Directions
From I-5, take Hwy. 20 East. Approximately 30 miles east of the North Cascades National Park Ranger Station in Sedro Woolley you will find the entrance to Rockport State Park on the North side of the highway. Upon entering the park, follow the road to the right and park in the parking area. Follow signs towards the trailhead which is near the 'Campground Closed' signs.
Notes
This is an interpretive trail with numerous informational placards along the route. The trail is hard-packed gravel built to ADA standards though there are some spots along the trail that will take more effort to ascend. Generally speaking, the trail is level.
In short order, you are among the diverse ecosystem that an old-growth forest provides. While you may watch your step looking at the forest floor it’s worth pausing and looking at the giants rising skyward. Depending on the year, you may even catch a glimpse of snow fields atop Sauk Mountain.
As the trail continues, the sound of the traffic from the nearby Hwy. 20 fades. As wind rustles through the forest canopy, birds call out, and streams babble as the water cascades over the waterway as it heads toward Skagit River.
Once you have completed the loop, wandering the former campgrounds you can see remnants of former camp sites and facilities that supported campers. Since the campground closed in 2007, nature is taking over the former camp sites as well as other fixtures. What at one time was a clear spot for someone to camp, years of fallen leaves, needles, branches, and other organic matter that has fallen have covered many of the spots. Some are indiscernible save an out-of-place spigot that catches glimmers of sunlight. Walking along the road of the former campground is an enjoyable experience.