Every year it seems for as long as I can remember property taxes have increased.

Did you know that doesn’t have to be the case?

In this article you’ll learn if you qualify to save hundreds if not thousands of dollars EVERY YEAR!!

For the rest of your life!

In Snohomish County, Washington, senior citizens and disabled persons have the opportunity to get a reduction on their property taxes. They could potentially not pay excess levies or Part 2 of the state school levy. And, depending on their income, they may not need to pay a portion of the regular levies.

This tax relief program has certain qualifications based on age or disability, ownership, occupancy, and income.

To qualify for a discount, by December 31 of the assessment year, you must be at least 61 years of age; unable to work because of a disability; or  a disabled veteran with a service-connected evaluation of at least 80% or receiving compensation from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs at the 100% rate for a service-connected disability.

You must own your home by December 31 of the assessment year and be an occupant of your home for more than six months in the same assessment year.

Additionally, your income must not exceed $75,000 starting in 2024.

If you think you are entitled to a reduction on your property taxes in Snohomish County, schedule a quick consultation with us and we will help you get this benefit.

Depending on the amount of your obligations, taxes in the county are due on April 30 for the first half of your tax and on October 31 for the second half.

There are many ways to pay your property taxes. You can pay it by phone at 833-440-3332.

Another payment option is by credit card using Snohomish County’s merchant services provider online. Debit and credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Discover) and electronic check (eCheck) transactions are securely processed for a fee.

You can also make arrangements through your bank to pay online or make an automatic payment through their bill payer service or you can arrange for an escrow account with your lender or mortgage company.

If you opt to pay by mail, you can send your check or money order to Snohomish County Treasurer’s address. Otherwise, you can go to the Treasurer’s Office to pay your taxes in person by cash, check, money order, debit or credit card (with convenience fee) at the counter in the Snohomish County Administration East building on the first floor.

The Snohomish County Treasurer’s Office sends out a property tax statement annually either by mail, or if you have signed up for electronic billing, by email. The statement includes property tax information and is mailed mid-February.

Your annual tax statement is one page with three parts:

1. The top portion of your statement is your copy and contains a breakdown of the current taxes due and how they’re calculated.
2. The second portion of your tax statement is the second half payment coupon and indicates what is due for the second half property taxes, due October 31.
3. The bottom portion of the tax statement is the first half payment coupon, which shows the first half, full year, and any delinquencies due as of April 30.

The county has an average effective property tax rate of 1.09%.

Property taxes in Washington State are primarily budget based. So, each individual taxing district, such as cities, county, schools, fire, library, ports, etc., decides how much money to levy or budget each year for their regular levies, voter approved levies or both.

Regular levies are limited to a 1% increase annually without going to a vote of the people. There are several different limits on how levies can increase.

With that said, take advantage of Snohomish County’s tax relief programs for you. Schedule an appointment with us and let us help you get this benefit.

About Snohomish County

Snohomish County, situated in the state of Washington, is the third-most populous county in the state, following King and Pierce counties¹https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snohomish_County,_Washington. As of the 2020 census, the county’s population stands at 827,957 residents. The county seat and largest city is Everett.

With a population density of 377 people per square mile (146 people/km2), Snohomish County is home to diverse communities and landscapes. The housing landscape comprises 321,523 units, averaging 146.4 units per square mile (56.5 units/km2).

The county’s strategic location and significant population make it a key region within Washington, contributing to the state’s economic and cultural vibrancy.

Places You Can Visit

Flowing Lake Park & Campground at Leckie’s Beach

Flowing Lake Regional Park, also recognized as Leckie’s Beach, is a highly sought-after destination offering a diverse range of recreational activities. The day-use area caters to visitors with a host of amenities, including a beach, boat launch, fishing dock, playground, picnic tables, picnic shelters, and an amphitheater. Whether for a day trip or an extended stay, the park features a campground with various cabins and campsites, complemented by a heated restroom equipped with showers.

Nature enthusiasts can explore a designated nature trail that winds through a portion of the campground, providing a tranquil setting for those seeking solitude amidst the natural surroundings. Flowing Lake Park & Campground at Leckie’s Beach stands as a versatile and well-equipped location, appealing to both day visitors and those looking for a more extended outdoor experience.

Kayak Point Regional County Park

Kayak Point Regional County Park, nestled along the scenic Port Susan, is a stunning saltwater beach park that captivates visitors with its diverse offerings. Spanning 3,300 feet of shoreline and surrounded by evergreen forests, the park provides an idyllic setting for a range of activities. Whether pier fishing, windsurfing, picnicking, hiking, camping, or boat launching, Kayak Point Park invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Puget Sound.

The day-use area boasts picnic shelters with ocean views, beachside firepits, a playground, miles of beachfront to explore, a 300-foot pier extending into Puget Sound, and restrooms. The pier is a popular spot for crabbing and fishing, with a water depth of 50 feet at high tide. Crab pots attract Dungeness and red rock crab, while fishing enthusiasts can catch flounder, sole, true cod, rockfish, and walleye pollock year-round. Migrating sea perch in spring and summer add to the diverse marine life. Shoreline casting may yield dolly varden or sea-run cutthroat, enhancing the appeal of Kayak Point Regional County Park as a versatile and captivating coastal destination.

Lake Roesiger Group Campground

Lake Roesiger Group Campground, situated on the southeast end of Lake Roesiger, offers a secluded and densely wooded setting, making it an ideal location for various group activities such as scout outings, church gatherings, educational trips, or family reunions. The campground, located across the road from Lake Roesiger County Park, features 10 walk-in campsites, accommodating a total of up to 50 people.

The campsite arrangement emphasizes a walk-in-only policy, requiring guests to park their cars in the designated parking lot and carry their belongings to the sites. While the hike to each campsite is relatively short, it should be noted that the terrain is steep, and some may find it strenuous. Exceptionally suited for group gatherings, Lake Roesiger Group Campground provides a tranquil and natural environment for shared outdoor experiences.

River Meadows Park

River Meadows Park is a vast and serene 150-acre expanse, situated along the banks of the Stillaguamish River. This expansive park provides a tranquil setting with large open meadows and lush forests, offering a myriad of opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and immersion in nature. Visitors to River Meadows Park can engage in a variety of activities, including fishing along the mile-long river bank, camping during the summer months, or renting a yurt for year-round enjoyment.

The park caters to a diverse range of interests, inviting guests to partake in picnicking, hiking, geocaching, bird watching, or enjoying a game of catch in the meadow. Additionally, River Meadows Park’s extensive meadows make it an ideal venue for hosting large-scale events, such as family reunions, scout jamborees, weddings, community celebrations, and more. With its scenic beauty and versatile amenities, River Meadows Park stands as a welcoming destination for individuals and groups seeking both peaceful retreats and communal gatherings in the embrace of nature.

Squire Creek Park & Campground

Squire Creek Park & Campground, located just outside the Town of Darrington, provides a tranquil camping experience surrounded by the beauty of an old-growth forest with moss-laden trees. This peaceful park serves as an excellent base for exploring the Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest, embarking on hikes to the base of Whitehorse Mountain, and participating in local events like the Bluegrass Festival in Darrington and the Summer Meltdown Festival.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Squire Creek Park offers convenient access to the Sauk River, a mere five minutes away at Backman Park. Amidst the scenic surroundings, two large picnic shelters are positioned near the crystal clear waters of Squire Creek, providing an ideal setting for gatherings and relaxation. Whether camping under the towering trees or venturing into the nearby national forest, Squire Creek Park & Campground offers a peaceful retreat and a gateway to outdoor adventures in the picturesque landscape of the Pacific Northwest.

Evergreen State Fairgrounds RV Park

The Evergreen State Fairgrounds RV Park is a convenient and cost-effective accommodation option located within the Evergreen State Fairgrounds. Boasting 96 RV sites available for reservation through the Snohomish County parks reservation system, the park serves as an economical alternative to traditional hotel or motel stays. Primarily designed for participants in sporting events and travelers along I-5 or SR-2, the RV sites can accommodate RVs up to 42 feet in length, providing water and electricity hookups.

While offering essential amenities such as showers and a dump station, it’s important to note that traditional campground features like campfire pits or picnic tables are not included. The Evergreen State Fairgrounds RV Park caters to the practical needs of RV travelers, providing a convenient and functional stop for those exploring the Snohomish County region.

Wenberg County Park

Wenberg County Park, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Goodwin, stands as an award-winning destination offering a picturesque setting for various outdoor activities. Encompassing 45 acres, the park provides a range of amenities, including a 70-site campground, three picnic shelters, an enclosed swim beach with a rinse shower, and 1,140 feet of freshwater shoreline. Boasting a two-lane concrete boat launch, Wenberg County Park is well-equipped for boating enthusiasts.

Visitors to the park can enjoy picnicking, sunbathing, and camping in a beautiful lakeside environment. The day-use area features a restroom that is closed and winterized from November to March. The park’s management was transferred to Snohomish County from the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission in 2009, ensuring continued access to state parks amid budget reductions.

Notably, Wenberg County Park received the Washington Recreation and Parks Association Spotlight Award for an Outdoor Space in 2021. This prestigious accolade recognizes the park’s excellence, achievements, and contributions to the field of parks and recreation. The park’s commitment to providing high-quality outdoor experiences is further exemplified by the 2018 renovation of the day-use area, enhancing ADA access to the swimming beach and swimming/fishing dock. Wenberg County Park stands as a celebrated destination that combines natural beauty with outstanding facilities, earning recognition for its contributions to the community.

Whitehorse Campground

Located just outside the Town of Darrington, Whitehorse Regional Park Campground becomes the ultimate “get-a-way” in Snohomish County, with close access (but no direct access) to the Whitehorse Trail, North Mountain bike trails, and other DNR and Forest Service lands.

Centennial Trail

The Centennial Trail is a highly popular multi-use trail catering to hikers, bikers, and equestrians, offering a well-maintained pathway for outdoor enthusiasts. Stretching 30.0 miles, the trail currently spans from the City of Snohomish to the Skagit County line. Its paved surface ensures accessibility for users of all levels, while an adjacent soft surface equestrian path accommodates horseback riders. Importantly, the trail prohibits motorized vehicles, fostering a serene and non-motorized environment for those seeking an active and scenic outdoor experience.

Interurban Trail

The Interurban Trail is a popular recreational route spanning 11.8 miles, catering to bike riders, walkers, joggers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This paved trail is the result of a collaborative effort between Snohomish County, the cities of Everett and Lynnwood, and Public Utility District No. 1 of Snohomish County. Managed by Snohomish County Parks, the trail extends from south of 112th St SE to north of Butternut Road, near the I-405 cross-over.

Offering a largely separated path from motorized traffic, the Interurban Trail also features designated bike routes on road shoulders in certain areas. Users can easily follow the Interurban logo signs along the route to navigate their journey. While the trail permits horse use on the Snohomish County segment, horses are not allowed on the sections maintained by the cities of Lynnwood and Everett. The asphalt surfacing and breaks between trail segments with crossing traffic make horse use less common. The Interurban Trail provides a scenic and well-maintained pathway for a variety of recreational activities in the Snohomish County region.

Whitehorse Regional Trail

The Whitehorse Regional Trail is a scenic pathway stretching over 27 miles, connecting the City of Arlington to the Town of Darrington along the former BNSF railroad route in the North Stillaguamish River Valley. This backcountry corridor follows the North Fork Stillaguamish River and SR 530, offering breathtaking views of forests, farmland, streams, rivers, and mountain landscapes. Designed exclusively for hiking, biking, and equestrian use, the trail prohibits motorized vehicles.

The trail begins at the junction with the Centennial Regional Trail in Arlington, providing outdoor enthusiasts with a picturesque journey through diverse natural surroundings. While two closures exist due to landslides and river washouts, the majority of the trail remains open to the public. Recent improvements include resurfacing with compacted gravel, enhancing the overall experience for trail users. The Whitehorse Regional Trail invites individuals to explore the beauty of the North Stillaguamish River Valley on a non-motorized adventure.

Lord Hill Regional Park

Lord Hill Regional Park offers a 1,463-acre upland nature preserve for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking enthusiasts. The expansive wilderness park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, providing a unique opportunity for exploration. Visitors may encounter beavers at work constructing dams, adding to the park’s natural charm.

With over six miles of designated trails, the park allows outdoor enthusiasts to delve into the evergreen forest, offering panoramic views of the Snohomish River valley and distant mountain ranges from elevated points like Devil’s Butte Lookout and the Pipeline Trail ridge. Popular among riders, the trailhead parking can accommodate up to 25 horse trailers and tow vehicles, making Lord Hill Regional Park an ideal destination for those seeking a nature-filled adventure in the Snohomish County region.

Miner’s Corner

Miner’s Corner is a 13-acre community park, recognized as the Department’s inaugural 100% universally accessible facility. The park is centered around a large and accessible playground, featuring a towering lookout tower, making it one of the world’s tallest ramp-accessible play structures. Designed for open-ended play, the playground caters to children of all ages and abilities. Additionally, Miner’s Corner boasts a stormwater-fed sand and water garden, creating sensory-rich experiences and opportunities for interaction with water and wildlife.

The park’s network of fully accessible paths ensures that all users can explore and enjoy its amenities. Meandering sidewalks along adjacent roads form a ½ mile perimeter loop, maximizing open space. Internal paths lead to diverse prairie and forested landscapes, emphasizing exploration and discovery. A spacious multipurpose lawn area accommodates various sports, field games, and events, encouraging informal play, team practice, and family outings.

Miner’s Corner features a sport court with a full-size high school basketball court, four square, and hopscotch. The adjacent sloping lawn, equipped with power sources, supports community events such as movies or farmers markets. The popular picnic shelter, available for reservation, adds to the park’s appeal for birthday parties and family gatherings.

Responding to public interest in “retained wild areas,” the park prioritizes native landscape preservation and restoration. All new plants are native species, and structures and parking are concentrated at the park’s core, leaving the majority of the space as open land. The low-impact development stormwater system utilizes native landscape areas to infiltrate runoff, eliminating the need for costly and high-maintenance detention facilities. Over time, areas with young trees will reforest, while others, including the power line corridor, will be periodically mowed to maintain a native prairie ecosystem.

Paradise Valley Conservation Area

Paradise Valley Conservation Area, spanning 793 acres south of SR-522 on Paradise Lake Rd, is a natural haven offering diverse landscapes, including lush forests, wetlands, and streams. With over 13 miles of designated multi-use trails, the park caters to hikers, bikers, and equestrian enthusiasts (motor vehicles are prohibited). Home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, cougar, and deer, the park plays a crucial role in safeguarding the headwaters of Bear Creek, a significant salmon-rearing stream.

The conservation area features approximately 7 miles of equestrian trails, 10 miles of mountain bike trails, and welcomes hikers on all trails. While most trails support multiple uses, some are specifically designated for foot traffic only. Visitors can explore the wooded terrain, enjoying the serene environment and encountering large wetland areas throughout the park. Leashed dogs are welcome, and visitors are expected to adhere to leash and scoop laws. Paradise Valley Conservation Area provides a peaceful and diverse setting for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation.

Willis D. Tucker Community Park

Willis Tucker Community Park, situated on an 84-acre gently-sloped, forested site near Silver Firs and Snohomish Cascade, three miles east of Mill Creek, is a vibrant recreational space. Named in honor of Snohomish County’s inaugural County Executive, the park houses the administration offices for the Park Division. Offering a range of amenities, the park includes a splash pad, an off-leash dog area, and an amphitheater that hosts summer music events. Additionally, an activity center provides an indoor venue for various events, making Willis Tucker Community Park a hub for outdoor activities and community gatherings.

Heybrook Ridge Trail

Heybrook Ridge Trail, situated just outside the Town of Index, is a 3.3-mile roundtrip trail developed through collaboration between Snohomish County Parks and Friends of Heybrook Ridge, with construction executed by WTA volunteers. This moderately steep hike traverses a moss-covered forest and rocky terrain, culminating in a breathtaking viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of nearby peaks. The trail provides outdoor enthusiasts with a rewarding and picturesque hiking experience.

Lime Kiln Trailhead

The Lime Kiln Trailhead marks the starting point of the Lime Kiln Trail, the southern segment of the Robe Canyon Trail. Following the path of a former railroad bridge that spanned the river, this trail begins on level ground before descending approximately 600 feet, running alongside the river and concluding at the site where the bridge once connected both sides of the canyon. The heavily forested trail, adorned with signs, mile markers, and historical artifacts, offers a scenic journey through a narrow canyon, maintaining cooler temperatures. Hikers may encounter remnants of an 80-year-old lime kiln, with a well-preserved lime kiln standing as a notable landmark visible from the trail. Visitors are encouraged to leave these historic remnants intact for the enjoyment of future trail enthusiasts.

Meadowdale Beach Park

Meadowdale Beach Park, spanning 108 acres, invites visitors to park at the top and embark on a scenic 1.25-mile nature trail leading to the beach. As you stroll through the park’s corridor, the soothing sounds of a tumbling stream, winding through the old forest’s giant trees, accompany your journey. This stream, housing diverse aquatic life and serving as a habitat for freshwater fish and migrating salmon, forms a small marine estuary as it flows into Puget Sound. Enjoy a forest hike with opportunities to observe various bird species in their natural habitat. On the beaches, take in breathtaking views of the distant Olympic Mountains. Designated as a “hike-in” park by the public upon its establishment, Meadowdale Beach Park also provides access via a lower ADA parking lot with code access.

North Creek Park and Water Retention Facility

North Creek Park and Water Retention Facility, situated in an urban setting, boast an expansive wetland that serves dual purposes of flood control and providing a sensitive wildlife habitat with a diverse plant community. The park features a network of boardwalks and trails, creating an ideal environment for bird watching and allowing visitors to appreciate the richness of the ecosystem.

Southwest County Olympic View Park

Southwest County Olympic View Park is a sprawling 120-acre open space park nestled within the City of Edmonds in southwestern Snohomish County. The park showcases forested ravines and Perrinville Creek, which gracefully winds through the eastern portion, ultimately reaching Brown’s Bay on Puget Sound. With Olympic View Drive weaving through the site, visitors can explore two nature trails—one on the north side and a smaller counterpart on the south side, providing serene pathways for walking and nature appreciation. Note that off-road vehicles and bicycles are not permitted on the trails.

Portage Creek Wildlife Area

Portage Creek Wildlife Area is a 157-acre haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting a diverse array of wetland plants and animals. Wander along the serene stream and meander through open meadow paths while relishing glimpses of herons, raptors, and various waterfowl. The sanctuary offers a network of trails that crisscross expansive fields, providing a delightful opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Keep an eye out for deer, hawks, beavers, raccoons, minks, amphibians, and other small mammals, creating a rich tapestry of wildlife viewing experiences.

Spencer Island

Situated in the Snohomish River Estuary, Spencer Island stands as a prime location for observing waterfowl and shorebirds. Boasting diverse wildlife, including deer, coyotes, river otters, and various small mammals and amphibians, the island offers nature enthusiasts an immersive experience. Co-owned by Snohomish County and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), Spencer Island features a dike top trail system that provides scenic vistas of wetlands, sloughs, and mountains. The island’s south half belongs to Snohomish County, while WDFW oversees the north half, with the property line located approximately 1,400 feet north of the bridge.

Backman Park

Situated 1.5 miles south of the Town of Darrington, Backman Park is a serene 2.25-acre destination offering a quiet escape for fishing and picnicking. Nestled on Clear Creek Road, this park provides convenient access to the Sauk River, making it an ideal spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The park features a small parking area and a non-motorized boat launch, catering to activities such as rafting and kayaking. For those seeking a peaceful retreat off the beaten path, Backman Park provides a tranquil environment just a short drive from Squire Creek Campground.

Bob Heirman Wildlife Park at Thomas’ Eddy

Nestled in a unique and picturesque setting, the Bob Heirman Wildlife Park at Thomas’ Eddy provides an exceptional environment for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Named in honor of Bob Heirman, who played a crucial role, alongside the Tulalip Tribes, in preventing gravel mining and development in the area, the park is a haven for wildlife viewing, leisurely walks, picnics, and fishing. This natural oasis invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonders of the surrounding nature, celebrating the preservation efforts that have made this serene space possible.

Cavalero Hill Park

Cavalero Hill Park stands as a cherished community destination, offering an array of amenities for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts a sprawling three-acre off-leash dog area (OLDA) along with a dedicated space for smaller dogs. Sports enthusiasts can engage in friendly games at the sport court featuring basketball and foursquare. A well-loved 18,000 sq. ft. skatepark provides thrills for skateboarders. With picnic facilities, open play areas, and scenic walking trails, this park provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities. Surrounded by wetlands and natural areas, Cavalero Hill Park invites visitors to appreciate both active and leisurely pursuits in a beautiful, natural setting.

Darrington Archery Range

Nestled in a 155-acre wooded expanse off the Mountain Loop Highway south of Darrington, the Darrington Archery Range offers a captivating setting for archery enthusiasts. Acquired by Snohomish County in 1999, the range features five distinct courses, including a wheelchair-accessible range, providing a diverse archery experience. Operated through an Interlocal agreement with the Town of Darrington, the day-to-day management is entrusted to the Darrington Archers Association. Renowned as the home turf for the Darrington Archers Club, the range has become a premier destination for outdoor archery competitions, hosting national championships every three years. The public is warmly invited to witness the excitement of the National Field Archery Association’s championship tournament held at this scenic archery haven.

Esperance Park

Nestled within a 9.6-acre expanse, Esperance Park stands as a vibrant community hub offering an array of recreational amenities. The park boasts athletic fields, featuring a little league baseball diamond and two practice areas catering to field sports enthusiasts. An inviting sport court and an off-leash dog area add to the park’s appeal for active visitors. The playground, outdoor art installations, and the exhilarating zipline provide diverse opportunities for play and exploration. Additionally, a second-growth forest with primitive trails in the northwest corner offers a serene escape into nature within this lively suburban park.

Gissberg Twin Lakes

Gissberg Twin Lakes is a picturesque destination offering two sandy beaches for sunbathing and picnics. The lakes provide opportunities for boating, paddling, and various water activities, with fishing being a popular pastime in the natural spring-fed waters. The northern lake is designated for juvenile fishing, while the southern lake is open to anglers with a valid fishing license. Regular stocking by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife enhances the fishing experience, with rainbow trout added in mid-March, late April, early May, and late May. Local fishing clubs also contribute to the north pond’s stock, providing opportunities to catch bluegill and channel catfish.

Jordan Bridge

Located approximately six miles north of Granite Falls, this small park’s main feature is a suspension bridge across the South Fork of the Stillaguamish River.

Lake Goodwin Community Park

Lake Goodwin Community Park, situated on the northern shore of Lake Goodwin along Lakewood Road, is a beloved 14-acre destination in Snohomish County. Previously a resort and tavern, the park was acquired by the county in 1996 and opened to the public in 2006. Popular among the local community, the park features a beach, dock, playground, restrooms, and a reservable picnic shelter, offering families a delightful setting for recreation and gatherings.

Lake Roesiger Park

Lake Roesiger Park, a serene day-use destination, offers beach access to the tranquil waters of Lake Roesiger. Visitors can delight in the picturesque setting with numerous picnic tables along the lake shore and a spacious grass field near the park entrance. Exploring the wooded area in the north section of the park is made possible by hiking trails. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy shoreline fishing at the park, adhering to all state fishing regulations, while boat launching is not allowed on the premises.

Lake Stickney Community Park

Nestled over 24.5 acres, Lake Stickney Community Park stands as a natural sanctuary, preserving critical habitat at the northern headwaters of Swamp Creek. The park encompasses a rich tapestry of diverse environments, including forests, wetlands, streams, and open-water spaces that provide essential habitats for fish and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy various amenities such as a playground, picnic tables, walking trails, parking facilities, and a convenient portable restroom. Additionally, the park features a fully-fenced off-leash dog area, adding to the recreational appeal for both nature enthusiasts and their canine companions.

Logan Park

Situated at the intersection of Logan Road and Locust Way, just north of the City of Brier in Alderwood, Logan Park spans five acres, offering a range of recreational amenities. The park features a ballfield, a basketball court, and an innovative landscaped playground that was finalized in 2018. Surrounding the park is a paved walking/jogging path, complemented by wooded trails for those seeking a nature-filled escape. A notable feature is the accessible portable restroom located conveniently in the parking lot near the playground, enhancing the overall accessibility and convenience for park visitors.

Machias Trailhead

The Machias Trailhead serves as a charming rest stop for trail enthusiasts, situated in the town of Machias. This facility replicates a railroad depot constructed in the late 1890s, harking back to an era when it served as a vital stop along a historic rail line. Today, the site stands as part of the Centennial Trail, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s transportation history and providing a welcoming place for trail users to pause and enjoy the surroundings.

Martha Lake Airport Park

Martha Lake Airport Park, spanning 28.76 acres, is situated just north of Martha Lake and east of I-5. This diverse park offers an array of amenities, including a picnic shelter, youth softball field, soccer field, skate park, off-leash dog area (OLDA), outdoor art exhibits, and convenient restroom facilities. With its varied recreational features, Martha Lake Airport Park provides a welcoming space for community members to engage in sports, leisure activities, and enjoy the outdoors.

Martha Lake

Martha Lake, a beloved 6-acre park, provides a serene natural oasis in the midst of a rapidly developing urban landscape. Visitors can enjoy the park’s scenic features, including a fishing dock, boardwalks traversing wetlands, and three reservable picnic shelters. A well-appointed playground near the parking area adds to the family-friendly atmosphere. While reveling in the outdoors, guests can explore the diverse ecosystems within the park. Please note that the permanent restroom is winterized and closed from November to March.

Paine Field Community Park

Paine Field Community Park, managed by Snohomish County Parks, offers a variety of recreational amenities for diverse interests. The park features a picnic shelter, playground, and a graded soccer field. Additionally, it hosts baseball/softball fields that are available for use by third-party groups. The park’s facilities, including the restroom, are well-maintained and accessible to the public seasonally, with the restroom being winterized and closed from November to March. Notably, the park is home to High Trek Adventures, providing a thrilling experience with the PNW’s largest ropes course, ziplines, mini-golf, tactical laser tag, and axe throwing—making it an exciting destination for families, school groups, and corporate outings.

Picnic Point Park

Picnic Point Park, situated along the picturesque Puget Sound shoreline, provides a serene and scenic environment for visitors. Ideal for picnicking and beach activities, the park features tables and charcoal cookers, offering a delightful setting for outdoor meals. The park’s strategic location allows for excellent views of Whidbey Island and the distant Olympic Mountain range, making it a popular spot for sunset viewing. A large pedestrian overpass facilitates easy access to the beach, picnic areas, and restrooms, although visitors with physical challenges may require assistance. This park offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful vistas for those seeking a leisurely day by the water.

Rhody Ridge Arboretum

Rhody Ridge Arboretum is a distinctive botanical park spanning 11 acres, generously deeded to Snohomish County by Fir and Merlin Butler. This unique destination is designed to captivate visitors with an array of blooming beauty. Rhody Ridge showcases approximately 300 rhododendrons, including some of the largest mature species and hybrid varieties in the Seattle area. The developed 5-acre section of the garden features a diverse landscape with evergreen and deciduous plants and trees such as Stewartia, Carolina silverbells, maples, pines, birches, magnolias, dogwoods, witch hazels, osmanthus, viburnums, mountain laurels, redbuds, katsuras, yews, and more. An additional 6 acres remain undeveloped, offering a nature trail adorned with salal, Oregon grape, ferns, and native blackberries, providing a serene space for exploration and connection with nature.

Twin Rivers Park

Twin Rivers Park is a expansive park situated at the confluence of the North and South Forks of the Stillaguamish Rivers. Boasting ample space, the park features dedicated soccer and little league baseball fields for both practice and competition. The extensive open fields offer opportunities for leisurely walks, jogging, or exercising pets. Notably, Twin Rivers Park is renowned for hosting one of the region’s premier disc golf courses, providing enthusiasts with an engaging and picturesque setting. Additionally, the park collaborates with a local farmer to maintain the grass athletic fields through regular haying and mowing, ensuring a well-kept recreational environment.

Willis Tucker Activity Center

The Willis Tucker Activity Center, conveniently located next to the Parks Administration offices, provides versatile event spaces for various occasions. The Vista and Gary Weikel rooms offer a distinctive setting with panoramic views of the park, suitable for weddings, receptions, private parties, community meetings, workshops, and seminars. These environmentally friendly rooms can accommodate gatherings ranging from 10 to 125 people. Guests can enjoy ample free parking and access to the amenities of the first-rate park just outside the door. The flexibility extends to catering choices, allowing event organizers to select their preferred caterer. For pre-approved functions with permits, alcohol service is also permitted, adding an extra dimension to event possibilities.