortcakes and local goodies. There is plenty of berry stands throughout the Valley. While From the Farm is dedicated to berries from the Skagit Valley, there is a fruit stand in the parking lot of Karl’s Paints & Supplies in Mt. Vernon that hosts peaches, cherries, and apples from Eastern Washington.
The Skagit Valley Casino
Suppose you are looking for a bit of indoor fun; head to Alger, just off I5 to the Skagit Valley Casino. Complete with a hotel, several restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to gamble, the Skagit Valley Casino is an excellent place for some adult fun. This large Casino is the biggest north of Marysville, Washington, which is about an hour south.
Mt. Vernon Farmers Market
In downtown Mt. Vernon on Saturday mornings, you will find the Mt. Vernon farmers market. Right along the Skagit river, vendors from all over the county set up on the embankment to sell food, trinkets, and local gear. If you are looking to support local vendors and buy a few souvenirs to commemorate your visit to Skagit county, this is the perfect stop. After you finish wandering through the farmer’s market, there are a variety of breweries and restaurants to walk to. There are also a few excellent shops to wander through on the main street.
Where to head in the foothills of the Cascades in Skagit County
Sauk Mountain Trail
If you are ready to hike the North Cascades, the Sauk Mountain Trail might be the perfect fit for you. This 4.2-mile-long trail takes you up switchbacks to the top of Sauk Mountain. During the summertime, you can see wildflowers, marmots, chipmunks, and butterflies. This trail gains 1200 feet and reaches a high point elevation of 5500, giving you great views of the rest of the North Cascades mountain range. At the top, there is often snow, so be careful if you want to venture farther than the viewpoint at the top. Bring a lunch and a cold beverage because you will want to spend a while sitting at the top, enjoying the views. This trail sits along highway 20, headed east into the foothills of the Cascades.
Skagit River
The Skagit River runs across the entirety of Skagit County. The river itself begins in southwest British Columbia in Canada and ends by flowing into the Puget Sound. The river is roughly 150 miles long. The Skagit River is the only river in the United States that is home to all five species of salmon. If you are a fishing enthusiast, then look no further. There are plenty of great areas to fish on the river.
If you want to venture just outside of Skagit County, you can follow the river up highway 20 to Diablo Lake, which is a reservoir created by the Diablo dam. The water here is often a picture-perfect blue, and there are plenty of viewpoints along highway 20 to take in the views. The Skagit river also supports one of the largest populations of Bald Eagles in the United States. No matter where you are on the river, you are bound to find lots of fish, birds, and views.
Baker Lake
Just outside of Concrete, Wa, you will find Baker Lake.
Baker Lake is a massive lake situated just inside the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Park. Home to hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, camping, and swimming areas, Baker lake is the perfect summer stop. With stunning views of Mt. Baker and plenty of coves and beaches to explore, it is a favorite place for many people from Skagit County. If you are looking to stay, there are plenty of campgrounds on the lake.
Make sure to take a trip over the dam while you are here! It is definitely worth the drive. Bake lake has a few different swimming areas and public parks that often fill up during the summer months so make sure to grab a parking spot early in the day. If you are looking for a hike, there is a trail on the south side of the lake with incredible views of the mountains and even a few spots to jump in and swim.
Newhalem
If you are driving up HWY over the North Cascades, make sure to stop in Newhalem. This tiny town is the last town on the west side of the mountains and is a great pit stop on your way to Eastern Washington. The family favorite of this iconic stop is the retired train right on the side of the HWY. This historic train is often a playground for young children and their families. Make sure to take a turn ringing the bell attached to the front. If you need a place to stretch your legs, there are a few walking trails and even a campground in this tiny town.
Blue Lake
At the very eastern edge of Skagit County, in the Northern Cascades off highway 20, you can find the Blue Lake trailhead. This trial is a hot spot for day hikers because of its beautiful views. This four-mile roundtrip hike is perfect for almost any ability hiker, and the payoff is huge. The lake is crystal clear during the summertime, and if it’s hot enough outside, you can even take a dip. During the summer, the snow will melt off, and the trail is clear and easy to navigate. If you make the trek during the summer, make sure to come back in the fall to see the Larches!
While many tourists are in Washington to visit Seattle, the Skagit County is a must-see stop just an hour north of the city. With places to play for both ocean and mountain lovers, there is something for everyone. If you are ready to hike, fish, boat, bike, and play in the Sound, you have to make a trip to Skagit County this summer. There is a plethora of tiny towns, ecological diversity, and stunning views. From the Islands all the way into the cascades, the Skagit Valley may be one of the most diverse counties in the PNW. If you are looking for the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Seattle, or you are visiting from another part of the country, make sure to start planning all your stops in Skagit county today!
Takeaway
If you plan to visit Skagit County this summer, these summer activities mentioned above should be on your list! Never underestimate Skagit County as this outdoor playground has lots to offer, and it will only make you fall in love with the PNW even more. To learn more about Skagit County, visit https://cleverneighbor.com/
