Dog walking in Big Lake

E College Way/ Riverside Dr

Want to mix exercise and art? Check out Mount Vernon’s E College Way/ Riverside Dr neighborhood, about five miles from Big Lake. The Kulshan Trail runs through this neighborhood. This 2.5-mile paved trail is lined with lush vegetation and mature trees and features unique art sculptures created by local artists along the way. Walking, jogging, biking and skating are pawpular on this path. Leash your pup and explore this trail’s natural and artistic beauty. You’ll want to bring water and cleanup bags to keep the trail in pristine shape. Although there are many access points, a good place to start your walk is at the intersection of Riverside Dr and Alder Ln. Park on the east side of Riverside Dr and follow the signs for the trail to the northeast.

Mount Vernon City Center

Just five miles from Big Lake, Mount Vernon’s City Center neighborhood is a pawsome place to take your pup. Get some exercise and see the city’s sights on the Skagit Riverwalk, west of Main Street. Easily access the .5-mile trail near the Moose Lodge on Division Street. Leash your dog and stroll on the paved path next to the beautiful Skagit River. You’ll have scenic water views on the west side of the path and see some of Mount Vernon’s quaint shops and restaurants to the east. If you work up an appetite, stop along the way at the Deli Next Door for a yummy sandwich and soup on their pet-friendly patio. There are lots of other neighborhood restaurants that welcome leashed dogs in their outdoor seating areas, including Calico Cupboard Old Town Café and Bakery, and Skagit River Brewery.

Hillcrest Park

Looking for a pleasant spot to hang out with Fido? Head to the Hillcrest Park neighborhood in Mount Vernon, about five miles from Big Lake. The neighborhood’s namesake park has nearly 31-acres where you and your leashed dog can explore. While Hillcrest Park has the usual park amenities like a playground, picnic areas, restrooms and athletic fields, it also has lots of beautiful natural space with mature trees and gardens that make it a woofderful place for a walk. There are big open grassy fields and walking paths that wind through the park, too. It’s a good idea to bring water and cleanup bags.

Little Mountain Rd

Whether you’re a serious hiker or you’re just looking for a nice walk in the woods, you and your pup will love the Little Mountain Rd neighborhood in Mount Vernon, about five miles from Big Lake. The neighborhood’s Little Mountain Park has nearly 10 miles of trails for you and your leashed dog to explore. If you and Fido are looking for a challenge, check out the Little Mountain Park Loop. This 3.7-mile trail winds through beautiful lush forest and has amazing summit views. If you’re looking for a mellow walk, try the .2-mile Sidekick Trail that meanders next to a creek. Pack water and cleanup bags for your adventure!

Bakerview Park

If you’re looking for off-leash fun, check out Mount Vernon’s Bakerview Park neighborhood, just five miles from Big Lake. The neighborhood is home to a beautiful 39-acre park that shares the same name and has tons of fun things to do! There will be lots of tail wagging in the off-leash area, Bakerview Dog Park. This fenced-in area is flat and grassy, making it pawsome for a game of fetch. There are large and small dog zones, a picnic table, doggie water fountains in warmer months, and cleanup bags. Bakerview Park also has wide open fields and walking paths where your leashed pup is welcome. There’s lots of other fun things to do for the rest of the family at this park, including a skate park, a BMX track, a basketball court and a playground.