Tourism Today September 2015 - Snohomish County Tourism Bureau

INDUSTRY NEWSLETTER TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY-BASED TOURISM BUSINESSES
SEPTEMBER 2015
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
News You Can Use 2
Travel, Tourism & Hospitality 7
The Sports Pages 16
Around Snohomish County 22
Get Out & About 25
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Tourism Today
September 2015
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Progress Continues for Stilly Valley Outdoor
Recreation Development
At the second Stilly Valley Area Outdoor
Recreation Roundtable, more than 40
outdoor recreation stakeholders gathered
at the Sauk-Suiattle Longhouse near
Darrington in late July to share updates
on various projects underway in their
area.
Topics included updates on efforts to
Sauk-Suiattle Longhouse
pave the Mountain Loop Highway; ideas
for a new marathon and triathlon; progress on the restoration of the historic North
Mountain Fire Lookout; and a sneak peek at the new trail and hiking guide produced by
the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau.
Year-round Mountain Bike Course
Glenn Glover, director of Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, and Brock Milliern,
recreation manager with the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), presented
conceptual plans for a world-class, year-round mountain bike course proposed for North
Mountain in Darrington.
Glover explained the proposed trail system would start and end near Darrington’s
Whitehorse Park just north of the small, historic downtown.
“We’ve learned what works over the years,” said Glover. “For example, you need a
minimum of 15 to 20 miles for a destination course. Skilled bikers don’t mind using
gravel roads to get to more challenging courses, but families need easier courses close
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to trailheads (and) within walking distance to parking and to town. You
need a system that offers variety.”
Tourism Today
September 2015
NEWS YOU CAN USE
[Year-round Mountain Bike Course continued]
The North Mountain project is initially funded through an allocation to DNR from the
state’s Sustainable Recreation Budget. Planning is in initial stages with community
meetings and environmental reviews yet to come. If all goes smoothly, Milliern said
some courses could open as early as 2018.
Forest Clark, director of the Washington Fire Lookout Association (FLA), said the
projected timeline for the proposed North Mountain Bike Trail Network compliments
re-opening the North Mountain Lookout and completion of the Whitehorse Trail, two
popular draws for those seeking “bike-packing” experiences.
New Signage for SR530
Participants also discussed new SR530 signage directing visitors to the Boulder River
Trail, Darrington Ranger Station, the Suiattle and Darrington Recreation Areas, and new
signage on the Mountain Loop Highway.
“Signage for drivers in rural areas is crucial due to spotty cell reception,” said Annique
Bennett, the county’s strategic tourism coordinator. “Thanks to the partnership between
Snohomish County and the U.S. Forest Service, Darrington District, we were able to get
new signage produced, funded and installed to direct visitors around these areas.”
Purpose of the Roundtable
The Stilly Valley Outdoor Recreation Roundtable is facilitated by the Snohomish
County Office of Economic Development and the Snohomish County Parks Department.
The roundtable meets quarterly with the mission of connecting partners, sharing
information, and leveraging resources to improve outdoor recreation and the economic
benefits these activities bring.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
NEWS YOU CAN USE
[Purpose of the Roundtable continued]
“I am pleased with the amount of collaboration and effort that has gone into making
this group a success,” said Snohomish County Councilman Ken Klein who has attended
the roundtables and supports the concept. “I am looking forward to tremendous
opportunities ahead for the Stilly Valley.”
Bennett facilitates the Stilly Valley Area Outdoor Recreation Roundtable as part of her
role in the Office of Economic Development for Snohomish County. She can be reached
at [email protected] or 425-740-4309.
News from Washington Tourism Alliance
In the July 2015 newsletter Executive
Director Louise Stanton-Masten provided a
recap of results of the 2015 legislative
session:
“Since the 2015 legislative session ended the WTA has been focused on undertaking
the steps necessary to prepare our long-term funding legislation for the 2016 session.
While it was disappointing to not get our bills passed this year or to get the interim
funding that we were seeking, we are well underway with our action plans to build a
successful campaign for the next session.
“In June the WTA Board of Directors reviewed and approved a draft interim legislative
plan, with objectives designed to position us for success. Work is ongoing to establish
the final plan. Our primary objectives are to identify and secure additional support from
businesses subject to the assessment fees; strengthen relationships and secure support
from legislators; maintain and grow support from organizations that represent the
assessed sectors; achieve support and commitment from non-assessed tourism
industry sectors; build an outreach campaign. The WTA legislative committee will be
working with grassroots teams in legislative districts and with tourism
partners to help gain support for our legislation.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
NEWS YOU CAN USE
[News from Washington Tourism Alliance continued]
“As we move forward with all of the components of our legislative plan we’ll be reaching
out in a number of ways for member and stakeholder involvement. Your input and
support will be critical in helping us get our legislation passed in the next session so
that we achieve our goal of adequate funding to support our statewide tourism
marketing program.”
For membership and more information, go to WATourismAlliance.com.
Reach More Travelers on Snohomish.org &
ExperienceWA.com
If your business, organization
or activity welcomes visitors to
Snohomish County, then get your
free listing on Snohomish.org
today. Chockfull of information to
help visitors plan and enjoy their
visit, the website receives over
222,000 unique visitors each
year.
Contact Amy Spain at [email protected] for more information.
Want to increase exposure to a wider audience that is considering travel to Washington
State? Then consider advertising on ExperienceWA.com, the state’s official travel
website designed to inform potential visitors about the attractions, amenities and
adventures within Washington State and to make travel plans.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
NEWS YOU CAN USE
[Reach More Travelers on Snohomish.org & ExperienceWA.com continued]
For banner and other online advertising, paid business listings or a direct link to your
website from ExperienceWA.com, contact Mike Moe, director of business development
and media sales, at 425-444-0589 or [email protected] for more
information. The website and its advertising program are managed by the Washington
Tourism Alliance.
Getting Ink: Working with Travel Writers
Media relations consultant Julie Gangler arranged
for complimentary accommodations on May 23
for freelancer Lara Dunning at Paca Pride Guest
Ranch, which resulted in her article in The
Crossing Guide on July 16.
Julie pitched and arranged for writer Carrie Yu and
her family to tour the Western Heritage Center
Interpretive Museum on July 8, which resulted in a
Trekaroo.com article on July 9.
She also worked with Marci Schoenmaker at AAA
Washington to arrange for a “Dog-friendly
Snohomish County” PDF to be posted June 5 on
the AAA website.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
SCTB Welcomes Back Founding Board Member
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau is pleased to welcome a
returning board member, Bill Rode.
Bill was a founding member of the Snohomish County Tourism
Bureau board, a former general manager of two hotels in
Snohomish County, and a longtime Snohomish County resident.
He is currently the Area Director of Group Sales for the 360
Hotel Group, which owns and operates three hotels in
Snohomish County: the Best Western PLUS Navigator Inn &
Suites in Everett, the Hampton Inn & Suites in Lynnwood and
the Staybridge Suites in Mukilteo.
As an active member of the Snohomish County Lodging Association, and more recently
Economic Alliance Snohomish County and the Snohomish Wedding Guild, Bill brings
his expertise in public relations, marketing, personnel administration, program
development, and government relations to his position with the board of directors.
“I have always been most passionate when it comes to the promotion of Snohomish
County,” Bill said, “with all it has to offer.”
Welcome aboard, Bill!
SCTB Group Sales Effort Nets Results, Casts for More
Business
Group Sales Manager Samantha “Sam” Shaw is keeping a busy schedule promoting the
county’s meeting facilities and area amenities to group and meeting professionals and
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attracting new market segments to fill local convention and
meeting spaces.
Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Pacific Northwest Amma Program, May 30 – June 1
More than 5,000
people gathered at
XFINITY Arena in Everett
to see humanitarian and
spiritual leader Mata
Amritanandamayi, also
known as Amma. The
free daily programs
included inspirational
music, meditation,
spiritual discourse, and
personal blessings. Many
of these attendees
traveled from across the U.S. and other countries.
The large event delivered more than 700 room nights for area hotels.
Sam and her team are working to bring more large-scale public shows like these to fill
the county’s large convention centers and generate more citywide business.
WSAE 2015, June 14-16
A close collaboration among Snohomish County partners helped make the Washington
Society of Association Professionals (WSAE) 2015 Annual Convention at the Tulalip
Resort & Casino a success.
Support from the Snohomish County TPA Fund, hotels and venues that are a part of
WSAE, and other county partners such as Scuttlebutt Brewing Co. and Bluewater
Organic Distilling, provided key components that helped organizers
produce the conference and attendees feel welcome.
Tourism
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Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
[WSAE 2015, June 14-16 continued]
The conference gave Sam the opportunity to
meet with over 30 association executives in a
speed-style appointment format. She was also
able to network with them during education
sessions and offsite receptions at the Future of
Flight Aviation Center and the Lynnwood
Convention Center.
As of press time, survey feedback was not yet
complete. However, Sam has received much
positive feedback from other methods.
Organizers and attendees enjoyed the creativity,
service and hospitality provided by Sam and the
community partners who assisted in this event.
She expects the WSAE to return again.
A BIG THANK YOU to the community and hospitality partners who helped make this
event a success, including the Snohomish County TPA Grant and the Snohomish County
Hospitality Partnership – Tulalip Resort & Casino, Edward D. Hansen Conference
Center at XFINITY Arena, Holiday Inn Downtown Everett, Lynnwood Convention Center,
and Embassy Suites Seattle North/Lynnwood.
Meeting Professionals International World Education Conference,
Aug. 1-5
In San Francisco, Sam met with numerous attendees at this educational conference for
corporate, non-profit and third-party meeting planners from around the U.S. and the
world.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
American Society of Association Executives 2016 Annual Convention,
Aug. 8-11
In Detroit, Sam joined colleagues at the shared Washington State booth to promote
the region to national association executives and meeting planners. This is part of the
“Meet in Washington State” partnership.
Northwest Event Show, Sept. 16
In Seattle, this tradeshow brings together meeting and event
planners from around the Pacific Northwest. Sam and
partners from Courtyard by Marriott Seattle North/Lynnwood
Everett, Hilton Garden Inn Bothell, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Marysville,
Lynnwood Convention Center, and Wild Sky Ranch in Index will showcase the county’s
amenities, attractions and meeting facilities.
Sam welcomes donations of products or services to be used for contest prizes. Contact
her today at [email protected].
Olympia Sales Mission, Nov. 18 & 19
Sam is organizing a two-day mission to the state’s capitol in conjunction with a
Washington Society of Association Professionals (WSAE) educational meeting scheduled
for the morning of Thursday, Nov. 19.
Appointments will be scheduled throughout the day on Wednesday, Nov. 18, and some
in the afternoon the following day.
Potential costs include lodging, meals, travel, and/or client gifts. Sam will soon send
invitations to participate in this mission.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Shaw’s New Role with MPIWSC
For the next two years Sam will be the director of sponsorships and advertising for
Meeting Professionals International Washington State Chapter (MPIWSC). She is
working to develop new, innovative and beneficial ways for companies and organizations
to participate in MPI sponsorship programs.
A few initial ideas include:
•
Hosting an interactive game, such as a mini putt golf kiosk, at a networking event
•
Product placement in an online video, such as a coffee cup with your company’s
logo
•
Have the MPI president wear a baseball cap with your company logo during a
monthly meeting
Got ideas you’d like to share? Would you like to increase the visibility of your company
with corporate, non-profit, and third-party meeting planners? Please contact Sam at
[email protected] today.
Visitor Guides Going Fast at SCTB’s Everett Mall
Display
The ambient advertising campaign called
“Summer Fun” continues through midSeptember at the Everett Mall.
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau is
participating with a fun display: two
Adirondack-style chairs painted in the blue
and green of the bureau’s logo
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colors, a floor mat-style
Tourism Today
sign with the bureau’s...
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
[Visitor Guides Going Fast at SCTB’s Everett Mall Display continued]
...tag line “Open Up”, and a rack filled with visitor guides. To date, more than 300
guides have been distributed.
The visitor guides are also available at any of the conveniently located Snohomish
County Visitor Information Centers and for download as a PDF at Snohomish.org.
VIC News & Events
In addition to helping visitors and travelers enjoy their stay in Snohomish County, the
Visitor Information Center volunteers kept busy with several educational and celebratory
events.
FAM Tours
In June, the VIC volunteers
toured the new hotel at the
Angel of the Winds
Casino & Hotel in Arlington,
stopped at the Arlington
Visitor Center (managed by
the Arlington-Smokey Point
Chamber of Commerce and
located alongside the
Centennial Trail), and
engaged in “retail therapy”
in downtown Arlington.
In July, volunteers toured the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett.
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In early August, they enjoyed learning how their body language impacts
the visitor experience (as well as other areas of their lives). The
Tourism Today
training session was based on the TED Talk by Amy Cuddy.
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
[FAM Tours continued]
In September, the volunteers are slated to visit Best Western Navigator Inn in Everett
that will provide them with lunch in recognition for their tourism promotion efforts. They
will also participate in an Edmonds familiarization tour.
In November, they will have a tour and hosted lunch at the Staybridge Suites in
Mukilteo.
For information about hosting a FAM tour of your business, contact Jennifer Bravo,
visitor services manager, at 425-348-5802, x103 or [email protected].
Volunteer Annual Picnic
On Aug. 12, volunteers gathered at City Park in
Edmonds for a day filled with laughter, good food, and
friendship.
Three Volunteers Receive Presidential Honors
In June, volunteers Linda McCullough, Toki
Tonooka, and Dorothy Morehouse, as well as
other community volunteers, received the
Lifetime Presidential Service Award.
The Lifetime Presidential Service Award is
given to persons for providing at least 4,000
hours of volunteer service. Each honoree
received a framed certificate signed by President Obama and a
lapel pin commemorating their service.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
[Three Volunteers Receive Presidential Honors continued]
Linda volunteers at the Future of Flight VIC and Toki helps at all three locations –
Future of Flight, East County, and South County Visitor Information Centers. Dorothy
works at the South County location as a Travel Counselor and Brochure Inventory
Specialist.
For more information about the Lifetime Presidential Service Awards, go to
www.PresidentialServiceAwards.gov/the-award.
Port of Everett Sponsors Local Events to Enhance
Tourism
In May, the Port of Everett Commission awarded $15,000
in sponsorships to summer community events that
support tourism within the Port District.
The 2015 sponsorship recipients included:
•
City of Everett’s Colors of Freedom 4th of July
Festival
•
Fresh Paint: Festival of Artists at Work, Aug. 15 &
16
•
Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival, Sept. 11-13
•
Wheels on the Waterfront Car Show, Sept. 12
Each year, the Port accepts applications for sponsorship
funding in April and awards the funds in May. Priority
funding is given to events that promote Port properties
and facilities, promote tourism throughout the Port District,
provide economic development opportunities and/or promote
education and public awareness.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Old School, New Ways: Bothell’s McMenamin’s to
Debut in October
Who would have conjured up an idea of setting a pub and a hotel in a junior high school
built in the 1930s?
Mike and Brian McMenamin did. The brothers are the creative minds and bold strategists
behind the hotels, pubs and restaurants that make up 45 successful McMenamin’s
properties in Oregon and Washington.
The historic Anderson School is in the final stages of renovation. The former five-acre
campus with 100,000-square-feet of building space is transforming into a full-scale
entertainment destination. The class rooms, cafeteria, gymnasium, and pool will make
way for 72 hotel guest rooms with private baths, restaurants and small bars, a brewery,
a movie theater, meeting and event spaces, and a tropical landscaped-theme saltwater
pool.
Located at 18603 Bothell Way NE, three blocks north of the intersection of Routes 527
and 522, the project is a part of the City of Bothell’s long-term redevelopment plan that
includes a new city hall and city center.
McMenamins Anderson School is expected to open on Thursday, Oct. 15 and employ
about 150 full- and part-time employees.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Tulalip Resort Casino Receives Accolades
In late June, the folks at 10Best.com, a
travel destination and lifestyle advice
website, and a division of USA Today, felt
they hit the jackpot at the Tulalip Resort
Casino. After succinctly describing the
amenities and services at the gaming and
entertainment destination, the article
concluded with “In our opinion, the odds
of having a blast here are highly probable.”
The resort casino also received the
Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor,
awarded to properties that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on
TripAdvisor.com.
THE SPORTS PAGES
Sports Sales Team Makes Connections at Conferences
Olympic SportsLink, Aug. 25-27 & Connect Sports Marketplace, Aug. 27-29
Tammy Dunn, sports development manager, and Anthony Brenneman, sports sales
manager, traveled to Pittsburgh to attend the two important sports conferences. This was
the first time the meetings took place at the same venue and with overlapping dates.
To promote Snohomish County for hosting competitions, tournaments and events, Tammy
and Anthony met with 31 rights holders including United States Boomerang Association,
Asian Basketball Championships of North America, Ball Up LLC, North American
Strongman Inc, and American Cheer & Dance Academy.
They also attended educational sessions.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
NASC Market Segment Meetings, Sept. 28-30
The sports sales team – comprised of
Tammy Dunn, Anthony Brenneman,
and Aaron Wilson, sports sales & events
coordinator – will travel to Colorado
Springs to attend the National
Association of Sports Commissions’
Market Segment Meetings.
The conference creates opportunities for destinations of similar market size and
organization structure to conduct open and honest dialogue about matters of
importance to attendees. These are advanced level discussions among professionals in
the sport tourism industry.
The sports staff will attend best practice sessions to discuss topics such as emerging
trends, key solutions, and overcoming obstacles. They will also attend the “Rapid RFP
Review” session where local National Governing Bodies (NGBs) will share information
about their organizations and what it takes for communities to host their events.
S.P.O.R.T.S. – The Relationship Conference, Oct. 5-8
Anthony Brenneman, sports sales manager, travels to Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana
for the conference produced by SportsEvents Magazine. He will meet one-on-one with
sports event owners including Triple Crown Sports, PrimeTime Sports, and National
Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and attend educational sessions such as
“Beyond the Outfield Wall: Selling Sponsorships Today.”
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Tourism Today
September 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
TEAMS ’15 Conference & Expo, Nov. 9-12
In Las Vegas, Tammy and Anthony will attend the Travel, Events and Management in
Sports (TEAMS), the last conference for the year for the sports sales team. Among the
more than 1,400 attendees are CEOs, executive directors and event managers from
sports organizations and various representatives from sports commissions, convention
bureaus, corporate sponsors, event suppliers, and the hospitality industry.
They will meet with sports events rights holders in one-on-one scheduled appointments
and network with the sports tourism industry peers and rights holders.
Dunn Honored by Connect Sports Magazine
In the latest issue of Connect Sports magazine, the cover story
“IX Women Who’ve Got Game” honors nine women who have
made significant contributions to the sports tourism industry.
Snohomish County Sports Commission’s own Tammy Dunn is
among them.
The women are “a mixture of trailblazing veterans, accomplished
thought leaders and rising stars,” as stated in the press release
from Collinson Media Group, owner of Connect Sports magazine.
Tammy is described as a go-getter.
This is the first year the magazine called for nominations, and a large number of entries
were received. Connect Sports editors evaluated and reviewed all recommendations.
This feature is not advertising-driven or connected with any promotional contest, making
this recognition truly an honor for those selected.
The magazine’s editors consider these nine women, together with their colleagues,
industry partners and mentors, as leaders in helping to elevate the
sports tourism profession and moving it forward.
Tourism
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Today
September 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
[Dunn Honored by Connect Sports Magazine continued]
Tammy and the other women formerly received their honors at the Connect Sports
Marketplace conference on Aug. 27.
A Grand Slam of Summer Sports Events
Triple Crown Sports Memorial Day Baseball Tournament, May 23-25
The youth baseball tournament attracted 92 teams from around the
Pacific Northwest. Family and friends accompanied the players for the
three-day event. Economic impact: $694,386.
Wake Surfing: Taste of Tye, June 6 & 7, and Northwest Wake Surf Open,
July 24-26
INT League of Washington hosted two wake surfing events at Lake Tye in Monroe.
Competitors from as far away as Texas and Alberta, Canada competed for top honors.
Combined economic impact: $100,213.
Harvey Cup Boys Lacrosse Tournament, June 6 & 7
The two-day competition at Harvey Field in Snohomish brought 29 teams from around
western Washington along with their families and friends. Economic impact: $124,491.
U.S. Youth Soccer Region IV Presidents Cup, June 10-14
This first-time soccer tournament held at Stocker Fields welcomed 120 boys’ and girls’
teams, U13-U17, for the five-day tourney. Teams traveled from 14 western states in19
cluding Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. Economic impact:
Tourism Today
$4,142,475.
September 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
Tyler Lucas Invitational Lacrosse Tournament, June 14
Ten local teams played outdoor short field 6v6 box-style lacrosse at Lynnwood High
School. The Edmonds Eagles Lacrosse Club hosted the event. Economic impact:
$22,960.
Snohomish United Invitational, June 19-21
The Snohomish Youth Soccer Club hosted its first of three annual tourneys at Stocker
Fields. United Invitational had 90 boys’ and girls’ teams, 10U – 17U, competing over
three days. Teams traveled from across Washington State to compete in this fun soccer
tournament. Economic impact: $910,283.
TriMonroe Sprint & Super Sprint Triathlon, June 20
This year’s triathlon was a USA Triathlon Youth Elite Cup
and CAMTRI Junior American Cup. The 195 junior
development triathletes, ages 13 through 19, raced in
the Elite draft-legal format at Lake Tye Park. Twenty-eight
teams competed in the youth and junior team relay.
Athletes and their families came from across the U.S.
including Colorado, Florida, Georgia, and Texas.
Economic impact: $169,947.
MSNM National Championships, July 10-13
The NCAA-certified placement girls’ basketball
tournament was held at several Everett School District
high schools and at Everett Community College. The 95
teams with their family members and coaching staffs
traveled from states including Colorado, Hawaii and
Utah. Economic impact: $1,119,650.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
NSA Girls Fastpitch Western World Series, July 15-18
Fifty girls’ teams, 10U – 18U, competed at Phil Johnson Ballfields in Everett,
Marysville-Pilchuck High School in Marysville, and Sky River Park in Monroe. The World
Series kicked off with opening ceremonies at Sky River Park on July 15. Economic
impact: $654,514.
Kla Ha Ya Adult Soccer Tournament, July 17-19
The Snohomish Youth Soccer Club hosted its second of three tournaments during the
city of Snohomish’s Kla Ha Ya Days festival. Sixty-five men, women and co-ed adult
teams competed. Economic impact: $248,475.
Cascade Cup Lacrosse Tournament, July 24-26
Snohomish Lacrosse Club welcomed 31 girls’ teams in
four divisions to its annual tournament at Harvey Field.
Teams traveled from as far away as Oregon and California’s
Bay Area. Economic impact: $241,376.
Marysville Strawberry Classic, July 31-Aug. 2
The Pilchuck Soccer Alliance hosted their annual soccer tourney at 152nd Street
Soccer Complex. A total of 55 boys’ and girls’ teams from around the state competed in
the 10U to 17/18U age groups. Economic impact: $321,053.
Snohomish Bigfoot Soccer Tournament, Aug. 13-16
The Snohomish Youth Soccer Club hosted its third of three tournaments at Stocker
Fields with 234 boys’ and girls’ teams competing from across Washington State.
Economic impact: $3,506,820.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Herald Readers’ Choice Awards Recognizes Local
Businesses
The Herald recently announced the 2015 winners in the Readers’ Choice Awards in a
number of categories including restaurants/entertainment and shopping.
Use those pages as well as Snohomish.org for plenty of ideas of things to do, see and
more for out-of-town guests, your family, and yourself!
VICs Hosted School Supplies Drive
During August, the Snohomish County Visitor Information Center at Lynnwood’s Heritage
Park accepted donations of a variety of new school supplies for Sleep Country’s Foster
Kids school supply drive.
Spiral notebooks, composition books, index cards, construction paper, pencils,
erasers, markers, binders, and other classroom items were collected by the VIC’s
volunteers during business hours.
Upon conclusion of the drive, these items were then given to the Sleep Country’s Foster
Kids program for collection and distribution to the 20,000 foster children living in the
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Pacific Northwest.
Tourism Today
September 2015
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Last Chance to See Hibulb’s “Native Knowledge
Shared Science” Exhibit
Make plans now to visit the
Hibulb Cultural Center’s
temporary exhibit “Roots of
Wisdom: Native Knowledge
Shared Science.” The exhibit
ends Sept. 27.
The exhibit explores how
efforts to heal centuries of
environmental and cultural
damages have created unlikely partnerships which lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Stories from four indigenous communities are brought to life in real-world examples of
how traditional knowledge and cutting-edge Western science can be blended together to
provide solutions to contemporary concerns.
Hibulb Cultural Center is located at 6410 23rd Ave NE, Tulalip. For tickets, hours and
more information call 360-716-2600 or visit www.HibulbCulturalCenter.org.
Bluewater Distilling Opens New Digs
In early July, the folks at Bluewater Organic Distilling opened their new distillery,
cocktail bar and restaurant in a new location.
Within three short weeks, the bartenders at the Bluewater Beach Bar made more than
3,000 hand-shaken drinks, made mostly with the company’s own vodkas and gin.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
[Bluewater Distilling Opens New Digs continued]
The focus is on fresh and local. The menu
is comprised of ingredients from the Everett
Farmers Market. Beer on tap includes those
from Scuttlebutt and Diamond Knot
breweries. Even the Douglas fir wood slabs
that make up the bar were sourced from a
company in Oso.
The new location provides space for private
parties, mixology classes, and events such
as Sup n’ Sip, a one-hour stand up paddle
tour around the Port of Everett followed by a
seasonal Bluewater cocktail at the bar, and
YogaMosa, a yoga session lead by a local
instructor and followed by a cocktail.
Bluewater Organic Distilling is located
within the Waterfront Center at 1205
Craftsman Way, Suite 109 in Everett. For
hours and more information call
425-404-1408 or visit
www.BluewaterDistilling.com.
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Tourism Today
September 2015
GET OUT & ABOUT
Mountain Loop Highway Hikes
Enjoy the golden days of late summer and autumn by hiking one or more of the many
trails along the Mountain Loop Highway, a designated scenic byway by the US Forest
Service. Choices range from beginner-friendly paths to rugged backcountry tracks –
something for all ages and abilities!
Follow this itinerary for a deep and enriching experience or use it to plan a quick escape
or long weekend adventure.
Note: All trail distances listed are round-trip.
Lake Stevens
Start your adventure after a good night’s sleep
and a delicious buffet-style breakfast at
Mansion Inn Lake Stevens, a gabled bed and
breakfast with modern amenities and a water
view of Lake Stevens.
Stop by Carleton Farm to choose the fixings of a
perfect picnic lunch – locally produced
cheeses, sun-ripened seasonal fruit, fresh
picked veggies, and tasty treats.
Granite Falls
This friendly town, located at the base of the Cascade Mountain range, makes a perfect
base camp for explorations along the southern portion of the Mountain Loop Highway.
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September 2015
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[Granite Falls continued]
Cast a line for trout or salmon from the banks of the south fork of the Stillaguamish
River. Ride a mountain bike on the paths and trails in the Jordan Road-Canyon Creek
area.
Area Trails
Cutthroat Lake
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The nine-mile Cutthroat Lakes trail is among the more
difficult trails, but the scenic alpine lakes set among
heather and huckleberry patches will make the effort
worthwhile.
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The 5.4-mile Lake Twenty-Two trail is moderate in
difficulty but one older children will enjoy, especially
upon seeing the gargantuan western red cedar trees,
primeval forests, and cascading waterfalls.
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Just outside of Granite Falls is the moderate 6.5-mile
Lime Kiln trail that features lots of moss, gurgling creeks,
an historic lime kiln, twisted iron railroad railings, and a
walk down to the banks of the thunderous Stillaguamish
River.
Good Eats, Drinks Too
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Barbecue Bucket: pulled pork and beef brisket specialties plus ribs and more.
Open Thu. – Sun.
Playa Bonita Mexican Restaurant: freshly prepared salsa and guacamole, daily
dinner specials, popular favorites, and house specialties.
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Places to Sleep
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Cabin at Mount Pilchuck: kick back
on the deck of this restored ski rental
lodge right on the banks of the
Stillaguamish River.
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Country Cedar Inn: a Northwest
themed bed and breakfast on five
treed acres that serves a full break
fast and an optional four-course
dinner.
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Mountain Loop Bed & Breakfast:
retire to your private room after a
relaxing evening watching the TV or
playing music in the common area.
Full breakfast included.
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Paca Pride Guest Ranch: a rustic,
comfortable resort for tent and yurt
camping, plus a guest room in the
main log home.
Cabin at Mt. Pilchuck
Paca Pride Guest Ranch
Verlot & Barlow Pass
Stop in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest’s Verlot Ranger Station for overview
of the forest, to obtain trail-use passes, and learn about the latest in weather and trail
conditions.
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Area Trails
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•
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The six-mile Mount Pilchuck trail is popular with
experienced hikers who like scrambling over
boulders, climbing steep paths, and seeing
picturesque views from the fire lookout.
The 2.5-mile moderate Barlow Point trail leads
to an old lookout site at the edge of the historic
Monte Cristo mining district.
The four-mile Old Monte Cristo Townsite Trail,
popular with hikers and mountain bikers, follows
the original grade of the Everett and Monte
Cristo Railroad. While little of the old mining
town remains, the views of the rugged peaks and
forested mountains are spectacular.
Good Eats, Drinks Too
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Photo by Frankie Benka
The closest dining spot will be your own campsite or RV. Pick up provisions in
Granite Falls.
Places to Sleep
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Verlot Campground: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, offers 26 sites for tent
or RV camping.
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Darrington & Oso
Browse local stores such as Prairie Mountain Honey Company, Whitehorse Studio Fine
Leather Gallery and Highlanders Secondhand and Antique Store. Get a well-deserved
post-adventure massage at Hot Rock Massage.
Area Trails
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Take a stroll along the six-mile
Sauk River trail, which is
family-friendly and mostly level.
Listen to the roar of the river as
you weave between forest and
stream bank.
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The easy Boulder River
Waterfall trail gives beginning
hikers and families a spectacular
waterfall early in their journey.
Experienced hikers can continue
for a longer journey (up to nine
miles round-trip) and dip a toe in the north fork of the Stillaguamish River.
The two-mile Fortson Mill trail is kid-friendly. The faded town’s remaining
concrete ruins, the two millponds where salmon spawn, and nearby eagles, heron
and kingfishers will excite the youngsters’ imagination and curiosity.
Good Eats, Drinks Too
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Hometown Bakery Café: stop or a pre-hike coffee and cinnamon roll or carbo-load
with pizza slices and sodas.
Bradley’s Diner: with hearty fare including homemade biscuits and gravy,
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chicken fried steak, and burgers and salads.
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September 2015
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[Good Eats, Drinks Too continued]
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River Time Brewing: chill out with an ice cold handcrafted beer.
Oso General Store: fuel up with a refreshing scoop of Snoqualmie Ice Cream
(made right here in Snohomish County), fresh espresso, or gas for the car.
Places to Sleep
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Ellerie’s River Cottages on the Stillaguamish:
enjoy private access to the river. Prepare
breakfast when you want it with items
provided by the innkeeper.
Arlington
Hike or bike a couple more trails before returning to Arlington’s urban life filled with
casino action, live entertainment, shopping, art and cultural museums, and much more.
Arlington Area Trail
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Stretch your legs – as well as your children’s – on this easy two-mile Portage Creek
trail that leads to the 157-acre Portage Creek Wildlife Area situated on the
Stillaguamish River floodplain.
Pedal east on the 3.5-mile Whitehorse Trail from the Centennial Trail. The flat
route on rough gravel is perfect for bicyclists new to off-road riding.
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Good Eats, Drinks Too
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Skookum Brewery or Whiskey
Ridge Brewing: for a post hike
beer including amber, kolsch,
IPA, pale ale, porter, or rotating
offerings.
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Restaurant at Rhodes River
Ranch: offers diners a diverse yet
delicious full menu with views
overlooking an indoor working
arena for horse training and
riding.
Restaurant at Rhodes River Ranch
Places to Sleep
Arlington’s River Rock Inn
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•
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Arlington’s River Rock Inn: a secluded escape
offering Northwest-themed rooms, gourmet
breakfasts, and onsite spa (advance
reservations required for spa services).
Lil Norski Bed & Breakfast, a river retreat
serving deluxe breakfasts.
Mystic Mountain Bed and Breakfast offers
respite in a restored 1922 dairy barn with
views of the Stillaguamish River.
Additional hiking resources:
For more trails and information, go to Snohomish.org to download these helpful guides:
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2015 Hiking in Snohomish County – new trails and updated information as of
Aug. 2015.
2012 Hiking in Snohomish County – more trails to explore.
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Ten Hikes in Snohomish County – a handy brochure highlighting
popular trails.
Tourism Today
September 2015