Bellingham, a charming city nestled in the upper reaches of Washington state, a mere 30 miles from the Canadian border, beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse landscape and readily accessible trails. Long before European settlement, this land was the ancestral home to the Lummi, Nooksack, Samish, and Semiahmoo peoples, a testament to the rich history woven into the very fabric of the region. Today, Bellingham and its surrounding areas offer a compelling blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all skill levels. The prominent peaks of Blanchard and Chuckanut Mountains serve as the focal point for many of the area’s most popular routes. Beyond the mountainous terrain, however, lies a network of picturesque trails that meander along the water’s edge, offering gentle inclines perfect for families with children or those seeking a more leisurely outdoor experience.
Before embarking on your hiking adventure, it’s important to note that all trails mentioned are pet-friendly, though leashes are required to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Many of these trails also require a Discover Pass, a permit that grants access to public recreation sites throughout Washington State. The Discover Pass can be conveniently purchased online, providing you with seamless access to the natural wonders that await.
Here’s a closer look at six of the best hikes near Bellingham, each offering a unique experience and showcasing the diverse beauty of the Pacific Northwest:
1. Oyster Dome
Oyster Dome reigns supreme as one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Bellingham area, and for good reason. This trail rewards hikers with unparalleled panoramic views that stretch across the Salish Sea and beyond. The ascent to the summit of Blanchard Mountain is a challenging 2.5-mile climb, gaining approximately 1,050 feet in elevation. However, the effort is undoubtedly worth it. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking vista encompassing Lummi Island, the San Juan Islands, Samish Bay, and the sprawling Skagit River Flats. On a clear day, the distant silhouettes of Vancouver Island and the majestic Olympic Mountains add to the grandeur of the scene.
The Oyster Dome viewpoint provides countless opportunities for stunning photographs, capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest landscape. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution near the edge, as the terrain features a sudden and dramatic drop-off. This hike may not be suitable for young children unless they are experienced and reliable hikers. The weather in Western Washington is known for its unpredictability, regardless of the season. Before heading out, it’s essential to check the forecast for Bellingham and prioritize days with clear skies for optimal visibility.
There are two primary access points for Oyster Dome. The official parking lot is located at the Samish Overlook, accessible from exit 240 on I-5. However, parking is limited, with space for only about 20 vehicles, so arriving early is strongly recommended to secure a spot. An alternative, less jarring route begins from an unofficial trailhead off Highway 11/Chuckanut Drive. This option may be preferable for those who dislike bumpy roads. Several trailheads are scattered along Chuckanut Drive; simply enter "Oyster Dome" into your GPS to locate the nearest access point. Keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities at the Chuckanut Drive trailheads, so you’ll need to make your way to the Samish Overlook for restrooms or picnic tables. A Discover Pass is required for parking at both the Samish Overlook and the Chuckanut Drive trailheads.
2. North Lost Lake
Lost Lake, the largest lake nestled within Chuckanut Mountain, offers a tranquil escape into nature. Several trails lead to its shores, each providing a unique hiking experience. For a more immersive and less crowded adventure, consider starting from the North Chuckanut Trailhead and embarking on the long route around the lake. This challenging 9-mile hike boasts an elevation gain of 1,100 feet, traversing a less-frequented path that’s perfect for hikers seeking solitude or those accompanied by dogs. The reward for your efforts is the sight of a large, serene lake, inviting you to pause for a leisurely lunch break or even a refreshing swim. While Lost Lake is beautiful year-round, the trail can become muddy, making summer the ideal season to visit.
To reach the North Chuckanut Trailhead (a Discover Pass is required), take exit 250 from I-5 and follow Old Fairhaven Parkway/SR 11. Restroom facilities are available at the trailhead. The North Chuckanut Trailhead serves as the starting point for numerous trails, so it’s advisable to bring a map or take a picture of the trail map posted at the entrance. The first fork in the trail appears relatively early; keep left to follow the Hemlock Trail, avoiding the Interurban Trail. You’ll encounter a few more forks within the first mile; continue to the right, ascending the mountain. The trail may initially seem to lead away from Lost Lake, but it will eventually straighten out in the correct direction. At some point, you’ll pass by houses and private properties; continue straight ahead and do not follow the road past the homes.
Eventually, you’ll arrive at a large fork where a map is posted. Turn right onto the North Lost Lake Trail and wind your way around the mountain. Upon reaching the lake, you can choose to complete a scenic loop or simply stop for lunch and enjoy the picturesque water views.
3. Chanterelle Trail
The Chanterelle Trail offers a captivating 4.8-mile round-trip hike with a moderate incline of 1,000 feet. This trail features a series of long switchbacks that wind through diverse forest ecosystems. It’s also an excellent choice for those hoping to spot local wildlife. The summit of the Chanterelle Trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Lake Whatcom and Bellingham Bay, as well as the San Juan Islands and the Cascade Mountains in the distance. The stunning panorama provides the perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.
This trail is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in aquatic species and birds. In fact, the Chanterelle Trail may be best enjoyed during the winter months, as this is the peak season for many bird species. The normally leafy trees are bare, allowing for clearer, unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
For optimal photography conditions, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast for rain throughout the year and for smoke during the summer months. To access the Chanterelle Trail, follow North Shore Drive to Lake Whatcom Park and park in the first parking lot. No fee or entry pass is required.
4. Padilla Bay
Padilla Bay offers a serene and accessible hiking experience, more akin to a leisurely beach walk than a strenuous climb. At just 4.4 miles roundtrip with a mere 30 feet of elevation gain, it’s the perfect choice for novice hikers, families with young children, or anyone seeking a relaxing stroll without a challenging incline. The trail follows the Skagit River to its confluence with the Salish Sea. Padilla Bay is a haven for birdlife, making it one of the premier locations in Skagit County for bird photography. During high tide, the water covers the entire bank, creating a unique and captivating landscape. In the distance, you’ll enjoy decent views of Lummi Island and Mount Baker, providing a spectacular backdrop for the frequent winged visitors diving in for a snack.
While Padilla Bay is a great trail to visit year-round, spring is particularly favorable due to the abundance of blooming flowers and migrating birds. It’s worth noting that Padilla Bay is technically closer to Mount Vernon and Anacortes than Bellingham, but still within a reasonable distance for a day trip, or as a stop on your way to or from the area. No fee or entry pass is required to access the Padilla Bay trail.
5. Chuckanut Ridge
The Chuckanut Ridge Trail serves as a vital "connector," traversing the length of Chuckanut Mountain. At 10.4 miles and 1,900 feet of elevation gain, this trail presents the most challenging hike on this list. However, your efforts will be rewarded with continuous views of Mount Baker and the mountains of lower British Columbia across the border. The Chuckanut Ridge Trail is best hiked on a clear day, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking vistas and capture stunning photographs. The trail is largely covered, providing ample shade during the warmer months. However, the section near Lost Lake can be muddy, especially from late fall to early spring, so keep this in mind when planning your hike.
There are two access points for the Chuckanut Ridge Trail. You can head to the North Chuckanut Trailhead and follow the same initial path as the North Lost Lake route until you reach the beginning of the Chuckanut Ridge Trail. Alternatively, follow Highway 11/Chuckanut Drive to Highline/Cleator Road and take a rough, dirt road to an overlook where you can park. Look for a split rail entrance, where the trail begins. Similar to the road to Samish Overlook, the road to the Highline/Cleator Road trailhead can be a bit rough and uncomfortable, and is only recommended if the North Chuckanut Trailhead is full. Both areas have bathrooms and require a Discover Pass.
6. Fragrance Lake
Fragrance Lake is nestled within the Larrabee State Park section of Chuckanut Mountain. This moderate, 5.5-mile hike with 950 feet of elevation gain is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The trail begins with steady switchbacks, making the incline manageable. After about a mile, a signpost marks the option for a short detour to a viewpoint offering stunning views of the San Juan Islands and Bellingham Bay. The main attraction, of course, is Fragrance Lake, which boasts vibrant colors throughout the seasons. The lake certainly lives up to its name, although the dominant scent is the refreshing pine aroma emanating from the surrounding old-growth Pacific Northwest trees, rather than the lake itself.
Numerous rocks and benches are scattered along the 0.6-mile lake loop, providing ideal spots for taking a break and soaking in the scenery. This is a popular trail, so it is well-maintained and clearly signposted, making it virtually impossible to get lost. It’s also one of the few trails on Chuckanut Mountain that remains relatively dry throughout the year. The lake is best enjoyed on a hot summer’s day, as it’s one of the cleanest in the area for swimming. Alternatively, if you’re up for carrying a fishing pole, there’s trout to be caught.
This hike is located off Highway 11/Chuckanut Drive, and you have the option of parking at Larrabee State Park (where you’ll find bathrooms, a beach, and picnic tables) or across the street next to the trailhead. A Discover Pass is required for parking at both locations. The natural beauty surrounding Bellingham will be sure to draw you in.
