3- Day Outdoorsy Itinerary
3- Day Outdoorsy Itinerary
An Adventurous Guide to Skagit County
From whale- watching to hiking, to exploring the North Cascades, this itinerary is perfect for a weekend getaway of exploration, good eats and even some bucket- list- checking activities! Even better is that all of these can be done year- round, meaning you can enjoy the Skagit scenery no matter the season.
Day 1: Hiking and Exploring Mount Vernon
Start your adventure in Mount Vernon, a destination with something for everyone—whether you’re outdoorsy, a foodie, a shopper, or somewhere in between. In the spring, it’s famous for hosting the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, but its winding country roads, mountain views, and downtown charm make it a beautiful place to visit year-round.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Calico Cupboard, known for it’s made-from-scratch menu that will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
Next, head to Little Mountain Park for a short but rewarding hike. This 1.5-mile round-trip trail gains 934 feet in elevation and offers stunning views of Skagit Valley, the San Juan Islands, and the Olympic Mountains from the top.
Spend the afternoon strolling through downtown Mount Vernon. Quaint brick buildings and a scenic sidewalk along the Skagit River create the perfect setting for a leisurely walk. Grab a bite or drink at spots like District Brewing, which offers beautiful views of the water.
Explore some of the unique local shops that line the downtown streets. Don’t miss Easton Books, Dilly Dally Antiques, and Lost in the Groove Music & Video for fun finds and great window shopping. Try some award- winning chocolates at Forte Chocolates or pick up some unique souvenirs at Lido Collective for locally sourced gifts and art.
For the glampers, check out the Postcard Cabins just 20 minutes from Downtown Mount Vernon for a unique, woodsy stay at these modern, box- shaped cabins.
Other Stays in Mount Vernon: The Quality Inn, Tulip Inn, The Gooserosa Bed and Breakfast and more.
A Day in The North Cascades
Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the North Cascades, a national park that’s free to visit and packed with hiking trails and alpine lakes.
Drive along State Route 20 from Sedro- Woolley toward Ross Lake, and stop at the Diablo Lake Overlook for a stunning view of turquoise waters—no hiking required. It is an iconic viewpoint that is a must- stop if you’re visiting the North Cascades.
If you’re in the mood for more adventure, try the Diablo Lake Trail, a 7-mile loop that takes about 3.5 to 4 hours to complete. Summer is the perfect season for this moderately challenging hike. It’s popular but not overcrowded and features lush rainforest vegetation, scenic views and plenty of spots to pause and take it all in.
Triad River Tours is a must if you want to do some whitewater rafting in the North Cascades. It’s kid, beginner and family- friendly and perfect for a memorable adventure.
After your hike, refuel at Upriver Grill & Taproom in Marblemount. Their menu is filled with classic American fare made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients—ideal after a day on the trails.
On your way back toward I-5, consider stopping at Rasar State Park in Concrete. It’s the perfect rest stop to skip stones, snack by the river, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of towering fir trees. If you’re still hungry or thirsty the Lyman Tavern near by serves up cold beverages, good eats and is family-friendly!
Stays in Concrete and Marblemount: Ovenell Heritage Inn, North Cascades Inn, Mount Baker Hotel and More
Whale Watching and Sight- Seeing in Anacortes
Like Mount Vernon, Downtown Anacortes is full of charming shops and restaurants. But what makes it truly special is its location right on the water—ideal for whale watching, ocean breezes, and seaside exploration.
Start your day with a whale watching tour—a bucket-list experience, and a year-round activity. Humpback whales travel thousands of miles from Hawai’i, Mexico, and Central America each year to visit the waters surrounding Skagit Valley. The Salish Sea is one of the best places in the world to spot orcas, humpbacks, and porpoises. Check out local tour operators in Anacortes to book your trip.
Prefer lakes over ocean waves? Just a 5-minute drive from downtown is Heart Lake, a serene spot for paddleboarding and kayaking. It’s a quiet escape with stunning mountain views.
Up for a little more effort? Drive about 30 minutes to Whistle Lake in the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. After a short hike, you’ll reach a tranquil lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and soaking in the lush forest scenery.
After your outdoor adventures, treat yourself to a great meal. Try Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery for lively vibes and craft beer, A-Town Bistro for a refined farm-to-table experience, or Adrift Restaurant for fresh, locally sourced seafood.
End the day with a sunset at Cap Sante Lookout. This drive-up viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of Cap Sante Marina, Fidalgo Bay, and Mount Baker—an unforgettable way to wrap up your Skagit getaway.
Places to Stay in Anacortes: The Majestic Inn and Spa, Anacortes Inn, Fidalgo Country Inn and more.