Outdoor Adventure

Where do we begin? The Bellingham Mt. Baker region is blessed with tons of outdoor fun, all within easy reach. From the salt-water bays to the peak of Mt. Baker, where else can you "do it all" in one day? This is an action packed, hold on to your pants kind of place. Try some challenging ice climbing on a glacier flanking "the big white one." Settle into a sleek kayak and paddle around the uncrowded coves along Chuckanut Drive.

Look in a dictionary under adventure…you just might see a map of our region! Need proof? Many publications and organizations, including Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines, have recognized the region for its adventure and recreation.

Skiing: Shush down the slopes of a laid-back ski destination that boasts the most snowfall EVER in a single season at Mt Baker Ski Area. We are talking a world record of 1,140 inches! This is the mountain where snowboarding was virtually invented, but skiers and snowboarders of all skills are welcome and treated like neighbors. For conditions and information call Mt. Baker Ski Area at (360) 734-6771. Looking for trails to cross-country ski or snow shoe? Click here for cross country skiing information. And if you are a snowmobile fan, this State Parks Web site has information on the Glacier and Canyon Creek Snoparks along the Mt. Baker Highway (State Route 542).

For details on all snow activities check our Snow Sports fact sheet.

Hiking: Bellingham was named "Trail Town U.S.A." nearly ten years ago by the National Park Service and American Hiking Society. We have miles of trails and thousands of stunning views. Come, take a stroll, breathe the air, find your soul. Stop by the Visitor Center at I-5 Exit 253 or the USFS Center in Glacier on State Route 542 for maps and trails to suit any needs.For more information about our local hiking club go to the Mt. Baker Hiking Club.

Access the City of Bellingham’s trail guides.

Biking: Spin the wheels of your imagination and you will find a trail or road to meet your bicycling fantasies. "Mountain Bike" magazine recently rated our region as one of the top ten places to toss the trail dirt. Check our Bicycling fact sheet for a basic list of routes and trails.

Golfing: Get teed off! The Bellingham Mt. Baker region has more public golf courses than any area in Oregon, Washington and Idaho, according to Golf Digest magazine. From the rolling contours of a Scottish-style course to the one of the best civic links in the nation, this region is ideal for a golfing getaway. Check our Golf fact sheet for details on the courses.

Horseback riding: Check the options at our Horseback Riding fact sheet.

Boat Charters You want water? We’ve got it! Rent a sailboat or kayak. Join a charter trip to the stunning San Juan Islands or Victoria. Take an exhilarating raft trip on the Nooksack River. Watch the mighty Orca whales glide majestically in their home waterways. Our friendly tour operators and guides can help. Go to our Charters, Tours & Travel Services for a water-based adventure.

Fan of fishing? We have fresh and salt water fishing opportunities year-round. Take a look at our printable Fishing resource sheet.

For a slower pace Mt. Baker Highway (SR 542), Chuckanut Drive(State Route 11) and historic districts offer compelling sightseeing fun.

We’re going to the birds! Northwest Washington is famous for year-round bird watching. See bald eagles feeding on spawning salmon (December-March), shore birds along Blaine’s Drayton Harbor or a range of other birds at 15 birding locations in Whatcom County. For a fact sheet on bird sites in the region, take a flight to our Bird Watching fact sheet.