Bellingham, a charming city in Washington state, is just 30 miles south of the Canadian border. Once home to the Indigenous tribes of the Lummi, Nooksack, Samish, and Semiahmoo, this region is a great stop for hiking enthusiasts. The main hiking spots are Blanchard and Chuckanut peaks, which feature most of the trails on this list. You’ll also find many scenic, easy trails near the water, perfect for families with children or those wanting a leisurely walk.
All trails permit pets if they’re on a leash, and many require a Discover Pass for entry. This pass grants access to public recreation sites across Washington and can be purchased online.
One of the area’s favorite hikes is Oyster Dome, known for its breathtaking views. After a strenuous 2.5-mile trek with a 1,050-foot climb up Blanchard Mountain, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Lummi Island, the San Juans, Samish Bay, and Skagit River Flats, with distant sights of Vancouver Island and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a picture-perfect spot, but be cautious of the sudden drop-off. It’s not recommended for small children unless they’re experienced hikers. The weather can be unpredictable in Western Washington, so be sure to check the forecast for Bellingham and aim for clear skies.
There are two ways to reach Oyster Dome. The official parking area is the Samish Overlook, accessible from exit 240 on I-5. It holds about 20 cars, so try to arrive early for a spot. If you prefer a smoother ride, start from the unofficial trailhead off Highway 11/Chuckanut Drive. Enter “Oyster Dome” into your GPS to find multiple trailheads on Chuckanut Drive. Note that there are no facilities, so you’ll need to reach Samish Overlook for restrooms and picnic areas. Both parking locations require a Discover Pass.
Lost Lake, the largest lake on Chuckanut Mountain, offers several route options. Starting from North Chuckanut Trailhead for the longer path is recommended. This challenging 9-mile hike has a 1,100-foot elevation gain and is less crowded, perfect for those with dogs or avoiding big groups. The reward is a large, peaceful lake ideal for a lunch break or swim. It’s enjoyable year-round but can be muddy, making summer the best time to visit.
To get to North Chuckanut Trailhead, take exit 250 from I-5 and follow Old Fairhaven Parkway/SR 11. Toilets are available. The trailhead starts numerous paths, so bring a map or snap a picture of the one at the entrance. At the first fork, stay left for Hemlock Trail—not Interurban. Keep right at the next forks until you start heading correctly towards Lost Lake. You’ll pass some homes and private properties, but stay straight and don’t follow the road past the houses. Eventually, you’ll reach a large fork with a map; turn right onto North Lost Lake Trail to circle around the mountain. At the lake, opt for a scenic loop or take a lunch break with a water view.
Chanterelle Trail is a 4.8-mile round-trip hike with a steady incline of 1,000 feet, featuring long switchbacks through diverse forests. It’s excellent for wildlife spotting. At the top, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Lake Whatcom, Bellingham Bay, and the San Juan Islands and Cascades in the distance, making for perfect photo backdrops. This trail is ideal for those interested in wildlife, particularly aquatic species and birds. Winter might be the best time to visit due to the abundance of bird species, and the barren trees offer clearer panoramic views. Be sure to monitor the weather for rain year-round and smoke in summer. Access this trail via North Shore Drive to Lake Whatcom Park, parking in the first lot. No fee or pass is required.
Another great option is a gentle beach walk at 4.4 miles round trip with only 30 feet of elevation gain. It’s perfect for beginner hikers, families with young kids, or anyone seeking a pleasant stroll with little incline. You’ll follow the Skagit River to its mouth at the Salish Sea. Padilla Bay is teeming with bird life, making it top choice in Skagit County for bird photography. At high tide, water blankets the entire bank, creating an intriguing landscape. Distant views include Lummi Island and Mount Baker—a stunning environment for frequent bird visits. While this is appealing year-round, spring is exceptional due to blooming flowers and bird migrations. This trail is closer to Mount Vernon and Anacortes than Bellingham, but it’s still practical for a day trek or a side trip when traveling to or from the area. No fee or pass is necessary.
Chuckanut Ridge connects one end of Chuckanut Mountain to the other, spanning 10.4 miles with a 1,900-foot elevation gain, making it the most challenging on the list. You’ll enjoy views of Mount Baker and British Columbia’s lower mountains across the border. Hike on a clear day to savor the stunning views and take magnificent photos. The trail is shaded, offering relief from sun exposure during warmer months. Expect mud, particularly near Lost Lake, from late fall to early spring. Two access points are available: North Chuckanut Trailhead along the initial path of North Lost Lake or via Highway 11/Chuckanut Drive to Highline/Cleator Road, taking a rough dirt road to an overlook for parking. Look for a split rail entrance where the trail begins. The road to Samish Overlook is also rough and uncomfortable, only recommended if North Chuckanut is full. Both areas have bathrooms and need a Discover Pass.
Fragrance Lake is part of the Larrabee State Park section of Chuckanut Mountain. This moderate 5.5-mile hike with 950 feet of elevation gain is suitable for all skill levels. The steady switchbacks make the climb manageable. About a mile in, a signpost signals a brief detour to view the San Juans and Bellingham Bay. Fragrance Lake itself is colorful year-round, living up to its name with the scent of old-growth Pacific Northwest trees. A 0.6-mile loop around the lake is perfect for a break with rocks and benches available. This popular trail is well-maintained and signed, making it easy to follow, and remains dry throughout the year. The lake is best enjoyed in summer as it’s one of the cleanest for swimming. You can even try catching trout if you bring a fishing pole.
Located off Highway 11/Chuckanut Drive, you can park at Larrabee State Park (with bathrooms, a beach, and picnic tables) or across the street near the trailhead. Both require a Discover Pass.
