The Best Hikes Near Everett, Washington
Everett sits at the doorstep of some of the best hiking in the Pacific Northwest. Within the city limits you've got forested gulches, river trails, and waterfront walks. Drive 30 minutes east and you're in foothill forests. An hour out and you're in the Cascades — alpine lakes, mountain lookouts, and old-growth forest that'll make you forget the rest of the world exists.
Easy: In-Town & Waterfront Walks
Perfect for families, casual walkers, and anyone short on time.
Langus Riverfront Park & Spencer Island
Everett's most popular walking and running destination, and a gem for birdwatchers. The trails wind through the Snohomish River Delta, with views of Mount Baker and Mount Pilchuck on clear days. Spencer Island is one of the best birdwatching spots on the North Sound — expect bald eagles, great blue herons, hawks, and a variety of waterfowl.
Lowell Riverfront Trail
A paved, flat trail along the Snohomish River with benches and views the whole way. Great for families, strollers, and anyone looking for a relaxed walk with scenery. Can get sunny in sections with limited tree cover, so bring water in summer.
Japanese Gulch
A network of forested trails right within Everett's city limits that feel surprisingly wild. Winding paths through a lush green ravine with a flowing creek — perfect for a quick escape without leaving town. The trails can get muddy, so wear proper footwear.
Centennial Trail
This paved recreational trail runs along the Pilchuck River through multiple cities and is ideal for walking, running, or biking. Along the way you can stop for craft beer, coffee, playgrounds, and food. Pick a section and go — it works for a quick 30-minute stroll or a half-day adventure.
Moderate: Short Drive, Big Reward
A short drive from Everett for more rewarding terrain.
Meadowdale Beach Park
One of the best short hikes in the area. The trail drops through a deep green ravine along a salmon-spawning stream, past giant ferns, massive old-growth stumps, and towering cedars. At the bottom, you emerge onto a quiet Puget Sound beach with sweeping views of Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains. Arrive early on weekends — the parking lot fills up fast. 15 min drive
Lord Hill Regional Park
Nearly 1,500 acres of forested trails between Monroe and Snohomish. Wonderful for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and horseback riding. Despite its size, it doesn't get crowded — one of the best-kept secrets in Snohomish County. 25 min drive
Boulder River Trail
A gorgeous forest walk along the Boulder River with two large waterfalls within the first half of the trail. The falls are accessible within the first couple of miles, so you don't need to hike the entire length. The trail passes through old-growth forest, and the sound of the river is your constant companion. 45 min drive
Old Robe Canyon Trail
A trail with real history. Originally used by miners over a century ago, it leads past a deep gorge, through lush forest, and to a giant stone lime kiln from the area's mining days. The kiln is a great photo opportunity and a fascinating piece of local history. Some steep and uneven sections. 40 min drive
Challenging: Mountain Adventures
For hikers ready to earn their views.
Lake 22
One of the most popular hikes in the area for good reason. The trail climbs through old-growth forest, past waterfalls and boardwalks, to a stunning alpine lake ringed by rocky slopes. Steep enough to feel like an accomplishment but doable for most reasonably fit hikers. Go on a weekday if you can — weekends get busy. 45 min via Mountain Loop Hwy
Mount Pilchuck Lookout
This is the showstopper. The trail climbs through old-growth forest and granite boulder fields to a historic fire lookout perched on the summit. On a clear day, the 360-degree panoramic views are absolutely staggering — Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and the North Cascades. The final approach involves some scrambling over boulders. Best hiked June through October. 1 hour drive
Gothic Basin
For experienced hikers looking for something adventurous. The trail starts at Barlow Pass and climbs steeply into a subalpine basin with alpine lakes, wildflowers, and dramatic rocky terrain. The route is rougher and less maintained, involving some route-finding — but the payoff is a remote, breathtaking setting that most people never see. Best attempted in late summer. 1 hour via Mountain Loop Hwy
What to Know Before You Hit the Trail
Your Hiking Home Base
Timber & Tide in Everett puts you right at the launchpad for all of these trails. Wake up, grab your gear, and you're on the trail before the crowds arrive. Come home to a comfortable space, clean up, and head to the waterfront for dinner. That's the kind of day the Pacific Northwest was made for.