Northern State Ghost Town

Hike on the grounds of the abandoned Northern State Mental Hospital near Sedro-Woolley and just north of the Skagit River.

on the trail

Now part of Skagit County's Northern State Recreation Area, this site was once home to the small, self-sufficient town that served as a facility for the mentally ill of Washington State. It was opened in 1912 and eased the burden on the overcrowding at Western State Hospital.

The grounds have a trail system that take you through pastures and tree-lined paths, and past the buildings that remain including barns, a miking shed, and cannery. A few of the buildings are still actively used and are off-limits to the public. You can also visit the cemetery where 1,500 are estimated to be buried.

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 5.0 None
  • Elevation Gain: 50 ft
  • 200 ft
  • Land Manager: Skagit County Parks & Recreation
  • Parking Permit Required: None
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 30
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 30
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