Forest Park

A Woodland Retreat in the City

Located in Everett, Washington, Forest Park sprawls across 197 acres, making it the city's largest green space. What started as a modest 10-acre plot in 1894 has blossomed into a verdant sanctuary that locals treasure year-round - though it wasn't officially named Forest Park until 1913.

Located in North Everett, the park's layout reflects its natural geography: the main recreational facilities sit on a hilltop, while the wooded ravine of Pigeon Creek runs below, giving the grounds a noticeable contrast between open upland areas and the densely forested slopes dropping down to the creek. This blend of dense woodlands, open meadows, and recreational facilities caters to everyone from solo hikers to families looking for a weekend adventure.

From Zoo to Community Treasure

The park has quite the backstory. The zoo that operated here for much of the 20th century got its start in 1914 under parks director Oden Hall, who built the collection through trades and gifts from other zoos and traveling circuses. By 1958, the zookeeper position had been cut, and after three separate bond measures to fund facility upgrades all failed, the zoo was demolished in 1962 - leaving joggers to tread where elephants once roamed.

During the Depression era, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) left an indelible mark on the landscape. Those gorgeous rock walls you'll spot throughout? The extensive network of trails? The terraced hillsides? All gifts from this 1930s public works program. Floral Hall was part of the same construction push, along with the park's playgrounds and picnic shelters - a coordinated effort that effectively shaped the park's overall layout as it exists today.

Trails That Call to You

If you're looking to disconnect from the digital world, Forest Park's miles of wooded trails offer a wonderful escape. Whether you're up for a casual stroll or seeking a more challenging trek, there's a path with your name on it.

Nature enthusiasts can follow the self-guided nature tour to get acquainted with the local ecosystem. As you wander beneath the towering trees, keep your eyes peeled for squirrels darting between branches and, if you're lucky, deer quietly making their way through the underbrush.

Fair warning: some sections get pretty hilly, so wear appropriate shoes if you're planning to explore thoroughly. The inclines might leave you breathless, but the serene forest views make every step worthwhile.

Family Fun Central

The playground area is impressive enough that kids will likely beg to stay "just five more minutes." Modern equipment caters to children of all ages, with climbing structures, slides, and swings (including accessible options) that keep the fun inclusive. There are even interactive musical instruments for budding musicians to discover.

Come summer, the Rotary Centennial Water Playground is particularly popular. This splash pad features water sprayers and fountains that provide welcome relief on scorching days.

For year-round aquatic enjoyment, the Forest Park Swim Center offers indoor swimming regardless of the weather outside.

Get Active, Get Social

Athletic options abound with basketball courts, tennis courts (which double as pickleball courts for the trendy racket sport enthusiasts), and soccer fields spread around the grounds. The horseshoe pits come complete with covered areas, meant for friendly competitions even when the notorious Pacific Northwest drizzle makes an appearance.

A spacious grassy field invites impromptu games of frisbee, casual picnics, or simply lounging with a good book under the open sky.

Where Community Happens

At the heart of Forest Park stands the historic Floral Hall. Built as part of the WPA's 1930s construction effort and recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, this structure hosts community events and exhibitions throughout the year.

You'll come across numerous picnic areas scattered around the park, including covered shelters you can reserve for gatherings. Some spots come equipped with built-in grills - meant for flipping burgers while the kids play nearby.

When winter blankets Everett in snow, locals know exactly where to head: the hill near the playground transforms into the city's favorite sledding spot, filled with laughter and the occasional good-natured tumble.

Preserving the Green

The park continues to evolve through thoughtful stewardship. Recent conservation projects have focused on removing invasive species and planting native trees to ensure this urban forest thrives for generations to come.