The best walks and hikes around Lake Stickney

There are nearly 30 hiking routes around Lake Stickney. Most of these, about 26, are considered easy, while a few offer a moderate challenge. There are no difficult trails listed in this immediate area.

The terrain around Lake Stickney varies. You'll find tranquil park settings with paved or well-maintained paths, such as the Silver Lake loop. Other routes, like the Big Gulch Trail, lead through lush forested gulches. While many trails are gentle, some more remote areas can be rugged, overgrown, and involve bushwhacking or navigating bogs, offering a more adventurous experience.

Yes, Lake Stickney Park itself is very family-friendly, offering amenities like a playground, picnic tables, and restrooms. The calm waters are suitable for non-motorized boating. For easy walks, the Silver Lake loop is a great option, circling Silver Lake within a developed park setting. The Rhody Ridge Arboretum Park loop is another short, easy walk suitable for families.

Many trails in the Lake Stickney area are dog-friendly, especially those within parks and on designated paths. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them. Specific regulations can vary by park or trail, so it's always a good idea to check local signage.

Beyond Lake Stickney itself, you can explore several natural features. The Silver Lake and Lower Duck Pond are nearby lakes. The Thornton A. Sullivan Park offers beach access. For a different experience, the more remote Stickney Lake (below Stickney Ridge) is known for numerous waterfalls along its challenging approach. You might also spot diverse wildlife, including waterfowl, songbirds, otters, beavers, and deer.

Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular option is the Silver Lake loop, which circles Silver Lake. Another short loop can be found at Rhody Ridge Arboretum Park. These offer convenient ways to experience the scenery without retracing your steps.

The area is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for water activities on Lake Stickney. If you're considering the more rugged trails to the remote Stickney Lake, be aware that conditions can be challenging, with overgrown paths and bogs, which might be more manageable in drier seasons.

For Lake Stickney Park, there is convenient parking available. For information on public transport options to various trailheads in the broader Snohomish County area, it's best to consult local transit schedules. For specific details about the Lake Stickney area, you can visit the Snohomish County website: snohomishcountywa.gov.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied natural environments, from tranquil park settings to more secluded paths, and the accessibility of many trails. The opportunity to enjoy freshwater lakes and lush forests is frequently highlighted.

While most listed routes are easy, for a more challenging and adventurous experience, consider exploring the area around the more remote Stickney Lake located below Stickney Ridge. This involves navigating abandoned logging roads and overgrown trails, bushwhacking, and potentially some minor 'rock climbing' using vegetation. It offers solitude and views of numerous waterfalls, but requires significant preparation and experience.

Yes, the Interurban Trail is a notable option. It provides nearly four miles of paved surface, following the route of a historic trolley, making it ideal for walking, jogging, and biking.

For mountain biking enthusiasts, Japanese Gulch is a popular destination. It offers various trails through a lush green forest, catering to different skill levels.