Information
Landmark: Howarth ParkCity: Everett
Country: USA Washington
Continent: North America
Howarth Park, Everett, USA Washington, North America
Overview
At 630 Summerfield Road in Santa Rosa, California, Howarth Park spans 138 acres and has earned the nickname “jewel” of the city for its mix of activities, shimmering lake views, family-friendly layout, and trails that link to larger neighbors like Spring Lake Regional Park and Annadel State Park, likewise locals and visitors gather here across generations, finding everything from quiet trails shaded by heritage trees to the dazzling clatter of busy amusement rides, in a sense First, furthermore founded in 1958, Howarth Park takes its name from Leonard Howarth, a former city council member and civic leader who championed public green spaces and places for kids to play.Not surprisingly, On Santa Rosa’s east side, the park rests in a spot where quiet streets give way to the rolling oak-covered foothills, not only that over the years, the park has grown to offer playgrounds, winding trails, boating, picnic spots, and seasonal amusements, yet it still holds onto a quiet, leafy charm that feels miles away from the city.Not surprisingly, Step two’s simple-mix up short and medium-length sentences, like pairing a quick note with one that lingers a moment, as a result lake Ralphine sits at the heart of the park, a 19-acre manmade lake where you can watch sunlight ripple across the water or spend the afternoon paddling.Around the lake, you can fish for trout stocked each season, or try for bass, catfish, and bluegill splashing near the reeds, also if you’re 16 or older, you’ll need a valid California fishing license-don’t forget to keep it handy by the tackle box, occasionally You can rent rowboats, kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, or slight sailboats from March through October, paying by the hour-perfect for drifting past the reeds on a warm afternoon, and boat Launch: You’re welcome to bring a miniature boat-electric or non-motorized-and slip it into the water for a modest launch fee.Lakeside Trails wind along the water in easy, shaded curves, drawing joggers and walkers alike; you’ll pass a few benches and might spot a heron standing still by the reeds, as well as the dock and viewing deck give sweeping views of the lake, and at sunset the water glows gold-perfect for capturing that photo.Three, equally important the Land of Imagination Playground invites kids into worlds of make-believe, with log forts, train cars, and wooden climbing frames that echo ancient West towns, sailing ships, and frontier forts, all set on ADA-friendly surfaces with transfer platforms and inclusive swings.Nearby, the “Redwood Valley Railway” - a pint-sized steam train - loops past the lake and playground, rumbling through a haunted tunnel and over compact bridges, in turn the classic carousel spins under dazzling lights, its thirty hand-painted horses trotting to cheerful music; rides cost about $2 and often accompany birthday parties or picnics.In spring and summer, children under ten can enjoy pony rides, pet a goat in the pen, or visit the seasonal petting zoo run by local vendors, in addition howarth Park connects to a trio of green spaces, linking its trails with Spring Lake and the wild, oak-studded hills of Annadel State Park.The trails stay in great shape and draw hikers, joggers, and mountain bikers alike, especially on crisp mornings when the gravel crunches underfoot, in addition eagle Scout Trail offers a moderate loop winding through shady woodlands and rolling hills.Believe it or not, aged Fisherman’s Trail hugs the north lakeshore, linking to Annadel Rincon Trail, which welcomes bikes and heads toward Spring Lake and other state park routes, while the Nature Trail is a quick, interpretive trek, with weathered plaques describing local plants, wildlife, and geology.Surfaces range from smooth pavement to crunching gravel and dusty dirt paths, equally important native oak, bay laurel, and towering redwoods cast cool shade over the trails, so they stay inviting even when the air shimmers with summer heat.Five, simultaneously the Sports and Activity Zones feature six tennis courts-four lit for night play with coin-operated lights-and plans are underway to turn two into dedicated pickleball courts.All courts run on a first-come basis, and weekday waits are usually short, as well as you’ll also find a regulation-size, lighted softball diamond used for leagues, practices, and permitted rentals, with bleachers, scoreboards, and dugouts just steps from the field.More than 35 picnic tables, many with built‑in BBQ pits, sit tucked among cool, shaded groves and stretches of green lawn, moreover group Sites offer reserved spaces for 25 to 100 people, with restrooms, water fountains, trash bins, and wheelchair access close by; permits are needed for events, especially if you’re bringing inflatables, loud music, or massive food setups.The Open Lawn is a wide, breezy field where folks toss frisbees, stretch out on blankets, practice yoga, or fly kites, and it often hosts movie nights, outdoor concerts, and seasonal festivals, in conjunction with the park protects a slice of California’s foothills, where ducks paddle across Lake Ralphine and herons stand still in the shallows.Toyon, coast live oak, and coyote brush thrive here, and each spring wildflowers burst into color, drawing bees, butterflies, and the click of camera shutters, in conjunction with now and then, you’ll find guided nature walks or birdwatching meetups taking area.The park offers free parking lots, with extra street parking on busy weekends, plus ADA-accessible restrooms and smooth paved paths through the playground and picnic areas, as well as you’ll find drinking fountains, a seasonal snack bar, and vending machines, and dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed.Bike racks, trash and recycling bins, and information kiosks wait at each trailhead, as well as howarth Park buzzes with community energy, from Kite Day and Earth Day Santa Rosa to family fun runs and youth summer camps that immerse kids in nature and outdoor play.On warm evenings, “Movies in the Park” light up the lawn, with food trucks serving sizzling tacos and vendors lining the walkways, while birthday parties get the carousel, train rides, and shaded picnic spots.Oddly enough, It’s a rare blend of nature preserve, recreation hub, amusement park, and hometown gathering region, in turn you might paddle across the lake, wander shaded forest paths, rally on the tennis court, share sandwiches under a picnic table, or spin on the carousel-each moment in the park captures Santa Rosa’s dedication to welcoming green spaces and life outdoors for all ages.It’s still one of Sonoma County’s favorites, a park that offers something for everyone-from shady picnic tables to winding trails through oak groves.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-10-05