WHO WE ARE

The Town of Darrington is a beautifully authentic rural mountain community. We are a place of genuine people, rugged landscape and a community carved by history. Our local identity rests on our relationship with the surrounding environment. Brilliant stars that shine at night can still be admired in a sky framed by snow capped peaks and mountains with native names and stories such as Skadulqwas and SoBalhiAlhi.

Our Story

The ancestors of the Sauk, Suiattle, and Stillaguamish peoples first explored and settled these ancient lands of glacier carved valleys and mountains. They established routes such as the “Hi Khaed” (carry over) which became the canoe portage between the Stillaguamish and Sauk rivers and gained extensive knowledge of the land where early miners came to explore. The miners were soon joined by loggers and farmers and Darrington became a thriving community providing the valley with lumber and goods. Over generations, mining faded away and logging evolved from mules and steam donkeys to skidders and feller bunchers. Today, many of our residents identify with their innovative and resourceful past to embrace and plan for the future.

The heart of our community lives within our strong sense of family, culture and love of the surrounding forest and environment. American flags adorn our streets during the 4th of July celebration which brings together many generations of families and friends to celebrate our nation’s birthday. The Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe hosts a yearly pow-wow that brings native performers from across the continent to honor their rich culture and heritage. On any particular weeknight you will find us at our beloved Community Center gymnasium cheering for our favorite sport and supporting our youth. In the early hours of the morning the coffee stands are lined up with dedicated folks on their way to work. The log truck drivers proudly boast hearty loads of hemlock and fir on their way to the Hampton Mill to be processed into lumber that is distributed to worldwide markets. We work hard and play hard with the grit and determination that can only be surpassed by the magnitude of the rugged beauty of the mountains and rivers that surround us.

Visitors will always find the bounty they are looking for, which is inseparable from the people. It is our community who will make you feel at home, who will appease your curiosity, and give you cause to remember your journey to a true community defined by place. Come for the day, or spend a lifetime.