Bothell, Washington
Bothell is a dynamic city located in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. Spanning two counties, it serves as a bridge between the tech-heavy Eastside and the growing communities of Snohomish County. Its geography is defined by the winding Sammamish River, lush evergreen landscapes, and a balance of historic charm and modern innovation. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Bothell, Washington, emerges as a vibrant community that perfectly balances the tranquility of suburban life with the convenience of city amenities. This charming city, located in King and Snohomish counties, offers residents and visitors alike a rich tapestry of experiences, from its lush, green landscapes to its bustling downtown area. Bothell is renowned for its excellent educational institutions, including the University of Washington Bothell, which attracts students from across the region with its highly regarded programs and picturesque campus. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its numerous parks and recreational areas, such as the Sammamish River Trail and Blyth Park, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Bothell also boasts a thriving wine and beer scene, with popular spots like the McMenamins Anderson School, a historic building transformed into a hotel, brewery, and entertainment complex, offering a unique blend of local history and contemporary culture. Additionally, the Country Village, although now closed, remains a fond memory in the community, symbolizing Bothell’s dedication to fostering a tight-knit, family-friendly environment. With its blend of natural beauty, educational excellence, and a thriving culinary and arts scene, Bothell, Washington, stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest.
States and Provinces
Bothell is located in the state of Washington, within the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is situated at the northern tip of Lake Washington, positioned between the major urban centers of Seattle and Everett.
Indigenous Lands
Historically, the land Bothell occupies is the ancestral territory of the Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Sammamish (tsah-pah-bish) tribe. They lived along the Sammamish River (formerly the Squak Slough), utilizing the waterways for transportation and salmon fishing long before European settlers arrived in the late 19th century.
Regions
Bothell sits within the Greater Seattle Area and is a key part of the Eastside, a collection of cities east of Lake Washington. It is also considered part of the Puget Sound Lowlands, a region characterized by its proximity to the Salish Sea and its temperate, maritime climate.
Physical Geographic Areas
- Sammamish River: Flowing directly through the heart of the city, this river connects Lake Sammamish to Lake Washington and is a focal point for recreation.
- North Lake Washington: Bothell touches the northernmost shores of the lake at Kenmore, influencing its local climate and drainage.
- Glacial Plateaus: The city is built on hilly terrain shaped by glacial retreat, resulting in significant elevation changes between the river valley and residential highlands like Norway Hill.
- Second-Growth Forests: The area is characterized by dense stands of Douglas fir, Western red cedar, and Bigleaf maple.
Counties
Bothell is unique for being a dual-county city. It is split between:
- King County (Southern portion)
- Snohomish County (Northern portion)
Metropolitan Areas
Bothell is a significant hub within the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue Metropolitan Statistical Area. It serves as a major employment center, particularly in the life sciences and technology sectors, housing a satellite campus for the University of Washington (UW Bothell) and Cascadia College.
Wards and Precincts
Bothell is governed by a Council-Manager system. The City Council consists of seven members elected at-large, rather than from specific wards. However, for election purposes, the city is divided into numerous precincts organized by the King and Snohomish County Elections departments.
Zip Codes and Postal Codes
Bothell’s primary zip codes include:
- 98011 – Downtown and the southern King County side.
- 98012 – Northern areas extending into Snohomish County.
- 98021 – Western residential areas and the Canyon Park business district.
Neighborhoods and Districts
Bothell WA features a mix of revitalized urban spaces and quiet residential hills:
- Downtown Bothell – Recently revitalized with a focus on “Main Street” charm, featuring the McMenamins Anderson School.
- Canyon Park – A major business and technology district home to numerous biotech and aerospace companies.
- Norway Hill – A high-elevation residential area known for its views and wooded lots.
- Thrasher’s Corner – A bustling commercial and retail hub in the Snohomish County portion of the city.
Protected Areas
Bothell is home to several significant environmental preserves:
- North Creek Wetland Preservation Area – A 127-acre restored wetland located on the UW Bothell campus.
- Blyth Park – A large riverside park that serves as a gateway to the Burke-Gilman Trail.
- Wallace Swamp Creek Park – Offers 25 acres of trails and wildlife habitat for blue herons and owls.
Cities, Towns, and Villages Nearby
- Kenmore (west)
- Woodinville (east)
- Kirkland (south)
- Mill Creek (north)
Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
While not a traditional SEZ, Bothell is a designated Innovation Partnership Zone (IPZ):
- Bothell Biomedical Manufacturing IPZ – A state-designated zone that fosters collaboration between global biomedical companies and research institutions.
