Marblemount is a mountain village at the meeting point of two rivers
Tucked away at the confluence of the Skagit and Cascade Rivers, Marblemount is a mountain village surrounded by dense alpine forests and North Cascade Mountain peaks. With around 300 residents, it has a small-town atmosphere — no chain stores, just a few local diners, inns and a campground. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to appreciate, from fishing and kayaking on the rivers to hiking on backcountry trails in the mountains. “The outdoors are unparalleled. The river is so peaceful and impressive. The sky is actually dark at night, and the stars actually shine. When you wake up in the morning, you wake up to the sound of birds chirping,” says Realtor Amanda Toscano of Century 21, who grew up in the nearby town of Concrete.
Trails, wildlife and water adventures near Marblemount
The Skagit River, a federally protected “Wild and Scenic” river, is ideal for rafting, fishing and kayaking, with guided floats through the Bald Eagle Natural Area. It’s one of the nation’s largest destinations for wintering bald eagles, who can be seen perched in the trees and swooping down to the water as they search for fish. The Marblemount Boat Launch Trail is a great place for a riverside stroll, birdwatching and fishing for steelhead, salmon and trout. Beyond the town are the North Cascades National Park, featuring expansive wilderness destinations with hundreds of miles of trails and some of the best views on the west coast.
Cabins, farmhouses and off-grid homes on wooded lots
The town’s housing reflects its rugged surroundings, with a mix of cabins, vintage farmhouses and off-the-grid modern homes. “It’s not like living in a city, and I try to prepare people for that when they’re looking out here. You have to be a lot more prepared, whether that’s getting a backup generator or stocking up on dry goods,” Toscano says. Most properties sit on lots that range from around a quarter-acre to upwards of five acres, offering plenty of space and privacy. The streets are lined with tall trees and generous setbacks, with gravel and dirt lanes weaving between homes. Many residences feature sweeping riverine, valley and mountain views, especially those on hillside lots. Houses rarely come up for sale, but recent listings have ranged from around $400,000 to $750,000.
High flood risk affects many homes and access routes
Marblemount is at a very high risk of flooding because of its riverside location. Many of its residential properties are susceptible to flooding, especially during times of heavy rainfall or following the springtime snowmelt. Roads can also close in the town during floods. In some areas, county officials have worked with homeowners to relocate them further from the river’s edge.
A few local spots for burgers, beer and coffee
Marblemount’s residents and road-trippers will find a handful of shops, restaurants and inns in town. Marblemount Diner is a local favorite for burgers, fries and homemade pie, while Upriver Grill & Taproom, part of the North Cascades Inn, serves American fare, pizza and craft beer. Skagit General Store, about 15 miles away, is the go-to for groceries, snacks, fuel and everyday essentials. Those looking for a morning jolt can swing by Prospectors Country Coffee, a cozy coffee stand and drive-thru that serves espresso drinks and breakfast items.
Students travel 17 miles to attend school in Concrete
Students will have to make the 17-mile trek to Concrete, Washington to get to school. Concrete Elementary School, which serves kindergarten through sixth grade, earns a C-minus grade from Niche. The next step is Concrete High School, for seventh through 12th grade, which receives a B-minus. The high school has a four-year graduation rate of 79%. It offers a full slate of athletic programs, from cheerleading and softball to football, track and field and soccer.
Remote location means limited access to services
Marblemount has no public transportation, so locals will have to rely on vehicles to get around. It’s over 40 miles to the region’s nearest mid-sized cities: Sedro-Woolley, Burlington and Mount Vernon. Sedro-Woolley is a home to PeaceHealth United General Medical Center, the nearest major hospital. It’s about 116 miles to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the region’s most trafficked airport.
