Footsore in Snohomish County’s southern frontier

With summer in full swing, hiking is a way to get out and enjoy all the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Within Snohomish County, numerous parks and nature reserves are home to trails perfect for a day- or even just an hour-long adventure.

Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll or are eager to fine-tune your skills on an advanced trail, here are five hikes to check out at the southern edge of Snohomish County, and how to prepare.

How to prepare:

According to the Washington Trails Association, clothing, proper essentials and footwear are vital for a fun and safe hike.

1. Clothing

Although a warm day in Washington feels rare and you may want to take the opportunity to wear just shorts and a T-shirt, proper attire is essential when spending time outdoors. WTA advises packing a light layer, a rain layer and something insulated. A synthetic shirt and a light fleece are great to have in store in case there is a change in the forecast.

2. Proper Essentials

WTA urges hikers to pack the Ten Essentials. These include navigation, hydration, nutrition, rain and insulation gear, firestarter, first aid kit, tools, illumination, sun protection and shelter. The Ten Essentials may seem excessive, but WTA advises being aware of and responsible for your own safety while on the trail.

3. Footwear

Hikers are advised to use proper footwear to avoid physical harm. Hiking sandals, tennis shoes or hiking boots are all choices. Also noted by WTA, one’s footwear only needs to be as technical as the hike they are going on.

Where to hike:

1. Mainline Trail

3.1 Miles roundtrip, Estimated 1 hour

Located just east of Highway 522 in the Paradise Valley Conservation Area

The Mainline Trail is located in the Paradise Valley Conservation Area. Home to mossy trees, this out-and-back trail is considered moderate and is a great place mountain biking and trail running. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.

2. Cherry Creek Falls

5 Miles roundtrip, Estimated 2 hours

Located just east of Highway 203 in the Mackworth State Forest

Located just across the King County line near Duvall, this hike ends at a waterfall and is considered moderate. The hike is located just outside the Mackworth State Forest and is dog friendly as long as you keep a leash clipped on. Cherry Creek Falls, the destination at the end of the hike, is a former logging camp. The falls are 25 feet high and flow into a wide, swimmer-friendly pond below.

3. Beaver Lake Hike Trail

Located just north of Highway 522 in Lord Hill Regional Park

1.8 Miles, Estimated 48 minutes

Short, sweet and simple, the Beaver Lake Hike Trail is located in Lord Hill Regional Park. With fields, shaded woods and trails, Beaver Lake Hike Trail is a diverse destination for anything from a picnic to a run to a hike. Quiet and pet-friendly, Beaver Lake Hike Trail is a short and easy way to opt-outside for an hour or two.

4. West View Trail to Devil’s Butte

3.5 Miles, Estimated 2 hour 30 minutes

Located just north of Highway 522 in Lord Hill Regional Park

Considered a moderately challenging route, the trail to Devil’s Butte is well maintained and offers a quiet outing. Visitors can expect some gravel, some dirt and some wooden pathways throughout the trail. Open to horses, expect a muddy walkway in places-especially if it rained recently. The trail is dog-friendly so long as they are leashed.

5. Snohomish River and Shadow Lake Trail

1.7 Miles, Estimated 32 minutes

Located just north of Highway 522 in Lord Hill Regional Park

The Snohomish River Lake Trail is a short, out-and-back hike that offers access to and a view of the Snohomish River. The trail is mostly forested but unfortunately dogs are not allowed. The trail is considered easy and family friendly for those of all ages.