The Hiker Mama

Rockport State Park

Distance: There are 6 miles of trails in the park. One mile of this is ADA accessible.

Elevation Gain: Variable; 250 feet on the Evergreen Trail.

Maximum Elevation: 750 feet.

Season: Year-round; pay attention to possible weekday closures.

Maps: Green Trails Darrington No. 78; Rockport State Park Trail map (often available in a kiosk at the park or printable online.)

Description: Nestled in the shadow of Sauk Mountain, this pocket of Old Growth forest makes a fabulous and peaceful place to ramble. Young children will enjoy walking on the West Loop Interpretive Trail, a wide, one-mile ADA-accessible path made from packed gravel. Short bridges cross gurgling streams, moss drapes from every tree and shrub, and shade-loving native plants cover the forest floor. For a trail with a bit of a wilder feel, the Evergreen Trail makes a 3-mile loop through the outer reaches of the park, including a stop by the Broken Fir, a battered giant from past times. The trail climbs a few hundred feet up on the hillside as it winds along the base of Sauk Mountain. You might see signs of deer or coyote. You can also cross the highway to the Sauk Springs Trail and the Skagit View Trail for more exercise on flat terrain. There are some peek-a-boo views of the river from the far point of the loop, but there is no river access from the park. Children will also enjoy visiting the Discovery Center when it is open and staffed by a ranger.

Directions: From I-5 in Burlington, take Exit 230 for Highway 20, the North Cascades Highway, and follow it east for 37 miles. The park entrance is on the left/north side of the road. There are flush toilets, picnic tables, and water at the park. You’ll need your Discover Pass to park there.

Links: Read about one of our excursions there to see the eagles. Check current information on the State Parks website.