Meadowdale Beach

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.

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.