With Pops Skateshop opening in Everett last year, not to mention the pandemic spurring more independent activities, it seems more locals than ever are getting into skateboarding.

Those new to skating may not realize Everett is home to two skateparks; including the oldest skatepark in Snohomish County. I’ve been skating since 1996 and have visited countless skateparks around the country. Both of Everett’s skateparks are decent and hold their own. They each have obstacles that are good for beginners and experienced skaters* alike.

WIGGUMS: North Everett

I called up my old skateboard pal Taylor Clark, AKA: skateboarding’s favorite comedian, to join me for a session at each of Everett’s skateparks. Our first stop was Everett’s newer skatepark located at Wiggums Hollow Park. Built in 2008, Wiggums is located in the Delta neighborhood in NE Everett.

This is a fun park with a usually mellow atmosphere (though once in a while the neighborhood kids do turn it into their personal playground). Compared to South Everett’s skatepark, Wiggums is much more “street” oriented. With rails, ledges, and bank ramps. Being Everett’s newer skatepark, the ground is noticeably smoother here. 

There’s also a huge sculpture of a metal skateboard that adds a unique visual element to the park. Technically you can skate the giant skateboard, but it’s a pretty difficult obstacle. 

Above: Taylor Clark nosebonks, backside ollies, switch 5-0 fakie, and backside noseblunts his way through the park // Garret Hunt

Beginners will likely do well with getting comfortable going up and down the bank ramps. My personal philosophy is if you can’t comfortably cruise around, you’re not ready to start trying tricks. You have to be able to walk before you can run, and cruise before you can kickflip. 

WALTER: South Everett

Next stop was Walter E. Hall Park in South Everett just off Casino Road (related: Who Was Walter E. Hall?). Snohomish County's oldest skatepark and one of the first skateparks I ever went to as a kid. It probably opened around 1998/’99 would be my guess. This is actually where I first met Taylor and many local skaters as it served as a major hub for the local skate scene.

This park is more “tranny” (transition) oriented with a lot of quarter pipes incorporated throughout, including a bowl. Some quarter pipes are just concrete on top. Some have metal coping. Some are a little uneven and have random lumps. Cement skateparks were not common in our region in the late 90s, and the quality of the construction reflects that.

Despite its quirks, it is a fun park and does include some more “street” style elements. A pyramid sits in the middle of the park and there are some ledges. There are some small quarter pipes, around 3’ tall that would be ideal for learning to drop in.

Above: Taylor Clark wallies over and takes a backside 5-0 down while warming up for a benihana staring contest // Garret Hunt

While the park is never nearly as busy as it was “back in the day,” it is still well-loved. There’s a dedicated group of locals who skate there as much as possible.

That’s what’s special about skateparks- for many youths, they become a home away from home. A place you feel accepted and free to express yourself while forming lasting friendships. In the 24+ years I’ve been skateboarding, skateboarding has taught me a lot. And a lot of it ties directly to the skateparks I hung out at and the friendships I made there. 

Speaking of friendships, thanks to Taylor Clark for letting me point my camera at him all these years. Catch Taylor’s comedy album + his latest tour dates over on his website: TaylorClarkComedy.com

See you at the skatepark!

Pro tip: If you are new to skateboarding and planning to go to the skatepark, my number one tip is LOOK UP! It’s a classic scenario that new skaters (understandably) will be overly focused on their feet. If you’re going to skate at a park around others though, you need to be mindful of those around you.

Pay attention to more experienced skaters and the lines that they’re doing. Many people fear they won't be accepted as a newbie at a skatepark, but if you’re respectful and watch where you’re going, you’ll likely make more friends than foes. 

Wiggums Hollow Park (North Everett)
2808 10th St. 
Everett, WA 98201

Walter E. Hall Park (South Everett)
1226 W Casino Road 
Everett, WA 98204

*I know nothing about scooters or biking, but I do know some people like to do these activities at skateparks, so glean what you will from this story. I’m just going to share from a skater's perspective because that’s all I know.  

Once upon a time Garret lived, ate, and breathed skateboarding. He was a professional skateboard videographer for many companies, including a staff position with Black Label Skateboards. These days, he’s the co-founder + CEO of Live in Everett. He still loves skating for fun.