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Let's get outdoors on some trails at the Northern State Recreational Area that is located just east of Sedro Woolley. It's a cool area with historic structures / barns and nice scenery for those who haven't been there.

The NSRA includes hundreds of acres that were at one time the site of the Northern State Hospital’s agriculture undertakings. Included were massive poultry, pig and dairy farms. Hay, fruits and vegetables were also harvested.

Many of the farm buildings still stand. They are historic and are not to be entered. Trekking around the area, other barns and outbuildings will be encountered.

Distance = 2 miles

Dogs are welcomed on a leash
***No pass required***

Directions: Take Highway 20 east of Sedro-Woolley to Helmick Road. Turn north on Helmick. Continue for a half-mile. Turn left into the large, gravel parking lot.

Trail Information: [http://www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/ParksAndRecreation/parks/nsra.htm](https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/ParksAndRecreation/parks/nsra.htm&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw1lIOB6YnLSFB26uEI3fy5j)
WTA: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/northern-state-ghost-town
Map: https://skagittrailbuilders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/nsra--trail-map--updated-may-2025.pdf

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