Bellingham, Washington is home to stunning hiking trails right within city limits. From lush forests to crystal clear lakes, Bellingham offers a variety of hiking destinations great for a half-day, full-day, or short outing into nature, and for hikers of all ability level.
Here are a few favorite hiking spots in town. You can find even more hikes in and around Bellingham on our main hiking page.
This waterfront park offers great views of Bellingham Bay. The flat and well-maintained South Bay Trail connects Fairhaven District to downtown Bellingham with a section of the boardwalk over water. Best access is from Boulevard Park or from downtown Fairhaven at 10th & Mill Street.
The trail skirts around one of Bellingham's serene lakes. There’s also five miles of mountain bike trails. Take I-5 exit 252 & drive southeast two miles.
Trails braid around Whatcom Creek in this woodland city park. Highlights include a waterfall and old stone bridge. The trails connect with Bloedel Donovan Park at Whatcom Lake. Take I-5 exit 253 and drive two miles east on Lakeway Drive. Or begin the Whatcom Creek Trail in Maritime Heritage Park in downtown Bellingham.
The Interurban trail connects urban greenways throughout southern Bellingham. You can access the trail from various points in Fairhaven Village or at Fairhaven Park. It eventually connects to Arroyo Park, winding through the forest all the way to Larrabee State Park.
A paved trail runs from Hotel Bellwether around the harbor to Zuanich Point Park. Beautiful views of the bay and boats. Enjoy nearby restaurants and ample parking.
Walk along a wooded hill adjacent to Western Washington University. Take in views of Bellingham Bay from an observation tower at the summit. You may also drive to the top of the hill and park to access the tower. I-5 exit 252, left on Bill McDonald Parkway and right on 25th Street.
