Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Snohomish County Bike Trails: Centennial Trail

Centennial Trail LogoThe Centennial Trail is 12-foot wide pave trail that runs 17 miles from Snohomish to Arlington. The trail is very popular for biking, jogging, walking, as well as horseback riding. There are picnic areas and restroom facilities along the path. Development of the trail began in 1989 during the state's centennial, hence the name, Centennial Trail.

The Centennial Trail is constructed on a railroad right-of-way that connects Seattle and Canada. The town of Machias has a replica of the railroad depot originally built in the late 1890s. The Machias Depot trailhead, just south of Lake Stevens, is a popular place to access the Centennial Trail.

Machias Trailhead

The Centennial trails runs through long stretches of forested areas. The newer part of the trail is north of Lake Stevens. The smooth asphalt is popular with roller-bladers. In addition, since the trail follows a rail line, all uphill and downhill sections are gentle slopes.

Centennial Trail

About 6 miles north of Machias is Lake Cassidy, which is a great place to stop for a rest and enjoy the lakeside scenery.

Lake Cassidy Boardwalk

Centennial Trail Info
For more info on the Centennial Trail, visit Snohomish County Regional Parks. For a trail map of the Centennial Trail, click here.

For other postings about bike trails, see King County Bike Trails: Sammamish River Trail.

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