recreate-responsibly

Three National Parks, One Destination

Recreate by day with visits to North Cascades, Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks, then return to your basecamp in Snohomish County to enjoy cozy lodging and elevated cuisine by night.

Not only does Snohomish County provide a picturesque visit with its breathtaking vistas and mountains-to-sea reach, but it also gives visitors unbeatable access to some of the country's most beautiful National Parks. Located within driving distance of North Cascades National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and Olympic National Park, Snohomish County is the ideal gateway destination for park exploration.

Caring for Our National Parks and Forests: How Visitors Can Help

Responsible recreation is at the core of Snohomish County’s mission and encourages you to learn more about taking care of our National Parks and reminds you to secure reservations where required.

Our national parks, forests, and public lands are some of the most beautiful places to explore — but they need our help. With staffing and resources limited in many areas, visitors can play an important role in keeping these special places clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weekend hike or a longer adventure, here are a few simple ways you can make a positive impact.

NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY

A quick 1.5-hour drive from downtown Everett, North Cascades National Park is home to 312 glaciers, over 500,000 square miles, over 500 lakes and ponds, 236,000 square acres of old-growth forests, 75 mammal species, and 28 fish species. Enjoy!

HIGHLIGHTS
Diablo Lake – A glacial-green lake visible from the road. The Diablo Lake Trail takes hikers up the slopes of Sourdough Mountain for incredible views deep into the Cascade Mountains.
Visitor Center – A must-visit for interpretive centers, educational films, knowledgeable rangers, and all of the National Parks swag you can pack into your carry-on.
Top 3 Easy Access Trails
Great Eats in Everett

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MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY

Located about 2 hours from Lynnwood, Mount Rainier National Park, has access to the highest point in the state, at 14,411’. Mount Rainier is a stratovolcano towering in the sky, with more than 25 glaciers. It was called “Taquoma” in Twulshootseed by the indigenous Tulalip Tribe. Taquoma means “the mother of all waters.”

HIGHLIGHTS
The Wonderland Trail – A Pacific Northwest classic.
Sunrise Center, Sunrise Peak – The highest vehicle-accessible peak in the park at 6,000 feet, offering incredible wildflower meadow views.
West Side Loop
Lodging Options + Cost Saving Hacks
International Cuisine in Lynnwood

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OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY

Did we save the best for last? We’ll let you decide. Hop the ferry from Edmonds for a direct route to Olympic National Park with a total travel time of 3.5 hours. Home to over 2,319 miles that range from wild coastline and towering peaks, to waterfalls and a temperate rainforest you’ll have to see to believe.

HIGHLIGHTS
Sol Duc Falls – An iconic waterfall accessed through old-growth forest.
Hoh Rainforest Hall of Mosses – Yes, it’s every bit as Lord of the Rings as it sounds.
Coastal Experiences/Ruby Beach – Looking west to catch a sunset, you discover that you’re peering out over the very cusp of the continent.
Ferry Riding 101 – An argument could be made that the ferry ride alone is worth the trip.
Coastal Cabins + Coffee

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Recreate 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 to keeping Snohomish County and the region sustainable as both a destination and a home. As such, it’s our 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 this area home, and we ask and expect the same from those who visit. Please enjoy responsibly! -Thank You

Basecamp Essentials