Darrington Area

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For Darrington District US Forest Service Page click HERE

          About half the acreage of this district is made up of three Wilderness areas: Boulder River, Henry Jackson, and Glacier Peak. But you don’t have to hike into the wilderness to enjoy the district’s uniqueness. Perhaps the most popular area is the National Scenic Byway, the Mountain Loop. The loop which links Granite Falls with Darrington and back again was first pioneered in 1891 by miners hoping that the area would fulfill their dreams of riches. An occasional modern day gold seeker can still be seen panning the remote areas of the Sauk River. Later the road carried loggers and CCC teams who helped build the ample amount of campgrounds that can still be enjoyed today.

            Most of the campgrounds are off the paved part of the loop from the Verlot Public Services center, located about 15 minutes east of Granite Falls, to the eastern tip of the road at Barlow Pass. The loop continues northward from there over graveled somewhat rough terrain going past Bedal campground and finally up to Darrington and Clear Creek Campground. Highway 530 will take you back to Arlington and then Jordan Road completes the Loop if you want to finish back at Granite Falls. The Mountain Loop “Highway” is the Forest’s most popular camping area highlighted by Gold Basin which has almost 100 sites, some flush toilets and showers. While camping itself is fun in this area, it is also almost a must to enjoy the scenic hikes easily available along the loop. You are encouraged to stop at the Verlot Public Center for more information or your campground host will also be able to help.