Biking Skagit County

Skagit County is an outdoor lover’s dream, with tons of activities available; it can be hard to narrow it down and decide where to go. This detailed guide will give you a rundown of all the best areas to bike in Skagit County. With endless stretches of farmland, beautiful views of the ocean and the local mountain ranges, birding, and more, biking is an excellent summer pastime here in the Skagit Valley. Check out this map for more information on biking in Skagit County and to find the trails referenced below.

Tour De Fur 

As the locals call it, Tour De Fur is a bike trip that circumnavigates part of Fir Island. This area of Skagit County is known for its birding, constantly changing farm fields, and views. There is plenty of routes that you can take to experience Fir Island by bike, but many people go to the west side of the Conway bridge, across the Skagit River, and park in the parking lot on the right-hand side of the road.

From here, you will cross the main road and hope on the dike, riding southeast. Stay on the dike until you hit the Skagit Wildlife Area-Wiley Slough. This is an excellent spot to take a pit stop and enjoy the birding if you would like. There are often Bald Eagles flying overhead here. Follow Wylie Rd out to Fir Island Road. Take a left on Dry Slough Road and keep riding. Enjoy the Stunning views on a clear day and take in the farmland, slough and flat ground! You can either turn at Moore Rd and then at Skagit City Fir Rd or stay on Dry Slough Road all the way until it turns into Skagit City Fir Road. Both routes will lead you back to the parking lot. 

This trail is mostly backroads in the farmland, and traffic should be light. Be careful, though, for your short stint on Fir Island Road, as this is a 50mph zone with heavy traffic. 

Coast to Cascades 

The Coast to Cascades route begins in Anacortes, Washington. You follow mostly roads from Anacortes all the way to Sedro-Woolley Washington. In Sedro-Wooley, you can join the Cascade Trail. The Cascade trail runs 22.5 miles in length and connects Sedro-Wooley to Concrete. The trail runs parallel to State Route 20. This trail is a gravel trail, and there are several benches and port-a-potties along the trail. This is a great way to go all the way from the ocean to the foothills of the Mountains. Many people continue on HWY 20 and bike up the pass.

While the Cascade trail is a gravel trail with no car access, the route from Anacortes to the trailhead is only roads. Pay attention to your surroundings while on the roads, and always remember to follow the bike laws. This trail is relatively flat and can be done by a wide variety of biking abilities. 

Coast Millennium Route 

If you are looking to stay near the water for your entire bike ride, consider taking the Coast Millennium Route. The Coast Millennium route Begins in Stanwood, Washington, and heads north to Conway before heading West through Fir Island and La Conner. From La Conner, this route takes you straight north along the waterline through Bayview, Edison, and to Bellingham.

This route is currently around 50 miles long but sits entirely on roadways. There are currently plans to add bike lanes to the trail’s entirety and expand the path to the Canadian Border and south to California. This route is semi-flat but gets more hilly in the Bayview area and extremely hilly if you choose to take the trail out of Skagit County and North to Bellingham. This is an excellent route for those who want views of the Puget Sound and Padilla bay on their route, as well as the occasional view of Mt. Baker and the cascades and frequent views of the Olympics. 

Centennial route 

The Centennial Route is 30 miles of completed trail stretching from Skagit to Snohomish County. This path is a ten-foot-wide multi-purpose paved trail that goes through a conservation corridor that protects sensitive and important natural and cultural resources. This trail connects Snohomish, Lake Stevens, Arlington, and many points in between. The trail is designed for biking, skating, skateboarding and longboarding, and equestrian use. This trail is exceptionally popular because it is flat, inaccessible to cars, and good for people of all ages and physical ability. Views on this trail include waterways, Mountains, wooded areas, old railroads, and more.   

Guemes Island 

Guemes Island is the only island in Skagit County that is accessible by ferry. The ferry, leaving from Anacortes, is a quick 5-10 minute journey and can be completed by walking on or driving a car onto the ferry. Once off the ferry, you can take the main roads all the way around the island. Most people ride counterclockwise and take the main road along the beach on the island’s south side before cutting north.

The Guemes Mountain Conservation area lies to the east, and you will ride past the Guemes Mountain trail on your ride. If you want to get in a hike as well, chain your bike to the stand at the trailhead and complete the 2.2-mile trail before continuing on your ride. While Guemes Island is only 8 square miles, there is a significant amount of hills. The first mile and a half of your ride will be flat, and the rest will be a rollercoaster of giant climbs followed by steep downhill sections.  

Biking Guemes Island

There is no bike path on Guemes Island, so you will just be following the exterior roads for your ride. While traffic is normally light in the off-season, summertime can bring a lot of seasonal traffic, so beware of that and possible long ferry lines when you plan your trip.

Tommy Thompson- 3.3 mile paved Anacortes 

The Tommy Thompson trail is a 6.6 mile round trip trail that starts at the Port of Anacortes. The trail has excellent views of Mt. Baker, Fidalgo Bay and also features lots of blue Heron is the tide is low. This is a paved trail and is very flat, making it manageable for many bikers. You will have waterfront views for much of this trail, making it a great addition to this guide. 

More Biking the Skagit Valley

There are plenty of other areas to bike in Skagit County. The flats that run from Fir Island to Edison offer miles of excellent road biking. This area is exceptionally flat and gives riders lots to look at. With several Mountain ranges, farm animals, changing crops, birding, and waterfront views, you can always expect to see at least a few fellow riders.  

While this guide only included road and flat biking, there are several mountain biking areas in the county range from the easy levels to more challenging. Be sure to follow signage and pay attention to the vehicle and possible horse traffic wherever you go. 

Thank you for visiting Skagit Clever Neighbor. We are pleased to continue to bring you exciting activities for your trip to Skagit County.

Lakes in Skagit County

There are so many unique spots in Skagit County to beat the heat and swim, kayak, or even fish. With several rivers, lakes, and even access to the Puget Sound, there is a water activity for everyone. While temperatures remain modest in Skagit County in the summertime, coastal humidity can make the area feel hot! Whether you are planning your summer vacation to the pacific northwest or you are a local looking for a new adventure, this guide will help you decide on the best activities on the water for you this summer. 

Whether you have a whole family to entertain or are looking for some quiet time by yourself this summer, Skagit County is the place to come. With over 100 lakes, two major rivers, three Islands, and miles of coastline, you are guaranteed to find an activity that suits you.  

Anacortes kayaking 

Kayaking in Anacortes

Anacortes is the entrance to the San Juan Islands. If you are looking for a saltwater adventure, Anacortes Kayak Tours may be for you. The Anacortes Kayaking Tour company requires no previous kayaking experience. You will kayak around Burrows Island and several other small islands in the area. The San Juan Islands are known for Bald Eagles, seals, porpoises, deer, and sometimes orcas, grey whales, or humpbacks.  

These trips are family-friendly and guided by knowledgeable staff that will help you get comfortable in your kayak. Depending on the direction your group takes, you may get stunning views of the Olympic Mountain Range, the North Cascades, Mt. Baker, or Mt. Rainer. Kayaking is suitable for all levels of physical fitness, and is a great way to get out on the water. Kayaking tours start at just $79 for adults and are sure to be a highlight of your summer adventures.  

Multi-Day Kayaking Trips

Suppose you are a more adventurous kayaker or have more time to spend. In that case, the Anacortes Kayak Tours co offers multi-day Island hopping tours that feature camping. Multi-day tours also feature even more exceptional views with 6 hours of kayaking a day. The San Juan’s experience many days of sun and good weather during the summer months. Another fun option is the bioluminescent night tour. Bioluminescent organisms light up the water and offer an incredible kayak experience. This trip is weather and condition dependent but is another option for a unique adventure to beat the heat.

Rosario Beach/ Deception pass 

If you are looking for a saltwater experience with excellent views, Rosario Beach in Skagit County is great. Rosario beach is connected to Bowmans Bay, a small bay home to seals, birds, calm water, hiking, and more. 

There is a small boat launch at Rosario beach perfect for launching kayaks. You can also paddleboard to cruise around the bay area. Head out toward the large rocks at the mouth of the bay! You may see seals, porpoises, or starfish on the rock itself. The bay usually has very calm water making it the perfect place to paddle or kayak for all levels. You can also often find remote control boat races happening during the summer months at Bowman’s Bay.  

There are a number of hikes at Rosario Beach that offer views of the Salish Sea and Deception pass. In the channel facing Deception Pass, you can occasionally see Orcas passing by. While the saltwater is cold, Rosario Beach is a great place to dip your toes. Walk the beach to look at crabs, beach rocks, and other sea life. 

Washington park 

Washington Park is a great water location for those who don’t necessarily want to get wet. With a cool breeze blowing in off the water, Washington Park is usually several degrees cooler than the rest of the county. Washington Park is arguably one of the best locations in the entire county to watch the sunset during the summer months. There is a number of picnic tables facing the water with park BBQs available. 

Washington Park has both a large grassy area, perfect for picnics, as well as a beach and several viewpoints. If you are looking for a place to beat the heat and spend an afternoon, this is an excellent option for families, couples, and solo adventures. Parking is free, and there is also a public boat launch if you are in need of one. 

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 excellent for fishing, swimming, boating, and fishing.

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. The Skagit River is home to great fishing for Silvers, King salmon, Stealhead’s, and more. Many people fish from boats, but there are plenty of areas to fish from the shore as well in the Skagit Valley.

Diablo Lake on the Skagit 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.  

Swimming in the Skagit River can be hazardous, so please pick carefully where you might want to take a dip. As you travel up highway 20 toward lake Diablo, there are a few safe swimming areas. Be aware that snowmelt and rain can drastically affect the water levels and how fast the water is moving. 

Lakes

There are 137 lakes in Skagit County. From high alpine lakes to calm residential watering holes, there is plenty of excellent areas to cool off in the area and beat the heat.  

Lakes in Skagit County
Lakes in Skagit County

Whistle Lake

For cliff jumping, swimming and hiking, head to Anacortes to Whistle Lake. This lake is popular during the summer months because of its array of cliffs overhanging the lake, bringing in young adventures for the cliffs. Jumping. If you are looking for a nice place to float, this lake usually has plenty of lake-side spots to set up a day camp and is quiet and protected in a wooded area. It is an excellent place to lounge on a floaty for the day.  

Lake Shannon

Lake Shannon is a great place to kayak, boat, jet ski, paddleboard, and swim. This lake is near Concrete, Washington, and offers stunning views of Mt. Baker. With a public boat launch and plenty of beachside nooks to hide out in, Lake Shannon is one of the best lakes for water toys. It is large and offers enough room for boats and kayakers to enjoy the lake. If you are ready for a day at the lake, pack a lunch and paddle your way to the best shoreline spots. 

Hidden Lake

If you are looking for a trek to get to your cool-off spot, Hidden Lake is the lake for you. This 8 mile- out and back hike offers stunning views of the north cascades and a great way to enjoy new areas of Skagit county. Hidden lake is located at the top of the hike and is a great place to have lunch and enjoy the 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, and swimming areas. 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. Bake lake has a few different swimming areas and public parks that often fill up during the summer months, so 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. Bake Lake is known for its trout fishing, and fisherman cruise the edges of the lake during the summertime for trout and bass. 

Sauk River 

 Sauk River is a 45-mile long river that drains a high area of the North Cascades. This river flows into the Skagit River, but it is known for its snowmelt and icy cold water year-round. The Sauk River is a popular rafting location. With plenty of class 3 and 4 rapids, it is the perfect intermediate wilderness adventure. 

Rafting Sauk River

If you are looking for an adventure in the water, check out Triad River Tours to book your rafting adventure for this summer. Rafting trips start at 85 dollars and offer a 1.5-2.5 hour raft trip with stunning mountain views. Rafting is an excellent way to get on the water and beat the heat.

Sauk river is also known for its fly fishing. The river is remote and offers exceptional views and stunning waters. The locals identify the perfect fly fishing when the water turns a clear green. If you are ready for fly fishing in the great wilderness of the foothills of the cascades, Sauk River is the stop for you. 

Beat the Heat on the coast

There are miles of coast in Skagit County and even a few islands Guemes Island, Cypress Island, and Sinclair, make a trifecta of bliss as you head into the Islands. If you are looking to take in the views and experience Island life, head to Guemes Island. You will cross a short waterway by ferry from Anacortes and land on the tiny Island. Guemes is only 8 square miles and offers stunning views of the cascades and the sound. If you have a boat or kayak, consider doing an Island tour of these three Islands to enjoy the ocean breeze and beat the heat. These islands are close enough together that you can kayak or boat around them and spend the day taking in the views, watching the seals and birds, and fellow boaters. 

Samish Island and Padilla Bay are also part of the Skagit Valley; both of these locations offer a number of beachfront areas to launch kayaks, fish, and cruise the beaches for crabs. While Samish Island is largely private property, Padilla Bay has a fantastic walking trail that sits just on the edge of the water. It is a great place to enjoy the cool air from the water, go bird watching, and watch the tide come in and out. 

Skagit County has countless places to cool off by the water and beat the heat. Skagit County has you covered whether you are looking for a salty breeze by the ocean, a lake day, or a wilderness river adventure. There is no end to the exceptional views or adventures that you can have on the water in the area. If you want to fish, kayak, swim, or simply hang by the water’s edge, you don’t have to choose. With so many options all in one county, you could start your morning rafting in the foothills of the Cascades and end the day enjoying the sunset over the ocean. 

There is always more to do and see in the Skagit Valley, so make sure to check back in to plan your next stop.  

For the past year Wanda Degolier “Plant Whisperer” and her team of indoor plant specialist have been rooting and reviving everything in Tacoma area.

“What makes us different is that I am able to help your plants back to health and I want to teach you how to allow your plants to live a fulfilled life.”

Wanda is the owner of 8Rs Indoor Plant Specialist, a Colorado native, born and raised, now a Tacoma fan and call home after the last 20 years.

Local Biz Hero Giving Us a Breath of Fresh Air

Wanda is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to her community. From being laid off because of the pandemic, she rooted herself with nature. After reviving a whole room of plants, ,she wanted to bless the community with nature. If your business or home needs new plants or someone to care for them, Wanda is the one to contact. Serving businesses all over the South Sound with splash of greenery and fresh air.

Every dollar that Wanda makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as her family supports our community by “giving us a breath of fresh air.

Full-Service Plant Hospital – Indoor Plant Specialist

We sat down with Wanda for a quick interview –

Why do you do what you do?

“I was a plant lady before I started my business. When I was laid off and found those dead plants, I knew I had to do something. I have been given the name “Plant Whisperer” because of my ways with the plants.”

How did you get into this profession?

“I wanted to give locals a bit of nature everywhere they went. Now i help many businesses with their plants and upkeep. I like to educate locals on the caring of plants. Empowering them to do it for themselves.

Being a gardener who works directly with many people, we asked her what is the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job?

“Over the last year, more often than none, I’ll have locals ask me how to care for certain plants. They would be receiving them from recently deceased loved ones that have been caring for them for years. It’s weird but it is a way for them have something of theirs to remember them by. “

If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a plant service, what would it be?

“I am a full-service plant hospital. You bring me your sick plants and I will do my best to revive them. We also do on sight estimates. We want to keep people healthy through plants. “

Indoor Plant Specialist

For those of you who are looking for a professional plant specialist, Wanda and her R8s Indoor Plant Specialist should be your first choice. Call Wanda at 253-678-8547 or visit www.8-Rs.com/ – Giving you a breath of fresh air!

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 40 years Vaughn Wray and his “upside down” ways, have been contracting in Tacoma, WA and beyond. With over 100 new homes completed in his experience, W. H. Construction will promise you it will make a difference.

“What makes us different is that having 40 years’ experience makes a difference in contracting.”

Vaughn is the owner of W. H. Construction Co., a PNW native, born and raised, and of course loving the Tacoma weather.  I love being by the water too.

Local Biz Hero – Contracting in Tacoma, WA

Vaughn is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to his community. Through decades of experience, contracting in Tacoma, WA could not be easier.

Every dollar that Vaughn makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as W. H. Construction supports the community through giving everyone a fair price that can still result in a professional and prideful finished job.

We sat down with Vaughn for a quick interview –

Why do you do what you do?

“I loved the design work in construction. It challenged me to be better.”

How did you get into this profession?

“When I decided to build my first home. My home is famous for the upside down characteristics. The garage is on the top floor. During that phase of my life, I had a local architect ask me to bid in his project he wanted done. After knowing what I could do, he hired me on the spot and completed beyond his expectations. I knew then I would be able to do this as a business.”

Choosing a Contractor

Being a contractor Vaughn works directly with many people, we asked him what’s the hobby he loves most? “I love cruising on the Sound in my boat. It’s so relaxing. I truly look forward to the days being on the water. “

If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a contractor, what would it be?

“To me, experience matters. Ask many questions before hiring anyone. If you want my opinion on the job, call me I would love to serve you. “

For those of you who are looking for a professional contractor for any type of home remodel or new build work, Vaughn and the W. H. Construction team should be your first choice. Call Vaughn at 253-381-7622 or visit www.whconstructionco.com – Seriously Experienced!

For the past handful of years, Thomas Fuller and his Olmec Agro-Tech team have been Teaching Us to Make Food Sexy with Olmec Agro-Tech.

“What makes us different is that of we teach for Entrepreneurs and Producers to live a life of independence.”

Thomas and his two children, both grown, love living in the Tacoma area. The small town atmosphere with a cosmopolitan feel through the districts are enjoyable all around. Thomas is the Founder of Omlc Agro-Tech, a military family, born and raised, he loved the travel side when they would move. He always came back to Tacoma where he calls home.

Local Biz Hero

Thomas is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur and philanthropist who brings true value to his community. Teaching our next generation life values and habits to live a life of independence and true sustainability.

Every dollar that Thomas makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as Olmec Agro-Tech supports the Pierce Harvest and the Wilco Farm Supply for their continued help and support to their ongoing mission.

You are What You Eat Tacoma, WA

We sat down with Thomas for a quick interview –

Why do you do what you do?

“I am able to serve my community and live a fulfilled life. Teaching others how to live a life of independence is a blessing.”

How did you get into this profession?

“I wanted to teach my son the values I thought were needed to be successful in life. Together we created entrepreneurship and producer to build his future. To live a life of independence. You are who you eat. Evoke joy from all sensory projections. Teaching Us to Make Food Sexy with Olmec Agro-Tech.”

Being an agriculture philanthropist and entrepreneur, Thomas works directly with many people. We asked him what’s the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job?

“Experiencing different thinking and outlooks that were not customizing to Tacoma, WA. Learning outside your box. We need to stop this thinking that a person is not respected for having their own opinion.”

What did you learn from it?

“This changed my life to be kinder and wiser simultaneously through each action I take.“

If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a non profit to support, what would it be?

“Understand we are family owned. We instill values to our community to thrive on independence while using our resource right under our feet. Learn from us and go teach others how to use our resources for their families.“

Life of Independence with Olmec Agro-Tech

For those of you who are looking for the knowledge for sustainable living for a life of independence, Thomas and the Olmec Agro-Tech team should be your first choice. Olmec Agro-Tech supports our community through partnerships with the country on food production and emergency services disaster relief program. Call Thomas at 253-620-0196, or visit www.olmecagro-tech.org – “Keep It Constructive!”

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!

If you’re in Spokane and looking for a fun event for the whole family, the Spokane Indians are a great option during the summer and fall months. The Spokane Indian’s are a minor league team that offers major league fun with talented players, unique mascots, and gameday promotions that give the fans a memorable experience.

Spokane Indians Background

The Indians are a Minor League Baseball team as a member of the High-A West league and are an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. Formerly a triple-A team, they are  now in the lower minor division, 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.

Many Unique Mascots

The Spokane Indians are just as focussed on giving their fans an amazing experience as they are with winning baseball games. One of the ways they do this is by having one of the deepest rosters of mascots in all of sports.

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.

Family Fun Event’s 

The Spokane Indians hospitality towards their fans doesn’t just stop with silly mascots. Avista Field offers a host of promotional nights where fans can win prizes, receive free gear and memorabilia, and even win cold hard cash. They bring the show no matter what the score of the game, with special nights such as firework night, carnival night, and baseball bingo. Whether you are looking to host a business event, birthday party, or just get out of the house and enjoy the sunshine with your family, the Spokane Indians are a must see attraction in Spokane.

Looking for other activities in Spokane? Check out our other articles here.

Mike Tigas from Spokane, WA, United States, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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