Acme is a farming community surrounded by top-tier outdoor amenities
Acme is a quiet rural community in the heart of the South Fork Valley, in the foothills of the North Cascades range. The community began as an agricultural hub over 100 years ago and remains one to this day, with large working farms lining the main road, state Route 9. While farming still dominates the local economy, recent years have seen an uptick in retirees and remote workers relocating to the area to enjoy its scenic surroundings and slower pace. "It's definitely a farming community first and foremost," says real estate broker and lifelong resident Julie Brown of Windermere Real Estate. "Agriculture is at the center of Acme's identity. But it's also right next to the mountains and not too far from Mount Baker. It might not be as outdoors-oriented as other parts of Whatcom County, but hiking, fishing and camping are a big part of life."
A wide variety of custom-built homes
The local housing inventory is diverse, and includes everything from cabins to farmhouses to luxury homes, as well as a decent number of ranch-style homes and bungalows. Home ages also vary considerably, as virtually all properties in the area were custom-built rather than developed en masse. Most homes in the area sell for between $400,000 and $700,000, and often come with a bit of acreage. Wildfire risk does exist in the community and can affect insurance prices for homes closer to local forests.
Tons of hiking and camping opportunities nearby
The North Cascades mountains begin just east of town. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest covers most of the nearby mountains and is home to more glaciers and snowfields than any national forest outside of Alaska. Dozens of hiking trails and camping areas can be found within a short drive of Acme via Mosquito Lake Road, which runs into the mountains. The South Fork Nooksack River is another popular spot for outdoor recreation, offering excellent kayaking and trout fishing. South Fork Park, on the north bank of the river, is the only public park in the community and features a groomed loop trail popular with mountain bikers and horseback riders. While Lake Whatcom is just a couple of miles west of town as the crow flies, local mountains block any direct access to the east bank. It's only a 7-mile drive to the lake's south shore, though.
A small retail sector along state Route 9
Virtually all retail in the area is found along Valley Highway, a.k.a. state Route 9, the major arterial road in the area. The town's small commercial area sits along the highway just south of the South Fork Nooksack River, and includes Acme Gas Station, Acme General Store and the highly rated Acme Diner. The diner is known for its hearty American food, vintage ambiance and sizeable outdoor seating area. When locals need to pick up groceries, they generally make the 11-mile northward drive to Nugents Corner Market. Those in search of more extensive shopping options generally have to make the 25-mile drive to Bellingham.
Mount Baker public schools
The area's local schools are overseen by the Mount Baker School District, which has a C on Niche. Acme Elementary School, located in the heart of the community, also has a C rating, while Mount Baker Junior High School and Mount Baker Senior High School in nearby Deming have a C and a B-minus, respectively. Mount Baker High offers dual enrollment programs through partnerships with multiple colleges in Bellingham.
Live music at the Acme Diner
Acme doesn't have much in the way of major festivals, but the Acme Diner regularly hosts local and touring musical acts, which often draw large crowds during warmer months. Locals looking for additional entertainment generally head to Bellingham or Sedro-Woolley.
Locals rely on cars to get around
Apart from Mosquito Lake Road, which runs into the Cascades, state Route 9 is the only way in or out of Acme. There's no regular bus service in the area, so locals rely on private transportation to get around. "You definitely need a car to live there," says Brown. "Basically nothing is within walking distance for most people, except maybe a walk in the woods." Bellingham, Bellingham International Airport and the nearest major medical care are about 25 miles away by car. Sedro-Woolley is about 16 miles south.
