GOLD BAR
3 STOPS
2 REQUIRED STOP
Named for traces of gold discovered along the Skykomish River, Gold Bar grew from a prospectors’ camp into a railroad, logging, and farming community surrounded by some of the Pacific Northwest’s most dramatic landscapes.
Incorporated: 1910
Photo of Gold Bar mascot by River and scenic view.
MORE ABOUT
GOLD BAR
Long before Gold Bar was incorporated in 1910, Indigenous families lived and traveled throughout the Skykomish Valley, making the area an important gathering place and route through the Cascades. Prospectors arrived in the late 1800s searching for gold, giving the community its memorable name. Soon afterward, logging, farming, mining, and the arrival of the Great Northern Railway helped transform the settlement into a thriving mountain town.
Photo from Gold Dust Days, Gold Bar's annual summer celebration.
Photo Credit Joe B
Photo of famous scenic hike to Wallace Falls in Gold Bar
Photo Credit to Unknown
START HERE
The stops below are listed in recommended route order to help guide your adventure. Visit each location in person, scan the QR code on-site, and complete stops as you explore Sky Valley’s history.
VISIT HISTORIC STOPS
HISTORY DATING BACK TO:
1910
Martin Osterholtz VFW Post 9417
301 3rd St, Gold Bar, WA 98251, USA
Located in downtown Gold Bar, the Martin-Osterholtz VFW Post serves as a community gathering place for veterans, families, and local organizations.
Access Information
The exterior may be viewed year-round. Interior access may be limited to events, meetings, and operating hours. Visitors should respect posted hours and private events.
HISTORY DATING BACK TO:
1947
Mountain Valley Chapel Open Bible Church
230 Lewis Ave, Gold Bar, WA 98251, USA
Located in Gold Bar, the church stands on land originally donated by town founder O.S. Lewis. The building is easily visible from public streets near the historic center of town.
Access Information
The exterior may be viewed year-round. Interior access is generally available during worship services, special events, and posted operating hours. Visitors should respect church activities and schedules.
HISTORY DATING BACK TO:
1904
OUR SPONSORS
The Sky Valley Heritage Hunt is made possible in part through funding provided by the Snohomish County Hotel-Motel Tax Fund and through the support of our sponsors, community partners, historical organizations, volunteers, and local advocates. Together, they help preserve, celebrate, and share the stories of the Sky Valley. Thank you for helping keep our history alive for future generations.
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