One of Bellingham’s best amenities has to be the incredible trail systems. Both the interurban trails and the trails that surround the city limits. Our brokers at John L Scott Real Estate voted on our favorite for running or walking. There are also trails primarily for biking, and hiking. But these are the trails we love to spend our time walking the dog, or going for a morning or evening jog.
5. Fairhaven Park
Located on the Southeast side of Fairhaven just minutes from downtown at 107 Chuckanut is Fairhaven Park. Here you can enjoy miles of trails that will take you through scenic forest with salmon runs and waterfalls. The main park has courts for the sports lover with Basketball, Tennis and Pickleball. Make a reservation for the covered picnic area or pavilion and BBQ up some burgers and hot dogs while your kids play on the playground or in the splash park. Don’t worry if you didn’t plan ahead, the playground and splash park are open to all visitors with plenty of grassy areas to relax on while the kids have fun in the sun!
4. Taylor Boardwalk
Right on the waterfront connecting Boulevard Park to Historical Downtown Fairhaven is Taylor Boardwalk. Start at Boulevard and grab a coffee at the Woods right at the beginning of your quarter mile Journey on Taylor Boardwalk to Fairhaven. From there take in the beautiful views of Bellingham Bay. At the right time of day you can sit on one of the benches along the way and catch a beautiful sunset and possibly even a proposal! From there make your way to Downtown Fairhaven to look at the great shops and get some dinner at one of the many restaurants.
3. Lake Padden
Lake Padden has a little something for everyone. Located at 4882 Samish Way, you are just a little outside of the Sehome area of Bellingham. For the fishing lovers, bring your boat to launch on the calm quiet waters, or make a comfy spot on one of the fishing docks. There is a 3 mile trail around the lake that is open for walking, biking and even areas for horseback riding. With many other trails to explore you could easily lose track of time. You can enjoy the multiple sports courts or even rent a kayak or paddleboard. With a great swimming area and plenty of places to set up a picnic or BBQ, plan for all day fun.
What makes it special
I love walking next to the lake and the peaceful zen-like setting it provides.
2. Chuckanut Mountain
With a multitude of trails to choose from Chuckanut Mountain is the place for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. With trails ranging from short to long and intermediate to difficult, you have plenty to choose from. Trails surrounded by old growth trees will lead you past streams to peaceful lakes, beautiful views of Mt Baker or Bellingham Bay. One of these will be the perfect spot to rest up and eat a packed lunch before making your way back. Just make sure to get a trail map and pack some water.
1. Whatcom Falls (Northshore Trail)
Voted #1 by our brokers at John L Scott Real Estate Bellingham
Whatcom Falls Park is 241 acres of gorgeous scenery for you and the family to enjoy. Located Just outside Downtown Bellingham at 1401 Electric Ave. in the Whatcom Falls Neighborhood. You will be able to spend all day here while staying close to home.
Whatcom Falls boasts 5 miles of walking and bike-friendly trails that will lead you to four different waterfalls. You can also bring the kids to play on the two playgrounds, ride their bikes on the pump track or even get a little fishing in at the derby pond. Plan a birthday here by reserving one of the covered areas with picnic tables and BBQ’s. For those with a more athletic mindset, please check out the tennis courts and athletic fields open to all. Make sure to bring Rover along to get some exercise at the off-leash dog park.
Once you check it out, Whatcom falls is a park you will want to visit over and over!
What makes it special
It is close to town but feels like you are in the backcountry. So therapeutic!
I live on that trail, and I walk it every day. It’s amazing!!
Northshore Trail is on Lake Whatcom, and I can jump in the lake after a good run
Northshore is my favorite. It is where I got engaged, the place I ran my first 3 miles, and the place I find the most beautiful sunsets.
Northshore trail is special for the lakeside location, the awesome geology on the other side of the trail and it brings back those happy moments when I used to walk my dogs there! A regular on Thanksgiving and Mother’s Day!
What is your favorite trail in Bellingham? Let us know in the comments below.
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