McCollum Park Forest Loop Trail

Description

I’ve gotta tell ya, the McCollum Park Forest Loop Trail is one of those hidden gems that keeps drawing me back whenever I’m in the area. This gorgeous 1.1-mile loop might seem modest in length, but trust me – it packs quite a punch when it comes to experiencing the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. What really gets me excited about this trail is how it manages to feel completely removed from urban life, despite being right in Everett’s backyard.

The trail weaves through a dense canopy of towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars, some of which must be hundreds of years old! Y’know, every time I walk here, I notice something different – maybe it’s the way sunlight filters through the leaves or a new type of mushroom popping up along the path. The well-maintained dirt trail is wide enough that you won’t feel cramped, and there’s just enough elevation change to get your heart pumping without being overwhelming.

Key Features

• Peaceful 1.1-mile loop trail suitable for all skill levels
• Well-maintained dirt paths with gentle elevation changes
• Rich diversity of native Pacific Northwest flora
• Year-round accessibility with covered areas during rain
• Multiple benches along the route for resting
• Educational signage about local ecology and wildlife
• Connected to a larger park complex with additional amenities
• Natural wildlife habitat where you might spot local birds and small animals
• Several creek crossings with charming wooden bridges
• Easy access to parking and facilities

Best Time to Visit

From my experience hitting this trail throughout the year, each season offers something special, but I’d say late spring through early fall is absolutely prime time. May and June are particularly magical – that’s when the forest floor comes alive with wildflowers and the weather is usually pretty cooperative. Summer mornings are perfect for beating both the heat and the crowds, while fall brings stunning colors to the forest.

But here’s a little insider tip – don’t completely write off winter visits! On those rare crisp, clear winter days, the trail takes on an entirely different character. The bare branches let in more light, and you might even spot some interesting mushrooms or moss formations that are usually hidden during other seasons.

How to Get There

Getting to McCollum Park Forest Loop Trail is pretty straightforward. If you’re coming from I-5, take the 128th Street exit and head east. The park entrance is clearly marked, and you’ll find plenty of parking near the trailhead. There’s usually enough spots available, but on sunny weekend afternoons it can get a bit busy – I learned that lesson the hard way!

The trail entrance is well-marked, and you’ll find an information board with a map right at the start. Ya can’t miss it! Public transit is also an option, with a bus stop just a short walk from the park entrance.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, let me share some hard-earned wisdom from my many visits to this trail. First off, even though it’s a relatively easy trail, wearing proper footwear is super important – the path can get pretty muddy after rain (and this is the Pacific Northwest, after all!). I once made the mistake of wearing my regular sneakers during a wet spell, and boy, was that an adventure!

Bring a water bottle and maybe a light snack. The trail isn’t super long, but you might want to take your time to enjoy the scenery. A camera is definitely worth carrying – I’m always spotting cool photo opportunities, especially when the light hits the forest just right.

Speaking of weather, don’t let a little drizzle stop you! The tree canopy provides decent coverage, and that’s when the forest feels most magical. Just pack a light rain jacket just in case.

If you’re into bird watching (like I’ve recently gotten into), early morning visits are your best bet. I’ve spotted all sorts of local birds, from chickadees to woodpeckers, especially around the creek areas.

During summer weekends, try to arrive before 10 AM to avoid the rush. And hey, if you’re bringing kids, there’s this cool game I made up with my niece – we count different types of trees or look for specific plants from the trail guide. Keeps them engaged and learning!

Oh, and one last thing – the trail connects to other parts of McCollum Park, so you might want to explore those too. I sometimes combine the forest loop with a visit to the park’s other attractions to make a full day of it. Just remember to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out, and you’re all set for a fantastic outdoor adventure!

Location

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