Is your pooch hounding you to find an exciting new walking spot? Try the Snohomish County Centennial Trail on for size! This 30-plus-mile paw-path follows the old railway route from the city of Snohomish to the edge of Skagit County. The trail is 10 feet wide and offers visitors a smooth, mostly flat path that anyone can enjoy no matter their capabilities.
The path begins in the city of Snohomish, passing lovely vintage houses and historic storefronts before transitioning to vibrant farmland and woodlands. The snow-covered Cascade Mountains frame this picturesque landscape to the east. Here, you will pass a charming red barn decorated with old pictures. This portion is typically the most popular, with lots of other walkers, bikers, skaters, and horseback riders (although they ride on the natural surface side-trail).
From there, you will pass over a creek and head towards the city of Bryant. After a couple of miles, you will come to the Pilchuck River, where you'll find a lovely stopping point with benches. Take this time to fill the collapsible bowl for Fido; you still have a ways to go! Past the river, the trail intersects some roads -- use caution when crossing, as there are signs that state motorized traffic doesn't always stop. From there, you will head towards Arlington, another beautiful old railroad town that has plenty of lovely old houses to enjoy from the trail.
Rest areas with benches, picnic tables, and bathrooms can be found every few miles. These are great for doggy duos to take a break to enjoy the scenery and all the lovely unfamiliar smells! You will need to bring waste bags for this adventure, but no need to worry about carrying a bag of poop around the whole time -- there are plenty of trash receptacles in the rest areas!
The trail can be busy during peak times -- if you want a quieter experience, try this trail on a weekday or early in the morning. Give this trail a shot; your pup will love the scenic escape from the usual walking routine!