When I originally wrote about Langus Riverfront Park, several miles of trails in the northern section had just been removed to make way for a new salmon habitat. It's been great to see constant improvements everywhere else since then. First came new pavement for the southern loop, which wasn't just a smooth new surface; with proper drainage, it no longer floods during heavy rain.

Next was a new parking area near the entrance to the park. It was first only used for construction of a new pump station for the wastewater treatment plant, and it was a little baffling to see the gate leading to it remain locked for two more years even though an educational sign about the estuary restoration had gone up.

It's finally open to the public! Sort of. While anyone can enjoy this section of the park, much of it has been opened up for hunting, and parking at the new lot requires a Vehicle Access Pass or a Discover Pass. I recommend getting a Discover Pass every year with your vehicle registration so you're always ready for an adventure. It costs as much for a full year as three day passes, so the annual pass is a great deal.

Access to this parking area means more options when you're walking, running, or biking around the park. I used to walk around the gate so I could cross the bridge leading to the park entrance and make a big loop instead of going back to my car the way I came. That wasn't an option if it had rained, though. 

The walking path from there along the retention ponds and the Spencer Island access road were also recently paved, making a total of five miles of smooth, hard surfaces. If you prefer a more natural path, there are still several options spread over another three miles. The grass and gravel path between the fishing pier and the marina is popular with dog walkers. Cross the bridge to Spencer Island and head south for the loop trail, where dogs aren't allowed and you might get wet if the tall grass hasn't been cut back in a while. Head north instead to explore the hunting trail, best enjoyed in the weeks after hunting season ends when the trail isn't yet overtaken with thorny vines.

A few warnings are in order. First, keep in mind that expanded hunting access means more early morning gunshots during hunting season: wear bright safety gear and be ready for the noise. Second, the restrooms near the boat launch are closed during the pandemic, so the only place for a bathroom break with any privacy is the portapotty near the Spencer Island bridge. Finally, be ready for mosquito season, either with repellant or by avoiding the park entirely when the swarms are largest for a few weeks each year.

The new pavement and expanded access haven't changed the basic layout of the park, but have greatly expanded the recreational opportunities. I used to know it was time to buy a new pair of shoes when the gravel on the road to Spencer Island hurt my feet, but now I'm looking forward to some dry weather so I can try skating there instead. 

Langus Riverfront Park
400 Smith Island Rd
Everett, WA 98201

Hours
Seven days a week
6 a.m. - dusk

Christopher Bragg works from home in Everett and loves walking, swimming, and cats. You can find him all over town, but only if you keep weird hours and avoid crowds like he does.