LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Explore the Best of Skagit Valley
Lake Cavanaugh is surrounded by mountains, forests, farms, charming small towns, and some of the most beautiful scenery in Northwest Washington. Whether you're looking for an afternoon on the lake, a family activity, a round of golf, a scenic hike, or a great meal, there is plenty to explore within an easy drive of the property.
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OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Lake Activities
Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy the area is without leaving the property. Spend the day swimming, paddling, fishing, or relaxing along Lake Cavanaugh.
Paddle Boarding
Enjoy the peaceful waters of Lake Cavanaugh right from the private dock. Stand-up paddle boards are available for guests to use.
Boating
Bring your own boat or rent one locally and spend the day exploring the lake.
Fishing
Lake Cavanaugh is a popular spot for fishing year-round. Bring your gear and enjoy a quiet morning or afternoon on the water.
Swimming & Water Fun
Take a swim in the lake or enjoy the fun island during the warmer months for hours of enjoyment.
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HIKING & BIKING
Hike and bike around Lake Cavanaugh or venture out to explore scenic trails throughout the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Little Mountain Park — Mount Vernon
Only a short drive away, Little Mountain Park offers hiking, walking and mountain biking trails along with spectacular views from the summit. The park encompasses 522 acres and has panoramic views of the Skagit Valley, San Juan Islands, Olympic Mountains and, from the north viewpoint, Mount Baker. (Little Mountain Park - Mount Vernon)
Padilla Bay Shore Trail — Mount Vernon
For an easier outing, the Padilla Bay Shore Trail is a flat 2.25-mile path along the shoreline. It's a great choice for walking, biking, birdwatching and enjoying views of the bay. (Padilla Bay Shore Trail - Skagit County)
Whitehorse Regional Trail — Arlington
The Whitehorse Trail follows the former railroad through the North Stillaguamish River Valley for more than 27 miles between Arlington and Darrington. The trail is open for hiking, biking and horseback riding, with beautiful views of forests, farmland, rivers and mountains. (Whitehorse Regional Trail - Snohomish County)
Centennial Trail — Arlington
The Centennial Trail passes directly through Arlington and stretches approximately 22 miles between the Skagit County border and Snohomish. It is a paved, multi-use trail that's great for walking and biking. (Centennial Trail - Arlington, WA)
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NATIONAL PARKS & MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES
North Cascades National Park
For a true mountain adventure, head east into North Cascades National Park. The park offers everything from short forest walks and scenic overlooks to challenging full-day mountain hikes. Popular hikes include Thunder Knob, Thunder Creek, Diablo Lake, Cascade Pass and Hidden Lake. (Hiking at North Cascades National Park)
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
The surrounding national forest provides another enormous playground for hiking, mountain biking, camping and exploring. The North Cascades region is bordered by the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, with numerous trail opportunities extending throughout the mountains. (Hiking at Mount Baker - Snoqualmie National Forest)
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PARKS & NATURE
Deception Pass State Park
About 40 minutes away, Deception Pass is one of the area's must-see destinations. The park spans two islands and features dramatic bridges, rugged cliffs, beaches, forests, hiking trails and spectacular water views. (Deception Pass State Park - Whidbey Island)
Bay View State Park — Mount Vernon
A peaceful waterfront destination for picnicking, kite flying, beachcombing, birdwatching and enjoying views of Padilla Bay and the surrounding landscape. (Bay View State Park - Mount Vernon)
Haller Park & Splash Pad — Arlington
Haller Park is a family-friendly waterfront park along the Stillaguamish River, featuring a playground, picnic areas, trails, beach access, restrooms, and the popular Haller Park Splash Pad. The splash pad is a great way for kids to cool off and play during the warmer months. The splash pad is open seasonally, generally from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., weather permitting. (Haller Park - Arlington)
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FAMILY FUN
When the weather isn't cooperating—or when the kids simply need something different—there are plenty of family-friendly activities nearby.
Skagit Skate — Burlington
Roller skating, arcade games and a café make Skagit Skate an easy family outing. It's a great rainy-day option for kids and adults alike. (Skagit Skate)
Children's Museum of Skagit County — Burlington
A hands-on museum designed around play and exploration, with interactive experiences for children and families. (Children's Museum of Skagit County)
The Outback Kangaroo Farm — Arlington
For something a little more unusual, visit this family-friendly wildlife farm where guests can see kangaroos, wallabies, lemurs, alpacas, llamas, goats and other animals. Guided tours are offered seasonally. (The Outback Kangaroo Farm)
Jungle Playland — Mount Vernon
Jungle Playland is an animal-themed indoor playground in Mount Vernon, offering climbing structures, slides, tunnels, ball pits, and plenty of space for kids to run, climb and play. It's a great option for families looking for an indoor activity, especially on a rainy Northwest day. (Jungle Playland)
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GOLF
Whether you're looking for a full 18-hole round or a quick afternoon game, there are several courses within easy driving distance.
Avalon Golf Links — Burlington
A 27-hole course featuring rolling terrain, beautiful views and multiple playing options. (Avalon Golf Links)
Gleneagle Golf Course — Arlington
An 18-hole course with a picturesque setting and clubhouse restaurant, making it easy to turn a round of golf into a full afternoon outing. (Gleneagle Golf Course)
Overlook Golf Course — Big Lake
A convenient 9-hole executive course with views of Big Lake and the surrounding mountains. It's a great option when you're looking for a quicker round. (Overlook Golf Course)
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SHOPPING & DINING
La Conner
Spend an afternoon exploring the charming waterfront town of La Conner. Historic buildings, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and the waterfront walkway make it an easy place to spend a few hours. (Visit Downtown La Conner)
Downtown Mount Vernon
Historic downtown Mount Vernon offers independent shops, cafés, restaurants, breweries and riverfront views. The downtown area also hosts seasonal markets, festivals, concerts and other community events. (Visit Downtown Mount Vernon and Events in Downtown Mount Vernon)
Downtown Arlington
Explore Arlington's historic downtown for local shops, restaurants and cafés. Depending on the season, you may also find the Arlington Farmers Market, street fairs and other community events. (Visit Downtown Arlington)
Seattle Premium Outlets — Marysville
For a shopping day, Seattle Premium Outlets offers a large collection of brand-name stores and outlet shopping. (Visit the Mall)
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CULTURE & LOCAL HISTORY
Roozengaarde — Mount Vernon
A beautiful destination for experiencing the agricultural beauty of Skagit Valley, particularly during tulip season. Stroll through the display gardens and surrounding fields for a memorable spring outing.
Skagit County Historical Museum — La Conner
Explore the history and heritage of Skagit County through exhibits covering the area's communities, industries and past.
Stillaguamish Valley Pioneer Museum — Arlington
A local museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Arlington and the surrounding Stillaguamish Valley.
SEASONAL EXPERIENCES
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival — Spring
One of the area's signature experiences, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival brings visitors from around the region each spring to experience miles of colorful tulip fields and seasonal events.
Skagit County Fair — August
A classic county fair featuring rides, games, exhibits, livestock, food and entertainment.
Mount Vernon Farmers Market
A seasonal Saturday market featuring local produce, handmade goods, prepared foods and other local products.
Arlington Events
Arlington hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including farmers markets, street fairs, holiday celebrations and aviation-related events. Check the city's event calendar for current dates. (Events in Downtown Arlington)
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DAY TRIPS
San Juan Islands
Drive to Anacortes and catch a ferry to the San Juan Islands for a memorable day on the water. Explore charming towns, scenic viewpoints, beaches, hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife and whale watching.
Seattle
For a change of pace, Seattle is an easy day trip. Explore Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, waterfront attractions, museums, shopping and restaurants.
Oso Slide Memorial
Located near Arlington, the Oso Slide Memorial commemorates the tragic 2014 landslide and honors those who lost their lives.
Mountain Loop Highway
The Mountain Loop Highway is a spectacular scenic drive through the Cascade Mountains, winding between Granite Falls and Darrington. Along the way, you'll find towering forests, mountain peaks, waterfalls, rivers, hiking trails and beautiful alpine scenery. It's a wonderful day trip for exploring the quieter side of the Cascades and experiencing the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Seasonal Opening: The Mountain Loop Highway typically closes during the winter months and reopens in the spring. Opening dates vary each year depending on road and weather conditions. For 2026, the highway fully opened for the season on May 15. Check current road conditions and closures before planning your trip.
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