Things to do in the spring
As winter fades away and spring starts to bloom, the Pacific Northwest comes alive
What makes the perfect trail? One that checks all the boxes, but isn’t too far away. A trail you can walk with kids and leashed dogs; a trail open to hikers and mountain bikers alike year-round. It’s moderately challenging — maybe 5 miles round-trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain— and offers options for extending your hike or making a loop. And of course, the payoff is oh-so-worth-it.
The Chanterelle Trail to Lake Whatcom Overlook is a stunning hike that takes you through the lush forests of Washington State and offers breathtaking views of Lake Whatcom and the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, this trail is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature.
The trail is approximately 5.3 miles round trip and has a moderate level of difficulty. It is not recommended for those who have limited mobility or for young children, as there are some steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, for those who are up for a challenge, the trail offers a workout and a chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
One of the highlights of the trail is the breathtaking views of Lake Whatcom from the overlook. The lake is surrounded by towering mountains, and from the overlook, you can see for miles in every direction. On a clear day, the water is a brilliant blue, and the mountains are dotted with evergreens. It’s a sight that will take your breath away and leave you feeling invigorated and inspired.
Along the way, you will pass through lush forests filled with ferns, mosses, and towering trees. You’ll also see a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and other woodland creatures. There are several streams and small waterfalls along the trail, adding to the peaceful and serene atmosphere.
In addition to the stunning scenery, the Chanterelle Trail to Lake Whatcom Overlook is a great opportunity to connect with nature and get some exercise. The trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace, so it’s the perfect length for a half-day adventure. You can go at your own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of the forest, or you can push yourself to reach the top of the overlook as quickly as possible. Either way, the journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, the Chanterelle Trail to Lake Whatcom Overlook is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the city and experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, this trail offers a workout, stunning scenery, and a chance to connect with nature. So pack a picnic lunch, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget.
From Bellingham, navigate around the north end of Lake Whatcom to Lake Whatcom Park’s Chanterelle Trail trailhead. This is Parking Area 2 on the county parks map. Begin your hike at the trailhead kiosk.
The trail takes off uphill at a moderate, yet steady grade. Climb through the moss-and-fern forest, crossing the Wickersham road at 0.6 miles. You’ll cross this forest road a few times during your hike to the top. Notice how the forest changes around you as you gain elevation. Sunlight filters through leafless deciduous trees during winter, while evergreens provide dense cover at higher elevations.
At 2.4 miles, a wide and flat gravel path leads past boulders to the Lake Whatcom Overlook. Enjoy lunch atop the rock of your choice with a view of the lake. Then, return via the same route or make a loop by descending on the forest road. Though powerlines overhead can be a distraction, the forest road is more exposed and offers good lake views on the descent.
The Upper Chanterelle Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike located in the mountains of Washington State. This trail is for experienced hikers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Whatcom.
The trail is approximately 4 miles round trip and has a strenuous level of difficulty due to steep inclines, rocky terrain, and narrow paths. Hikers should come prepared with sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure.
One of the main highlights of the Upper Chanterelle Trail is the stunning views of Lake Whatcom and the surrounding mountains. From the top, you can see for miles in every direction, and the crystal-clear lake and lush green forests are truly breathtaking.
Along the way, you will encounter diverse wildlife, including deer, birds, and other woodland creatures. The trail also features lush forests filled with ferns, mosses, and towering trees, making it a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Upper Chanterelle Trail is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are up for the challenge, it offers a workout, stunning scenery, and a chance to connect with nature. The journey takes about 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace, and is the perfect length for a full-day adventure.
In conclusion, the Upper Chanterelle Trail is a must-visit for experienced hikers who are looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. Whether you’re looking for a workout, stunning scenery, or a chance to connect with nature, this trail has it all. So lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic lunch, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the beautiful wilderness of Washington State.
As winter fades away and spring starts to bloom, the Pacific Northwest comes alive
Bellingham, Washington is a city that offers a variety of activities and events for visitors
Bellewood Farms, located in Bellingham, Washington, is a picturesque
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