The Mountains Are Calling

Warm pine needles, fresh air, cool stream water, and the squeak of the elusive pika: summer feels best in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

Explore the Mountain Loop Highway, a 52-mile route via old railways, now a scenic byway. Expect stunning alpine lakes, ghost towns, towering timbers, and sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains #TruePNW style.

Check out the resources section below for information on passes, offline navigation, and tips for recreating responsibly.

Your PNW Mountain Weekend Starts Here

Nestled in the foothills of the North Cascades, Granite Falls is the southern gateway to the scenic Mountain Loop Highway and is the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventures.

This is your destination for fishing, hiking, and camping. Fuel up with breakfast at Lyla’s Cafe, specializing in brunchy pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Need camping supplies or permits? Your best bet is one block away at the Ace Hardware. The nearby Granite Falls Historical Museum offers a look into the mining and timber felling history of the area. On your way out of town, stop at the I.G.A. to stock your cooler. There aren’t any hotels in this neck of the woods, so AirBnB cabins or camping are your best bets. The scent of the evergreens, views of snowy peaks (yes, even in summer)... that’s the life. Enjoy the view and the starry night skies! The coming day will bring you a full PNW summer hiking experience.

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Hiking to Heather Lake and Beyond

Heather Lake is one of several alpine lakes on the slopes of Mount Pilchuck. It’s in a cirque, surrounded by mountainous walls.

Somewhere between an easy and moderate hike, making it accessible for most everyone, one could argue that Heather Lake is the ideal day hike in the North Cascades. Follow a bumpy, forest road to the base of the trail. From the trailhead, it’s a relatively easy 4.6-mile round trip hike up to Heather Lake and back. Ascend through subalpine forests, up switchbacks to arrive at the lake. You can walk all the way around Heather Lake, getting amazing views of this backcountry body of water. In the height of summer, it’s worth jumping in and taking a swim to cool off before you head back down the trail. Hungry? You will be. Your best dining options back in Granite Falls include Playa Bonita or Omega Pizza & Pasta.

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Explore the Mountain Loop

Arlington | Darrington | Granite Falls

Mt Pilchuck | Verlot | Lake 22 | Big Four Ice Caves | Heather Lake | Monte Cristo Ghost Town | North Mountain Fire Lookout | North Mountain MTB Trails | Verlot Ranger Station | Darrington Ranger Station | Granite Falls AirBnB Cabins | Mountain Loop Campgrounds | Northwest Forest Pass | Discover Pass | Seattle Paine Field International Airport

Lyla's Cafe | Omega Pizza & Pasta | Playa Bonita Mexican Restaurant | Granite Falls Ace Hardware | I.G.A Market | Granite Falls Historical Museum

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Resources for Recreating Responsibly

Recreating Responsibly is more than a reminder to stay on designated trails, to pack out what we pack in, or to minimize human impact on our natural resources and surroundings. To us, it’s a commitment – some might say an obligation – to preserve and protect, repair and restore, and to leave Mother Nature in a better state than we found it. It’s a way of life for those of us who call Seattle NorthCountry home, and we ask and expect the same from those who visit. Please enjoy responsibly!

Thank You

OUTDOOR BEST PRACTICES

10 OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS

The Mountain Loop Tour App

Download the “Mountain Loop Tour” from the App Store or Google Play. It covers trailhead information, campgrounds, historic sites, and other attractions on the Mountain Loop and will provide geo-alerts and driving directions, even when there is no cell service.

Pro Tip: many areas on the Mountain Loop have limited or no cell phone service, so download the app before you go.

Seattle NorthCountry Hiking Guide

A guide to some of the best hikes in the PNW. Hikes on National Forest lands require a Northwest Forest Pass at the trailhead. Be sure to purchase before you hit the trail. Hikes on State Park lands require a Discover Pass. These are good at all state parks, DNR lands, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife properties. Purchase online here.

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Stories From the Mountain Loop

Endless adventure awaits. Get local insights on scenic hikes, where to find great eats, the best places to get "lost" for a few days, mountain culture, and much, much more by exploring these great reads.

5 Places For Great Eats In Darrington
Mountain Loop Highway
A Weekend In Arlington
A Weekend In Granite Falls
North Mountain: Climb to the Lookout and Help Preserve It
5 Places to Dine in Granite Falls