Northern State Recreation Area

Jake G

Although this is entirely a walking path all throughout the grounds (as in, it’s not much of a “hike”), it was well beyond my expectations. The old dairy farm, which is one of the first areas with structures you’ll come across, was the only disappointment, considering the endless amounts of trash graffiti that adorn the walls of the structures you first see. Once you make it beyond that however, you’ll really start to see this park shine. The manicured trail towards the back end of the grounds was really well done. Seeing a number of old structures that have succumbed to weather or other reasons, was really cool. Made me wonder more about the history of this space. I saw tons of wildlife, at one point seeing 5 bald eagles soaring around the skies above me, including one who hadn’t yet reached the age of adulthood yet. Do yourselves a favor on this walk… look up. Finished the route with on the grounds of the old Northern State hospital and was completely mesmerized by the buildings. It’s been decently well preserved, but much of the glass on the ground floor windows have been broken, so just be careful. And obviously, no trespassing inside the building itself. The views in this entire park were really incredible. Mountains and meadows all around, trees and water, birds and even a snake! I’d go back again and again and I likely will.

Jen Rein

A great place to walk! Lots of maintained trails. Almost every dog is on lead. Sometimes there are horses on the little horseshoe shaped path around the field! River access and easy access to the road system around the port of Skagit and the old asylum. Awesome disc golf course that usually has some hard core disc golfers playing through. Fun to watch! Clean flushing toilets and picnic area at the entrance.

Rowdy KiloNiner

Nice park to walk around. Pretty large disc golf course and the old hospital is awesome to check out. Lots of glass and graffiti so be careful where you step.

Linda Steiner

Great bathrooms and covered picnic area. There was a disc golf tournament in progress. Good place to walk but remnants of former farm buildings are covered with graffiti that could inspire a lot of questions from kids and embarrass some. There are no barricades from dilapidated areas ready to collapse onto wandering, inquisitive types of explorers.