Fall Foliage in Skagit County

Seasonal Activities in Skagit Valley

Fall Foliage in Skagit County– Where to Hike for Blazing Colors

The season of cozy sweaters, all things pumpkin spice, and of course, the explosion of color in nature is upon us! Skagit County is a prime spot to witness this vibrant transformation, with fiery reds, sunny yellows, and every shade in between.

But what makes the leaves change color? It’s a simple, yet beautiful process. As the days get shorter and cooler, trees get less sunlight, causing the green chlorophyll in their leaves to break down. This reveals the bright yellow and orange pigments that were already there, just hiding all summer long! Regardless of the science, the result is a brilliantly colorful palette that’s just begging to be explored throughout magical Skagit.

And where is the best place to find these glorious colors in Skagit County? The North Cascades, with their high elevation and stunning vistas, are a great place to start.

Sedro – Woolley & Concrete

But before you hit the trails, a stop in the charming towns of Sedro-Woolley and Concrete is a must. These towns aren’t just convenient stops for a pre-hike meal or to grab a coffee, they’re where adventure begins.

Sedro-Woolley, known as the gateway to the North Cascades has a long logging history, and Concrete, known for its cement manufacturing past ( note the iconic cement Silos as you enter town) embodies the hard-working, rugged spirit of this area. Grab a hearty breakfast at Joy’s Bakery to fuel up for the days adventure and stop in at Sedro Woolley Department of Forestry for a chat with a seasoned ranger about trail conditions before you head out to chase those legendary golden larches.

Here are three hikes along the scenic North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20) that will get you started and leave you breathless.

Heather- Maple Pass Loop

This loop trail in the North Cascades National Forest is approximately 7.2 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet, making it a moderate-to-hard hike. But trust us, the effort is worth it! Hiking the ridgeline offers stunning views all year, but in the autumn months, this trail becomes ablaze with color as the larches turn a brilliant golden hue. You’ll find these brilliant yellow larches lining the lakesides, creating a magical scene. Starting at the trailhead, you’ll hike through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to meadows and the uppermost ridgeline near Maple Pass. This part of the trail is steeper and can see snow late into the season, so be prepared!

Blue Lake

For a shorter, more family-friendly option, the Blue Lake trailhead sits right off Hwy 20. This easy-to-moderate hike is 4.5 miles roundtrip with a 1,050-foot elevation gain. It’s a splendid trail for a quick and easy jaunt into a pristine forest, accompanied by breathtaking mountain lake views. The beginning of the trail features several boardwalks leading into tree-lined areas before opening into some meadowland. As you get closer to the lake, you’ll hear the bubbling sounds of running water from overflow streams. Once you reach the lake, find a cozy rock and simply soak in the beauty of the lake as the larches and maples change color with the season.

Washington Pass Lookout

If you’re short on time but still want to take in the views, continue east on Hwy 20 for just under a mile and you’ll find the Washington Pass Lookout.

This vantage area is a quarter-mile paved trail that takes you to a lookout point with stunning views of Liberty Bell Mountain. It’s accessible to everyone, including wheelchairs, making it a great stop for the whole family. During the autumn months, these peaks appear dotted with fiery color, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some unforgettable photos.

Returning to town, be sure to treat yourself to a much-deserved ice cream at Act One Ice Cream Parlor, located on the quaint main street of Concrete, or if you prefer a cold brew and some down time with friends, pop into Birdsview Brewing to quench your thirst.

Pro Tip: Downloading and saving directions and/or maps from the Washington Trails Association before you head out is wise advise. Many app-based directions are unreliable, and cell service can be spotty in the mountains. Also, be prepared for adventure as well as the elements. Fall weather in the PNW mountains can change in an instant, so pack extra warm layers, rain gear, and don’t forget your water bottle!

MaryRose Denton

is a freelance travel writer who grew up in Seattle and now calls Skagit Valley her home. She enjoys writing about local culture, PNW history, and the state’s rich agriculture, along with sustainability and wellness adventures. Her work can be seen in Seatlle Refined, Edible Seattle, NW Travel & Life, State of Washington Tourism, Next Adventue Magazine, the Irish Independent, and her blog MerakiTravels.org