Outdoor Recreation

Whatcom County 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.

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.

Land Adventures

Sightseeing

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

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? Check out the Nooksack Nordic Ski Club 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).

Skiing & Snow Sports
Snow Sports.pdf
Version: Snowsports.pm/1/09

Information about downhill and cross country skiing, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, sledding, equipment rentals and contacts.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	January 1, 2009

142.7 KiB
88 Downloads
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Hiking

Bellingham was once named “Trail Town U.S.A.” 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.

Hikes & Trails
Hiking Trails.pdf
Version: pm.hikes_trails.10/09

This is a selection of popular hikes and trails in the city, county and Mt. Baker area.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	October 1, 2009

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Bicycling

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. Locate a trail or bike route at this terrific Website for bike maps.

Bicycling
Bicycling.pdf
Version: InD.biking.3/10

Suggested trails, bike shops, bike rentals, bicycle clubs and websites.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	March 1, 2010

139.4 KiB
347 Downloads
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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.

Golfing
Golfing.pdf
Version: pm.golf.12/09

We have more golf courses per capita than any region in the Pacific Northwest. Includes approximate green fees and contact information.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	December 1, 2009

152.9 KiB
167 Downloads
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Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding
Horses.pdf
Version: pm.horse.4/08

Contacts for horse trails, stables, and horse events.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	April 1, 2008

134.3 KiB
412 Downloads
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Bird Watching

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.

Bird Watching
Birding.pdf
Version: InDesign.birds.5/09

Identifies the most popular locations for bird watching.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	May 1, 2009

138.8 KiB
119 Downloads
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Water Adventures

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 member list to find your next water-based adventure. Be sure to check the tide tables before you start your adventure!

Beaches

There are many opportunities to enjoy the water in Whatcom county! Please visit Whatcom County Park and Recreation’s website to view our salt and fresh water beaches.

Kayaking

Mother nature, with all her moods, creates exhilarating, relaxing and challenging opportunities for kayaking in the Bellingham Mt. Baker region. This is your chance to check out the saltwater inlets of Bellingham Bay or the raging whitewater of the Nooksack River. Helpful links include the above tide tables, directory of member tour operators.

Water Adventures
Water Adventures.pdf
Version: InD.wateradventures.8/10

Whale watching, cruising, sailing, kayaking, and contacts for the ferries.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	August 27, 2010

223.6 KiB
898 Downloads
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Fishing

Fan of fishing? We have fresh and salt water fishing opportunities year-round.

Fishing
Fishing.pdf
Version: Fishing.pm.5/09

Info on fishing charters, rivers, lakes and sporting goods stores.

Languages:	English
Category:	Resource Guides
Date:	May 1, 2009

139.2 KiB
300 Downloads
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Events

Be sure to check out our comprehensive and searchable Whatcom County Event Calendar for more great outdoor recreation opportunities!