Exploring the Haunting Beauty of Northern State Recreation Area

 









Nestled in Skagit County, Washington, the Northern State Recreation Area offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Once home to the sprawling Northern State Mental Hospital, this site now invites visitors to explore its extensive trail system, winding through wide-open pastures and forested lanes. As you wander, you'll encounter remnants of a bygone era - weathered barns, an old milking shed, and a cannery - silent witnesses to the thousands who once called this place home. 

One of the most poignant areas is the old cemetery, where at least 1,500 former patients and staff members rest. This somber site, along with the repurposed hospital buildings now used for job corps projects and drug rehabilitation, serves as a powerful reminder of the facility's peak in the 1950s when it housed 2,700 patients. As you explore, remember to approach the area with respect, particularly around sensitive locations. While active buildings are off-limits, the accessible areas offer ample opportunities for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike to discover the unique story of Northern State Recreation Area - a living museum that showcases changing societal attitudes, architectural grandeur, and the resilience of nature.

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