Groups looking to experience some of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacular scenery can find the perfect home base in Snohomish County, which is ideally located between three of Washington’s national parks: North Cascades, Mount Rainier, and Olympic national parks. In addition to being conveniently located an hour north of Seattle, Snohomish County is a hub of unforgettable outdoor adventures, vibrant waterfront offerings, exceptional culinary experiences, and many group lodging options.
Some 90 minutes from Snohomish County’s largest city and county seat, Everett, North Cascades National Park is one of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the United States. Known for its rugged peaks, more than 300 glaciers, turquoise lakes, and expansive wilderness, the national park offers endless opportunities for hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and photography.
To the south of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park showcases Washington’s highest peak at 14,411 feet. Home to dozens of glaciers, wildflower-filled meadows, waterfalls, and old-growth forests, the iconic volcano remains one of the region’s most sought-after outdoor destinations.
To the west, travelers can reach Olympic National Park via a scenic ferry crossing from Edmonds. Spanning nearly 1 million acres, Olympic National Park features a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, including glacier-capped mountains, temperate rainforests, and nearly 70 miles of protected Pacific Ocean coastline.
“Snohomish County sits at the crossroads of some of the Pacific Northwest’s most remarkable outdoor destinations,” says Trudy Soriano, Economic Development Program Manager for Discover Snohomish County, in a prepared statement. “Groups can explore three very different national parks and return each evening to welcoming communities, exceptional dining, and accommodations that make it easy to relax and prepare for the next adventure. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and Pacific Northwest hospitality.”
Outside of the national parks, there’s no shortage of things to do. Charming small towns along U.S. Route 2 include the historic communities of Monroe, Snohomish, Gold Bar, Skykomish, and Index, where locally owned shops, mountain scenery, and small-town charm await. Summer comes alive with Everett’s Music at the Marina concert series and the iconic Darrington Bluegrass Festival. Aviation enthusiasts can tour the Boeing Future of Flight. The region’s agricultural roots shine in the summer sun with berry picking, farmers markets, and a thriving farm-to-table dining scene showcasing the best of the Pacific Northwest.
Getting to Snohomish County is easier than ever, thanks to Seattle Paine Field International Airport, located just north of Seattle. Known for its boutique passenger experience, Paine Field has earned national recognition for its convenience, comfort, and traveler-focused design, and is consistently ranked among the nation’s top small airports. Served by Alaska Airlines, Paine Field offers convenient nonstop service to destinations throughout the western United States, making Snohomish County an ideal gateway for groups seeking a seamless Pacific Northwest adventure.
