North Fork

The North Fork is a primitive boat ramp located on the south bank of the North Fork Skagit River, approximately 0.5 mile upstream of the Best Road bridge near Mount Vernon. This is a hand-launch and small boat access point suitable for kayakers and canoeists looking to explore this section of the Skagit River system. The site offers minimal facilities—there is no formal boat launch structure or restrooms on-site, making it best suited for paddlers who are self-sufficient and comfortable with basic access conditions.

Paddlers should note that overnight and long-term parking are not permitted at this location. The access area is situated in a rural setting west of Mount Vernon, offering a quieter alternative to more developed boat ramps in the region. For those seeking more amenities, nearby options include Edgewater Park and Riverfront Park in Mount Vernon and Sedro-Woolley, both of which feature boat ramps and restroom facilities. The North Fork Skagit River offers opportunities to explore a section of the broader Skagit River system, with potential paddling routes that can connect to the surrounding waterways and eventual access to Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve downstream.