Concrete, nestled in the heart of the North Cascades, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a friendly place to unwind, Concrete has something for everyone. Here’s a deeper look at the seven reasons you should visit!
- Nice People
Concrete is more than a town; it’s a community built on kindness and connection. The locals embody the pioneer spirit, with neighbors helping neighbors and welcoming visitors like old friends. From the dedicated volunteers at the food bank to the passionate caretakers of the Concrete Heritage Museum, you’ll find people here who genuinely care about their community and its guests. Come meet us—it’s a little like coming home. - Trees. Rivers. Trails. Mountains.
We are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the towering trees of Rockport State Park’s ancient forest or hike trails in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. For water enthusiasts, Baker Lake offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, while Rasar State Park is perfect for eagle watching along the Skagit River. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, our outdoor offerings are unparalleled. - History
Step into a town steeped in history that dates back to its founding in 1890. Once known as “Cement City,” Concrete played a pivotal role in Washington’s industrial growth thanks to its cement plants. Today, you can explore historic Main Street buildings made from concrete after devastating fires in the early 20th century. Visit the Concrete Heritage Museum to learn about the town’s fascinating past through exhibits and events like Ghost Walk tours every October. - Parades
We love to celebrate and we love parades! From Mardi Gras festivities to Cascade Days and holiday-themed events like the Santa Parade during our Celtic Christmas Celebration, there’s always an excuse to gather and enjoy good company. These lively celebrations bring together locals and visitors alike for music, contests, and family-friendly fun. - Rain
Rain is part of what makes this area so lush and green. While some people may shy away from wet weather, we embrace it as a gift that nurtures our forests, rivers, and wildlife. Don’t forget your raincoat—then head out to enjoy misty hikes or cozy up indoors with a movie at the historic Concrete Theatre. - Mountain Fresh
The air here is as crisp and refreshing as it gets—thanks to our location near the North Cascades National Park and surrounding wilderness areas. Take deep breaths as you hike trails or relax by Baker Lake or Lake Shannon; you’ll feel rejuvenated by nature’s purity. It’s not just fresh air—it’s mountain magic. - Our Secrets
Concrete has its share of intriguing mysteries—stories about our haunted buildings, our famous “Telephone Sisters,” a strange incident related to “War of the Worlds,” and what happened when Hollywood came to town in the 1990s! Come see us and learn how the silos – those towering structures you’ll see when you arrive in Concrete – were featured in the movie “This Boy’s Life” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert DeNiro, and Ellen Barkin. The movie was based on a memoir of the same name by former Concrete resident Tobias Wolff. (Beyond this cinematic fame, those silos also stand as symbols of Concrete’s industrial heritage. Our cement built some pretty impressive dams!)We’ll be happy to let you in on our secrets!
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