Where to See Fall Colors in Bellingham and Whatcom County

Over 6 miles of trails wind through this forested park next to Western Washington University. No trip to the arboretum is complete without a stop at the 80-foot observation tower. Consult the park map to find your way to the top. Park atop the hill at the end of Arboretum Drive for easy access to the tunnel and observation tower. 

Bellingham’s favorite waterfall is perhaps best viewed in the fall. As rain returns to the region, the falls swell beneath a canopy of colorful leaves. Walk along several miles of forested trails throughout the park, or simply stop by to see the falls from a 1939-built Stone Bridge — located just a few hundred paces from the parking lot. 

Western’s outdoor sculpture collection is celebrated as one of the top university collections in the entire United States. Wander the red-brick campus in search of art and color. Or plan ahead by visiting the WWU Outdoor Sculpture Garden site for a handy map, descriptions of each installation, and multimedia tours.

The Hertz trail features covered bridges, quiet beaches, and calming fall colors. This railroad-turned-trail once served the Blue Canyon Mines at the south end of the lake. Today, it’s an easy hike for all ages. Walk along a soft path of orange and yellow maple leaves in the fall on this scenic lakeside stroll.

At 6 miles (one way), this mostly flat former trolley line is well-used by walkers, bikers, and joggers. Running from Fairhaven Village to Larrabee State Park, the trail parallels Chuckanut Drive — another hotspot for Mother Nature’s fall show. Park at the roomy lot in Fairhaven Park to begin near town. Or access the trail from Arroyo Park or the North Chuckanut Mountain trailhead.

Drive scenic Mount Baker Highway for 54 miles east of Bellingham to take in one of the finest views in Whatcom County: Mount Shuksan reflected in Picture Lake. With a fresh dusting of snow on Mount Shuksan and an array of fall colors, Picture Lake is especially picturesque during autumn. Walk the 0.5-mile, ADA-accessible loop trail around the lake for views from every angle. This trail tends to get busy, so plan to visit during off-peak times if you can.

Drive another 0.5 miles beyond Picture Lake on Mount Baker Highway to reach Heather Meadows and the trailhead for Bagley Lakes. Situated in a cirque beneath towering Table Mountain, these sparkling alpine lakes can be explored via an easy 2-mile loop trail. Or you can simply take the views in from the Heather Meadows Visitor Center. Whichever you choose, you’ll be treated to seasonal fall colors galore. This area may be inaccessible due to snow after October — check the latest conditions before setting out.

Several hiking trails spur off of the Interurban Trail, reaching deep into the Chuckanut Mountains. At the north end (near Arroyo Park), consider visiting Chuckanut Falls after a good rain. From here you can continue along the Hemlock Trail to Raptor Ridge and Pine and Cedar Lakes for a more challenging hike. Further south in Larrabee State Park, the Interurban Trail intersects with the popular Fragrance Lake Trail — another favorite fall hike.

If color is what you’re looking for, then Yellow Aster Butte is the hike for you. This hike is located off Mt. Baker Highway. Make sure to check on road conditions and get there early for parking near the trailhead. This hike is quite popular so plan to hike early or, ideally, on a weekday.

Artist Point is the scenic area located at the very end of Highway 542, also known as Mount Baker Highway. Score incredible fall colors as you drive up the mountain, and then keep going on one of numerous hikes accessible from the large parking area, which fits 160 vehicles. This is a popular area, so get there early or opt for a weekday outing if possible.