Long awaited Mountain Loop Highway opening set to bring back tourists
BY CHUCK TUCK | JOURNAL REPORTER
Plan on making a day drive with the family beginning this weekend
It has been about five years since the partial closure of the Mountain Loop Hwy. near Barlow Pass outside of Granite Falls, but the $10 million dollar project is at its completion.

Part of the highway was closed after floods in 2003 washed away sections of the road on this picturesque highway.

A favorite among day hikers, campers, fishers, and outdoor enthusiasts, the 100 mile stretch of road takes thousands through some of Washington’s most stunning outdoor scenic points between Granite Falls, Darrington,

and Arlington.
This coming weekend, June 28 and 29, will mark the grand re-opening of the highway since its renovation with the official kickoff set to begin at noon with a ceremony. The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at Barlow Pass and performed by the National Forest Service.

“There will be weekend-long celebrations in Arlington, Granite Falls, and Darrington surrounding the event, with special promotional activities at Verlot, and Barlow Pass,” Fred Cruger of Granite Falls said.

Cruger was also quick to point out that the Mountain Loop is the second largest tourist attraction in Snohomish County behind the Boeing factory tour.

Everyone is encouraged to come out to the ceremony and enjoy the drive along the highway.

As for the weather, it’s forecasted to be around 68 degrees on both days which should make for a nice day of hiking.

For other information regarding the Mountain Loop Hwy. festivities, you can visit their website at: www.mountainloopexperience.com.

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