Live Off the Beaten Path in Snohomish, Washington
After years of living in cities, I have finally accepted that the thrill of tall buildings and clubs followed by a full meal at a restaurant at 3am has maybe faded. Perhaps this is what it means to get older. (Also I threw my back out last week, so perhaps that is what it means to get older.) In short, my husband and I are looking to move back home to Washington from Colorado next year. We want to live in the greater Seattle area, but somewhere quieter and closer to nature than Seattle itself.
Of our options, Snohomish is looking pretty good. One of Washington State’s tucked away, funky gems, this rural farming community sits between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Range, about 45 minutes northeast of downtown Seattle.
If you’re interested in properties in this area, check out Pickett Street’s listings. Even better, get in touch with the team to chat all things real estate at info@pickettstreet.com or (425) 502-5397.
Area Vibes
Budget Travel recently voted it “one of the coolest small towns in America.” Plus, we recently ranked Snohomish as one of the best Seattle suburbs for outdoor access. The average house costs about $573,000. Plus, this area is home to individuals and families of all generations, from millennials to baby boomers.
Snohomish is located in the heart of Washington’s gorgeous northcountry: an urban zone on the edge of the wilderness, with farms and cozy small towns. Snohomish offers all the perks of a rural community—easy access to hiking and nature, delicious food and beer, and quiet neighborhoods.
Residents love the Snohomish Co-op, which was started in 1935 to provide fuel to local farmers and a food community to residents. Today, you buy nearly everything there, from clothes to pet supplies to lawn and garden products.
Although quiet and rural, this town is just a 15-minute drive from the larger, and currently up-and-coming city of Everett. So, if you occasionally feel a craving for city life, you can always check out some of Everett’s happenings.
What to Do
One resident via Reddit notes that “if you like hiking and beer, Snohomish is great.” The town’s enormous evergreen forest/nature preserve Lord Hill Regional Park features several trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Also, the gorgeous Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls trailhead is just 45 minutes from downtown Snohomish.
Additionally, this quirky community is known to be one of the best places in Washington for antiques. Its historic downtown hosts the enormous Star Center Antique Mall, as well as Antique Station Victoria Village.
Where to Dine
Fred’s Rivertown Alehouse offers an extensive rotating tap of local brews and ale from elsewhere along the West Coast. Locals also love the aptly named Sound to Summit, Snotown Brewery, Lost Canoe Brewing Company, and the wildly popular Trails End Taphouse and Restaurant (do you think there’s enough beer in Snohomish??)
For meals, try Andy’s Fish House for casual seafood. Or, check out The Cabbage Patch, a restaurant that has a cozy fireside lounge and is located in a historic building with some—er—colorful stories. Many patrons have reported seeing the ghost of a young girl in the upstairs dining room!
For more information about properties in Snohomish, or elsewhere in the Seattle area, get in touch with Pickett Street at info@pickettstreet.com or (425) 502-5397.