Adventure Itinerary: Bike, Paddle, Hike

A. Mountain Bike

Explore Galbraith or Chuckanut Mountains via bike: Both offer miles of single-track trails for mountain bike enthusiasts. Galbraith is known as the “mountain bike Mecca” of Northwest Washington for any kind of rider–cross country, downhill, advanced or beginner riders can all find aspects of the mountain to enjoy. Bring your own bike or rent one by the hour or day from one of several local bike shops.

B. Paddle

Bellingham has been named “best place to paddle” by Outside Magazine and Outdoors Northwest for many reasons, and one of them is the 143 miles of shoreline that kayakers, canoeists and paddle boarders can easily access. Take a sunset kayak on Chuckanut Bay out of Larrabee State Park, guided or on your own. Jump in your canoe and explore local lakes like Padden, Whatcom or Samish. Or head to the waterfront and dip your paddleboard in at Boulevard Park to discover Bellingham Bay.

C. Take A Hike

Head to Mt Baker on State Route 542 (also known as the Mt Baker Highway) for a full-day adventure and to experience hundreds of miles of lush National forest and trails that range from easy to strenuous. For current trail and weather conditions, stop at the National Forest Ranger Station in Glacier. Expect 1-1.5 hour trip via car. For a closer-to-Bellingham hike, try the Chuckanut Mountains. Trails are less steep, but offer gorgeous views of the Bay.

D. Caffeine-Addicts

The Woods Coffee is the Starbucks of Whatcom County. The ever-expanding local chain has coffee shops and drive-thru’s all throughout the county from Interstate-5 exits to downtown Bellingham.

E. Drink Like a Local

Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro is the quintessential Bellingham stop for a locally-crafted beer. Their award-winning brews range from the hopped-up IPA to the sweetly satisfying Scotch Ale. Enjoy pub favorites like Yam Ale-chiladas and Mac’n Cheese after burning all those calories.