GETTING HERE

Nestled among the forested foothills and impresive peaks of the North Cascades, Darrington is a small town with picturesque views and world-class recreational opportunities. Less than two hours from Seattle, the town is the gateway to the outdoors, offering countless adventures along three wild rivers--the Stillaguamish, Sauk, and Suiattle--and the vast network of public lands, including three wilderness areas--Boulder River, Henry M. Jackson, and Glacier Peak--where some of the most spectacular views and experiences await.

To reach Darrington from north or south I-5, take exit 208 toward Arlington. Follow Highway 530 East for approximately 40 minutes until you reach Darrington. You can also travel to Darrington using Community Transit Route 230 or by aircraft into the Darrington Municipal Airport.

From Hwy 20, at Rockport, take Hwy 530 southbound, crossing the Skagit River. Continue south on Hwy 530 , following the Sauk River, for approximately 18 miles until you enter the Darrington Town limits.

From Granite Falls, via the Mt. Loop Hwy, drive east of Granite Falls. Once you leave Granite Falls and drive east, cell phone service ends. After 11 miles you enter the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Continue east on the Mt. Loop Hwy for approximately 18 miles until you reach Barlow Pass. The Mt. Loop Hwy changes from pavement to single lane gravel road with turn-outs for approximately 15 miles. When you are back on pavement, continue driving approximately 6 miles and you will enter the Darrington Town limits.

WILDFLOWERS

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Mountain Marsh Marigold
This is a well known flower to hikers and mountain climbers, but you can also find it growing along several of our forest service roads such as White Chuck Ridge or Cumberland Pass on Mt. Higgins. Mountain Marsh Marigold begins to come up as the snow banks start melting away. You will find them growing by the thousands wherever they can find enough moisture. The thick bright green leaves are offset by several flowers budding out from the center of the plant. The outer portion of the petal is blueish and the inner portion is creamy white.

May – June