The best walks and hikes around North Lynnwood

The Lund's Gulch Trail offers a delightful journey through a lush, second-growth forest ravine, culminating in direct access to a sandy Puget Sound beach. You'll descend via wide switchbacks and an 85-step staircase, passing beneath railroad tracks through a unique "spooky tunnel" before emerging onto Meadowdale Beach with expansive views of Browns Bay and the Olympic Mountains. The trail is an easy 1.4 miles (2.2 km) round trip, with a gentle 62 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 38 minutes.

Located within Meadowdale Beach Park in Lynnwood, Washington, the trail is accessible year-round. While the initial descent is easy, the return climb is gradual but steady, making it suitable for most skill levels and families. Expect some muddy sections during the wet season, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The park also features picnic tables near the beach, making it a great spot for a longer outing.

This trail stands out for its surprisingly secluded natural environment despite its suburban location, offering a chance to see salmon spawning in Lund's Gulch Creek in the fall. It's a fantastic option for beachcombing, birdwatching, and enjoying marine life, especially at low tide. Plus, it's a dog-friendly route, provided your furry friend stays on a leash.

Step into a surprisingly serene forest on the McCollum Park Forest Loop, a delightful 0.8-mile (1.3 km) hiking path that feels far removed from city life. This easy, 20-minute loop winds through shady woods with surprisingly large trees, often paralleling North Creek where you might spot local wildlife. It's a perfect, gentle escape for anyone seeking a quick dose of nature.

Planning your visit to this McCollum Park trail is simple; it's accessible year-round, though you should expect muddy conditions during the rainy season. Parking is readily available at McCollum Pioneer Park, making it an easy stop for a spontaneous outdoor moment. Dogs are permitted on leash.

Beyond the peaceful forest loop, McCollum Pioneer Park offers more to explore, including access to the longer paved North Creek Trail and the Northwest Stream Center with its interpretive boardwalk. For families, an intermittent fort in the woods adds a playful element, and splashing in North Creek is a popular summer activity, making this a great family-friendly destination in Everett, WA.

The Lunds Gulch Trail offers a delightful descent through a vibrant, green ravine, leading you to the shores of Puget Sound. You'll wind through a forest of second-growth and some old-growth trees, following the soothing sounds of Lunds Gulch Creek. The path is generally wide and well-maintained, eventually passing under railroad tracks via a tunnel before opening up to the expansive Meadowdale Beach, where you can enjoy views of Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains.

This easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) hiking route, with 386 feet (118 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes. While the initial descent is gentle, the return climb is a steady uphill effort, so be prepared for that. The trail is accessible year-round, but parking at Meadowdale Beach Park can get busy, so an early start is often a good idea.

One of the trail's biggest draws is its direct access to a beautiful Puget Sound beach, making it a popular spot for beachcombing and birdwatching, especially at low tide. The presence of spawning salmon in Lunds Gulch Creek during the fall adds another layer of natural interest. It's a fantastic option for families, offering a mix of forest exploration, a unique railroad tunnel, and a rewarding beach destination.

The Rhody Ridge Arboretum Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a vibrant botanical garden in Bothell, Washington. You'll wander along well-maintained paths, surrounded by an impressive collection of around 300 rhododendrons, alongside maples, magnolias, and native plants like salal and ferns, creating a serene "nature trail" atmosphere. This short 0.3-mile (0.5 km) route involves a minimal 49 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, making it a quick 9-minute journey perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the park is open daily from 7 AM to dusk, and leashed dogs are welcome to join you on the trail. There are no permits or fees required, and parking is generally available. It's an ideal spot for a spontaneous outing, offering a refreshing break in nature without extensive planning.

This 11-acre botanical garden began as a community dream by Fir and Merlin Butler, who envisioned a lasting greenspace for everyone to enjoy. The arboretum's design aims to evoke the feeling of walking through the North Cascades, but with an ornamental touch, showcasing the power of individual vision to create a cherished local gem.