There’s something deeply restorative about stepping into the quiet of the woods, with the crunch of gravel or pine needles as you walk along the path. For moms juggling busy schedules, noisy households, and never-ending to-do lists, a hike isn’t just exercise, it’s therapy. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, looking for a quiet place to pray, or just trying to tire out energetic kiddos, Snohomish County is packed with beautiful, accessible hikes for every type of day and season of life.
Below, we’ve rounded up a collection of local favorites—from peaceful lake strolls to kid-friendly forest loops and everything in between. These trails will lift your spirit; help clear your mind and remind you of the beauty that’s never far from home. So, lace up those boots (or your comfiest sneakers), pack some snacks, and don’t forget the water bottle—these trails are waiting for you.
1. Wallace Falls – Gold Bar
Distance: 5.6 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Wallace Falls is one of Snohomish County’s most beloved hiking spots—and it’s not hard to see why. The trail weaves through a lush old-growth forest alongside the Wallace River, with the sound of rushing water accompanying your every step. As you ascend, you’ll encounter a series of stunning waterfalls—nine in total!
This hike offers a beautiful place for a weekend family outing or solo escape. The Middle Falls viewpoint is a favorite stop for many. Try taking a break there with the sweeping views and the roar of cascading water surrounding you.
2. Lord Hill Regional Park – Snohomish
Miles of trails with loop options
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Lord Hill is one of those local treasures that feels like it was made just for you. With miles of well-maintained trails winding through moss-draped forests and rolling hills, this park offers something for everybody. Whether you’ve got 30 minutes or a couple of hours, you can choose your own adventure with various loop options.
This park is stroller-friendly on some trails, dog-friendly, and perfect for spotting birds, frogs, and the occasional deer. This is a favorite for moms looking for a place to take their kids, or to go alone on a peaceful walk.
3. Meadowdale Beach Trail – Edmonds/Lynnwood
Distance: 2.5 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This trail is a hidden gem that leads to one of the prettiest pocket beaches in the county. You’ll descend through a shaded ravine filled with ferns, streams, and towering trees until you reach the waters of the Puget Sound. The beach is a perfect spot for a picnic, and at low tide, kids can explore tide pools and show you their new treasures.
Heads-up: the uphill return can be a little bit of a workout, especially with young kids and packed bags, so plan accordingly.
4. Big Gulch Trail – Mukilteo
Distance: 2.5–3 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Tucked behind a quiet neighborhood and the Mukilteo Library, Big Gulch Trail feels like a well-kept secret. This trail takes you through a deeply wooded ravine filled with mossy trees, birds, and the occasional deer. It’s a peaceful place perfect for a reflective walk, an after-dinner stroll, or an impromptu nature lesson with curious little ones.
The trail is a series of switchbacks and bridges, with just enough elevation to make you feel like you’ve earned that post-hike coffee. It’s especially lovely in the golden hour light.
5. Heather Lake – Near Granite Falls
Distance: 4.6 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Looking for that picture-perfect alpine lake experience without driving hours into the mountains? Heather Lake is the one for you. The trail climbs steadily through thick forest, over roots and rocks, until it opens up to a serene mountain lake framed by jagged peaks and seasonal wildflowers.
It’s a bit more rugged than the others on this list, so good hiking boots and a little grit are recommended—but the views are spectacular and well worth the effort.
6. Centennial Trail – Snohomish to Arlington
Distance: Up to 30 miles
Difficulty: Choose your own adventure
Unlike typical forest trails, the Centennial Trail is a paved, multi-use path that runs from Snohomish to Arlington, with plenty of trailheads along the way. It’s perfect for family bike rides, stroller walks, or leisurely solo time. The wide, flat path makes it accessible and safe, even for little wobbly bikers or moms pushing double strollers.
With frequent benches, rest areas, and scenic views of farmland and forest, it’s a great way to stretch your legs and see the amazing community and nature that is always around you.
7. Spencer Island Trail – Everett
Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy
If you need some quiet, head to Spencer Island. This peaceful wetland near the Snohomish River is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with boardwalks and gravel paths that make for an easy, family-friendly outing. Watch for herons, ducks, eagles, and even otters if you’re lucky!
It’s a flat trail, so it’s great for all ages and mobility levels, though be prepared for some mud after it rains. Early mornings are especially beautiful here—mist rising from the marsh, birds calling, and a stillness that’s hard to find while going about the rush of daily life.
Tips Before You Go
Check trail conditions. Springtime snowmelt or recent rains can mean flooding or slippery trails.
Leave no trace. Pack out everything you pack in—even that half-eaten granola bar wrapper.
Bring layers. Weather in the Pacific Northwest can change quickly, especially at higher elevations.
Download or print your trail map. Not all areas have great cell service, and getting lost isn’t part of the plan!
Wear sturdy shoes. Depending on the level of difficulty or the weather, you may experience rocky, muddy, or steep trails.
Be flexible. Sometimes the best hikes are the ones where you turn around early, play in the creek, or just sit on a log and breathe.
Snohomish County offers so much more than scenic views—it offers space to breathe, to slow down, and to reconnect. Whether you’ve got toddlers in tow, teenagers biking beside you, or you’re sneaking in some solo time while someone else handles the kids, there’s a trail here waiting just for you.
So, take the time. Hit the trail. Listen to the birds, look at the water, and let the journey remind you that you are never walking alone.
