There’s nothing quite like a walk in Snohomish to remind you of nature’s quiet magic. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a paved riverfront path or wandering through a forested loop, the local trails in and around Snohomish offer more than just a chance to stretch your legs—they're a living classroom of Pacific Northwest flora and fauna.
Here’s a look at three favorite trails that bring you up close to the beautiful biodiversity that calls Snohomish home.
Snohomish Riverfront Trail: A Quick Walk Full of Wonder
Don't let its short distance fool you—the Snohomish Riverfront Trail is packed with character. This 0.3-mile paved trail meanders alongside the north bank of the Snohomish River, connecting Cady Landing and Kla Ha Ya Park in the heart of downtown.
As you walk, keep your eyes peeled for mallard ducks paddling in the river or dabbling in the shallows. Their iridescent green heads and calm demeanor are a familiar sight and a great reminder of how well wildlife adapts to urban life.
Nestled in the shade of the trees, you might also spot the soft pink blooms of the Pacific bleeding heart. This delicate native wildflower thrives in moist soil and adds a gentle pop of color to spring and early summer strolls.
Centennial Trail: From Historic Rails to Natural Riches
The Centennial Trail is a 30-mile stretch of multi-use pathway that connects Snohomish to Arlington and beyond, following the former Seattle, Lake Shore, and Eastern Railway line. Whether you're biking, jogging, or taking the dog for a walk, this trail is one of the most scenic and peaceful ways to explore the region.
One of the joys of the trail is discovering salmonberry bushes along the way. These early bloomers produce magenta flowers in the spring and golden-orange berries by summer. They’re edible, slightly tart, and beloved by both humans and wildlife alike.
Above you, the drumming of a northern flicker—a large woodpecker with a polka-dot belly and bright orange underwings—might catch your attention. Flickers are often seen on the ground foraging for ants, or clinging to tree trunks, adding rhythm to your walk.
Pipeline Trail to Lookout Loop: A Forest Escape Close to Town
For something a little more off the beaten path, the Pipeline Trail to Lookout Loop offers a 3.7-mile woodland journey just minutes from downtown. This route is popular among hikers and trail runners alike, and during quieter times, you might even feel like you have the forest all to yourself.
The towering Western Red Cedar, one of the most iconic trees in the Northwest, provides shelter and shade. Look beneath their branches for patches of creeping buttercup, a glossy-leafed ground cover with cheerful yellow blooms that light up the forest floor.
With a bit of luck, you might hear the croak or chorus of the Pacific chorus frog, especially near wetter areas of the loop. These tiny frogs are a vibrant part of our local ecosystem and have a voice that’s much louder than their body size suggests!
And don’t forget to look up—or listen closely—for the red-breasted nuthatch. These tiny birds are known for their upside-down antics on tree trunks and their nasal "yank-yank" calls. They're small, but full of spunk, much like Snohomish itself.
Every Walk is a Discovery
Whether you're a lifelong local or just visiting for the weekend, there’s something incredibly grounding about getting outside and noticing the natural beauty that surrounds us. The trails in Snohomish are not just routes for recreation—they’re reminders of the rich, living world right at our feet (and sometimes overhead).
So next time the sun peeks out—or even if it doesn't—lace up your shoes, grab a pair of binoculars, and head out for a stroll. There's a salmonberry ripe for picking, a nuthatch calling your name, and a trail waiting to reconnect you with the wild and wonderful side of Snohomish.
There’s nothing quite like a walk in Snohomish to remind you of nature’s quiet magic