Recreation Northwest is helping locals and visitors alike get outside to explore Bellingham through a new perspective.
“It’s the only program of its kind in Whatcom County,” says Executive Director, Todd Elsworth. “When things shut down in 2020, we saw a spike in interest to get outside. Many people who were previously tied down by their schedules, found themselves with lots of free time to explore their own backyards. While doing our research, we witnessed the public yearning for direction outside, both in where to go and what to do when you get there. So we decided to fill that growing gap.”
The organization operates on the principle of helping people have fun, while they learn to recreate outside safely and respectfully. Their programs are for people of all ages; from young families to active seniors. Tours are guided on foot or bike, giving locals, newcomers and visitors the inside scoop on Bellingham’s green spaces, trails and waterways.
Adventures include Biking Bellingham’s Greenways, Day Hikes & Bikes to Woodstock Farm and more. Nature Immersion experiences teach people how to destress and disconnect from their screens, while engaging all five senses to reconnect with nature. Park Tours are rich with history and nature education. One of their most popular tours takes place at the iconic Woodstock Farm along Chuckanut Drive. Because of the limited parking, guests meet at Recreation Northwest’s downtown Bellingham office on Forest Street before climbing aboard the Adventure Shuttle where the fun begins.
“We’re out here helping people learn how to safely and confidently access local trails, experience the beauty of our parks, and importantly, our goal is to help our community reconnect with each other while discovering a deeper connection with nature and Bellingham.”
About Recreation Northwest: Recreation Northwest is a Bellingham, Washington-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation and bringing people together to enjoy, preserve and improve the places where we play.
Recreation Northwest provides opportunities for beginner and intermediate experiences learning outdoor recreation skills; enjoying the health benefits of being mindful in the outdoors through immersive experiences in nature; and having a local guide lead you by foot or bike to connect our parks and our people through adventure and storytelling.
For more information, visit RecreationNorthwest.org.
