Spencer Island
4th St SE
Everett, WA 98205
Park hours are 7:00 a.m. til dusk
Photos of birds found on Spencer Island by local photographer
* Notice* Access to Spencer Island has been restored via 4th St. but the trail on the south side of Smith Island (an alternate way to get to the island) continues to be closed due to construction.
Park Features
- Picnic Tables
- Interpretive Signs
- Interpretive Boardwalk
- Slough Access
- Saltwater Wetland
- Trails
- Portable Restrooms
Spencer Island is one of the best places in the Snohomish River Estuary to view waterfowl and shorebirds. Deer, coyote, river otter, and a host of small mammals and amphibians also inhabit the large island. The island has a dike top trail system, which provides scenic views of the wetlands, sloughs and mountains.
The island is co-owned by Snohomish County and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Snohomish County owns the south half of the island, while WDFW owns the north half. The property line is approximately 1,400 feet north of the bridge.
Call (360) 568-2482 for information on seasonal use restrictions and interpretive programs.
Note: Dogs are not permitted on the county-owned portion of the island.
Island Access
Failure of dikes on Spencer Island over the last several years have resulted in a loss of the large loop trail which was previously available for public use. Walking trails are still available, but several are "out and back" only. A smaller loop trail is available at the south end of the island.
Park History
Spencer Island lies in the heart of the Snohomish River Estuary, an ecosystem formed by mixing a freshwater system (the Snohomish River) and a saltwater system (Port Gardner Bay).
A dike was built out of earth and wood around the island in the early 1930’s for flood control and the island was converted to agricultural use. Most recently, James Scott Rhodes farmed the island, raising over 400 head of cattle.
A barn previously stood near the park entrance and served many generations of farmers. Legend has it that Tom Mormon, a farmer, rolled the barn on log skids across the island to its previous location. The barn fell down during a wind storm in 2006.
Driving Directions
From Everett, go north on SR529 (Broadway) over the Snohomish River; turn right onto 28th Pl NE. Follow signs to Langus Riverfront Park; continue past the park to a parking lot past the left curve in the road (under I-5). Follow the walking trail to Spencer Island.
Alternatively, continue along road to parking area near the Everett Waste Facility. Follow road between lagoons to Spencer Island.
No permit is required to park.
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