Ken Wilcox has lived in Western Washington (including the Everett area) for 40 years, wearing out more than a few hiking boots exploring the riches of the wet side of the state.
He became so well-versed in the trail systems of Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan and Snohomish counties that he said his co-workers “would ask me for ideas — over and over again (including) where to hike where you can go downhill in both directions.”
Now there’s wishful thinking.
Eventually people encouraged him to write a book. He’s now the author of “Hiking Whatcom County” and “Hiking the San Juan Islands,” and recently released the second edition of “Hiking Snohomish County” (www.nwwildbooks.com, $15).
Although Whatcom County has Mount Baker, the beauty-contest winner over Snohomish County’s Glacier Peak, this county “has pretty dramatic scenery that’s more easily accessible … huge walls, rocky, craggy summits and deep valleys,” Wilcox said.
During the winter, hikers are prevented from enjoying those places on foot because of the snow pack and short days. But there’s an upside to that.
“It gives us good reason to check out some superb short hikes around Snohomish County, with plenty of time for a cozy weekend breakfast, a decaf mocha and still be home for an early dinner.”
Here are Wilcox’s thoughts on his Fab Four of local lowland hikes:
Edmonds’ walkable waterfront: Spend a few hours wandering lonely beaches or 20 minutes strolling the shore of Puget Sound amid urban art and wide open views. Should the weather turn gusty-cold, escape to fine eateries and shops close by.
Learn about fish, drool over classy sailboats and ogle interesting sculptures along Snohomish County’s walker-friendly waterfront. Park at Brackett’s Landing Park or anywhere downtown near the water and head left of the ferry terminal.
Waterfront walkways lead south to a fishing pier and Marina Beach Park beyond. If exploring the beaches north or south of town, beware of rising tides, leaving plenty of time for a safe return.
North Creek Trail: This is really two short hikes in one. Walk the floating boardwalk through wetlands at North Creek Park (off 183rd Street SE, a half-mile west of Highway 527). Watch for perching birds and waterfowl. Even a muskrat is not unheard of, though the odds of seeing one are a bit skimpy.
Head for downtown Mill Creek to find the North Creek Trail west of Mill Creek Boulevard (park off the boulevard just north of 164th Street SE). The scenic paved path meanders between a forest reserve and the city center.
One can walk 2½ miles north to the transit station at McCollum Park, another possible starting point (south of 128th Street SE, just east of I-5).
Boulder River: A classic hike in low-elevation old-growth forest, Boulder River has been a three-season favorite for many since long before the area was designated as a wilderness area in 1984. During mild weather, the trail may be snow-free with waterfalls a-booming.
If there’s much snow or ice, it may be best saved for another time, since there are some steep drop-offs along the trail. From Highway 530 at milepost 41, follow French Creek Road 3.7 miles to the trail head. The best view is at Feature Show Falls, 1.3 miles up the trail.
Iron Goat Trail: If it’s not too snowy, try this hike off U.S. 2 near milepost 58) for an excellent outing. Completed just a year ago, the wide path makes for easy going, as it passes some large old snow sheds built to protect the Great Northern Railroad from avalanches following a deadly disaster at Wellington in 1910.
If there is snow on the ground, just haul out the snowshoes.
Outstanding historical displays retell the area’s history. A 3-mile walk leads past tunnels and bridges to the Martin Creek trailhead. A new 1-mile link to Windy Point (steep) offers a 7-mile loop via Martin Creek. Go to www.irongoat.org for an excellent trail map.
Columnist Sharon Wootton can be reached at 360-468-3964 or www.songandword.com.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
