On the fertile soils of the lower Skagit Valley (an hour drive north of Seattle), small farms predominate, and often welcome visitors. Animal breeders are raising llamas, Cashmere goats, ostriches, emu, and buffalo. Country gardens abound--Skagit Rose Farms (culinary herbs), Larkspur (flowers), Barnhaven (lilies), Hedlin (dahlias, produce), Merritt's (apples), and Skagit Flats, an 11-acre display garden with historic granary turned country tearoom. You’ll discover an organic vegetable garden tended by artists; pumpkin patches, tulip and seed growers, native bulb growers, berry farmers and even an oyster bar.

A terrific way to explore this area is on a bike. You can pedal in and out of villages (LaConner, Bow, Bay View, Edison, Conway), next to bays and bayous, past country stores and eateries, through pancake-flat farmlands with mountains soaring in the distance, including the shinning snow-capped peak of Mount Baker.

The Skagit Valley is prime territory for watching winter wildlife. Bald eagles, half a dozen species of hawks, trumpeter swans, snow geese and other migratory waterfowl stop here. Guides offer tours November through February.

Locals Suggest:

• The famous April Tulip Festival is glorious but crowded. Come mid-week and pedal through the petals.
• Visit Tillinghast Seed Co. in LaConner for history, greenhouse, gifts.
• Visit the Valley Museum of Art in LaConner for “Northwest School” paintings.
• Visit White Swan Guest House on Fir Island for gardens, views and wildlife.
• Visit Breazeale Interpretive Center for excellent wildlife exhibits.