Whatcom County maintains a variety of trails, both in and around Bellingham, Washington! Discover these incredible hikes and soak up views of lakes, forests, beaches, marshes, and more. Learn more about trails and parks in Whatcom County here. For more hikes in and around Bellingham, go to our main hiking page.
A level scenic lakeside trail snuggled tightly between Stewart Mountain and Lake Whatcom. Drive around the north end of the lake and almost to the end of North Shore Road to get to the parking lot and trailhead.
Stroll through a dense forest and past a large beaver pond. Cougars have been sighted in the area, so pay attention. Water crossings have wooden bridges. Take Lakeway Drive east from the freeway. Stay right on all the forks in the road until you see the sign for Lake Louise. Turn right on Austin Road (turns into Lake Louise Road) and follow it 1.6 miles to a small signed parking area on the left.
A 1.5 mile trail and boardwalk meanders through a wetland marsh at Tennant Lake. Climb a viewing tower, too! A .5 mile trail connects the lake with Hovander’s “big red barn.” There are also two miles of trail running along the river dike of the Nooksack River. Take I-5 exit 262 and head west toward Ferndale on Main Street. At the railroad underpass, turn south onto Homestead Road and follow the signs.
Home to over 8 miles of mixed-use hiking and biking trails, Lookout Mountain offers a quiet place to explore among the trees. The trailhead is located next to Sudden Valley, just a short drive from the heart of Bellingham.
Find lush forest vibes, an overlook area, and a waterfall.
Easy paved trail with scenic water views next to Semiahmoo Resort. Great for a family bike ride with young children or for bird watching. Venture to the other side of the spit for a beach walk. Take I-5 exit 270 and follow the signs to Semiahmoo Resort (about 9 miles).
Features 54 acres of forest, bluff and beach, with a .75 mile fully accessible trail to spectacular viewpoints of the Strait of Georgia and San Juan Islands. A switchback path descends from the bluff to access a windswept cobble beach. Take I-5 Exit 266 Grandview Road and drive west 8.5 miles then curve left on Koehn Road.
This interpretive trail offers a nice walk featuring views of more than 30 species of birds. Beach and mud flats adjacent with free parking.
