Walk 1/1 Northern State Recreation Area
Thursday, January 1, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
5 miles, minimal elevation gain.
Meet at Everett Station Park & Ride Lot --
B
Let's kick off 2026 by enjoying a healthy walk at this 700-acre Skagit County Parks property in the countryside near Sedro Woolley. This recreation area is not merely a place to hike near a former state mental hospital. In recent years, dramatic improvements have been made here, turning this into a top notch trail system with some excellent facilities and outstanding trails. You'll get to experience some beautiful forest trails, some views of the Cascade Foothills and Skagit Valley, and chances to see a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Expected Conditions:
I'm not aware of any problems with access or trail conditions here after the flooding, so I expect this trip to go as planned. There could be some wet or muddy sections typical of this time of year, and if it's at or below freezing, we could see some icy or snowy bits of trail. We'll hike a loop route around the trail system, which is generally in excellent shape, much of it being relatively newly-built.
Other Considerations:
Wear good traction hiking shoes or boots, the more waterproof, the better. Poles may or may not be necessary, depending on your preference. Pack food and water in your pack and plan to have a lunch break out on the trail.
I need all trip participants to update and submit a Hold Harmless Form for 2025. Click here to go to the form page.