Good Things Come in Small Packages: Forgotten Creek & Depot Park
It’s true what they say, good things come in small packages. Just visit Everett’s Depot Park or walk the Forgotten Creek trail for proof.
These simple but delightful destinations make for the perfect quick respite. There is plenty of nature to enjoy along the way. The location is close and parking is easy enough. And if you walk Forgotten Creek to Depot Park you can walk an easy loop full circle to keep your scenery nice and fresh.
On a recent fall day, I found myself near downtown with a little margin in my schedule. Leaves were in full fall mode, so I knew a walk through the woods would be enjoyable.
Fiery fall trees by the Pavilion // Garret Hunt
I parked at the Forgotten Creek trailhead, which is directly on the west side of the Providence Pavilion for Women and Children. As soon as I parked I was greeted by remarkably fiery leaves affirming my decision to visit.
A place to rest your buns // Garret Hunt
Before descending down the short switchback trail, you’ll find a sturdy bench at the trailhead. Made of recycled milk jugs, it’s a bun-worthy bench in its own right, overlooking the wooded ravine as sunlight glimmers in-between gently waving branches.
If your knees are up for a little descent, trekking down the dirt walkways mixed with wooden bridges crisscrossing the creek is worth the short 5-minute walk. You’ll find another bench at the bottom of the ravine where a boardwalk continues.
You can’t not walk to see where it goes // Garret Hunt
If you continue on the short path, eventually you’ll emerge onto an open field where a few urban campers are likely hiding off in a corner. What’s cool is just 100 yards beyond the field you'll come across Depot Park. Don’t feel bad if you’re never heard of it, the place is tiny.
Everett’s first train station // Garret Hunt
Hiding in plain sight next to Everett’s first train station, Depot Park offers three primary pleasures: benches, flowers, and views. Grab a seat next to the cute train car turned tool shed and enjoy gorgeous water views overlooking the Port of Everett. Arboretum-worthy flower beds surround you while visiting this hidden gem.
What a view! // Garret Hunt
Leave Depot Park and circle back up the hill to the Forgotten Creek trailhead. If you don’t linger at Depot Park too long, I would estimate this short loop to be about a mile long and comfortably walkable within about 20 minutes, making this short jaunt the perfect quick escape.
So next time the outdoors call your name and you think you’re too busy, think again because a quick respite may be all you need. After all, good things come in small packages.
Depot Park
2800 Bond St.
Everett, Wa 98201
Forgotten Creek Trailhead
900 Pacific Ave
Everett, WA 98201
Garret is the co-founder + CEO of Live in Everett. He’s also journeying toward wholeness at GarretHunt.com.