Looking for an opportunity to explore Washington on foot? Here are a few timely ideas:
Snohomish Walking Tours
(April 13, May 11, June 15)
Explore the charming riverside city of Snohomish on a 75- to 90-minute stroll with local historian Taylor Russell, who has stories galore about the town’s past and its personalities. Tours cost $20 (kids under 13 go free; no pets); note that the May and June events are on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Get more information and register in advance at SnohomishWalks.com.
National Park Week
(April 19-27, 2025)
In 2025, National Park Week is set April 19-27. It’ll be a bit early to head to Mount Rainier or the North Cascades, but you might take a walk across Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve on Whidbey Island or explore the tragic legacy of Whitman Mission National Historical Site near Walla Walla. Many sites are free to visit, but if admission is charged, it’ll be waived on Saturday, April 19.
Earth Day
(mid-April 2025)
Earth Day–Tuesday, April 22–is one of a dozen fee-free days to explore Washington’s state parks and public lands. (June 7, June 8, and June 19 are among the others this spring.) Many Washington cities and towns plan family-friendly outdoor activities on and around Earth Day. One example is the April 19 fun run/walk at Seattle’s Magnuson Park, where participants can also pot a tree seedling to take home (or leave for the park) and even donate gently used athletic shoes for reuse.
Jane’s Walks
(May 3-4, 2025)
Jane Jacobs was not a trained city planner, but she intuitively knew that walkable cities and towns help people live safer, healthier, more engaged lives. Each May, the Jane’s Walk festival features community-led walking conversations to help people discover unseen aspects of their surroundings and connect with neighbors. Save the dates and watch the Feet First blog for more information on Jane’s Walk events in and around Seattle and Kitsap County.
DIY Walk: Beacon Rock
This is more of a hike–with 600 feet of elevation gain in less than a mile–but it’s worth the effort. Take the historic trail to the top of Beacon Rock, the namesake monolith of a state park in Skamania County. With gentle switchbacks and handrails, it’s easier and safer than you might think, and the expansive Columbia River Gorge views make the trek a pleasure. The observation area at the top can be crowded, so plan to enjoy a riverside picnic after you descend.
Take a WAlk is compiled by Julie Fanselow, a (mostly) retired journalist and avid walker who lives in Seattle. Julie’s books include Traveling the Lewis and Clark Trail and Idaho Off the Beaten Path.