GROTTO
1 STOP
1 REQUIRED STOP
Hidden among the forests and mountains of the upper Skykomish Valley, Grotto grew from the railroad era and remains a reminder of the small communities that once supported travel and industry through the Cascades.
Eastablished: 1900s
This is looking south across the mainline into the middle of the Northwest Portland Cement plant and the aerial tramway beyond that. Sixty years ago it was the largest industrial employer in the Skykomish valley.
Photo Credit Unknown
MORE ABOUT
GROTTO
Grotto has a rich history that dates back to its early days as a railroad construction camp in the 1890’s. The community was named for the deep gorges and ravines of Grotto Mountain, which overhangs the town.
The Northwestern Portland Cement Company plant, was established in 1926 in Grotto. It was a major industrial facility that utilized local limestone and clay to produce cement. The plant operated for three decades, it supplied materials for many railroad projects and the Grand Coulee Dam construction in the 1930’s. It employed over 100 people. The monument you are looking at stands proudly as the only reminder of the plant and its commitment to the safety of their employees.
Today Grotto is still a small residential community, and is know for its scenic mountain environment. No traces of the cement plant can be found.
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Northwestern Portland Cement Company Grotto, WA
Photo Credit, Lee Pickett, Public Domain, Wikimedia.
Northwest Portland Cement Co. buildings at Grotto, WA in 1928.
Photo Credit 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.
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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