Located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains just 7 miles east of Lake Stevens, Granite Falls is the “jumping off” point to some of the most scenic vistas in the United States. As the Gateway to the Mountain Loop Highway and Mt. Baker/Snoqualmie National Forest, thousands of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts pass through Granite Falls each year.
A small, close-knit town of close to 2000 residents, the first stop light and a McDonald’s restaurant were new additions just a few years ago. Granite Falls is striving to retain its rural, small-town character and is graced with beautiful scenery and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
A Brief History Granite Falls started with a single timber mill in 1891, producing the railroad ties for the railway to the nearby Monte Cristo gold mines. The town was incorporated in 1903. The town boomed through the early parts of the 1900’s, with as many as twelve lumber mills operating at one time.
While all but one of the mills have since closed, Granite Falls remains tied to the twin industries of mining and forestry. Miller Shingle company has been in business since 1946 and is one of the largest employers in mEwn, while several quarries continue to employ numerous Granite Falls residents. But Granite Falls, like Lake Stevens, is becoming more and more a bedroom community, growing to nearly 2000 residents at last count. That number more than quadruples when you include residents of the surrounding area, and signs of suburban development are evident throughout this mostly rural community.
Shopping & Dining The town’s urban center? is primarily found on Granite and Stanley Avenues, featuring retail stores and restaurants. Surrounding this core are homes, schools, churches and most of the community service locations. The two-block area around the flashing red light in the center of downtown is home to a number of unique shops and boutiques. Almost all necessities are available in Granite Falls, A Red Apple numerous video rental places, a laundromat and dozens of businesses offering all kinds of services for home and auto.
Eating out is a pleasure in Granite Falls, where you’ll find several exceptional independent restaurants, including pizza, Italian, Mexican, and Asian. Two hometown cafes provide regulars and guests with outstanding casual breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. For a different experience, drive ten miles up the Mountain Loop Highway to the Mountain View Inn, which often features live music and dancing, along with fine food. A couple of pubs and several takeout places round out the eating possibilities in Granite Falls.
Government City Hall is the focal point for Granite Falls and many community activities. The city government is composed of a mayor and council, which meets twice a month. The current mayor is Rella Morris, assisted by City Clerk Gerry James and Deputy Clerk (Treasurer) Carol Hutchinson. All city services fall under the direction of the Council. Those living outside city limits fall under the jurisdiction of Snohomish County.
Granite Falls is also served by Community Transit, Snohomish County’s public transportation system. It offers commuter and local bus service, ridesharing and vanpools. For more information call 425-353-RIDE.
Community Resources The Granite Falls Library is located downtown at 101 E. Pioneer and is open Monday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thursdays and Sundays. The library is home to reading programs for school-age kids and story hours for preschoolers. Construction is beginning this summer on a new, state-of-the-art library with a lot more elbow room!
The Granite Falls Boys and Girls Club offers fun activities for kids both after school and during the summer months. For more information, call 360-691-1300. The Granite Falls Food Bank provides food to the needy and can be reached by calling City Hall at 360-691-6441. The school district administers the Early Childhood Education Assistance Program, which provides education to low-income preschoolers and their families. Call 360-691-4848 for information.
Service Organizations Granite Falls has many active community organizations, including a busy Chamber of Commerce, American Legion and Eagles Club. Scouting, campfire and 4H provide opportunities for kids to get involved.
Religion Religion plays a strong role in the lives of many Granite Falls residents. Assembly of God, Missionary Alliance, Foursquare, Gospel, Jehovah’s Witness, and Lutheran well as non-denominational churches are all represented.
