Top Outdoor Activities in Bellingham, WA

With its stunning waterfront, lush forests, and mountain views, Bellingham is an outdoor lover’s dream. Whether you enjoy hiking scenic trails, kayaking on the bay, or biking through dense evergreens, this Pacific Northwest city has something for everyone. If you're searching for things to do in Bellingham, these top outdoor activities highlight the best ways to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Whatcom Falls Park is one of Bellingham’s most popular outdoor destinations, offering over five miles of scenic trails, lush forested areas, and stunning waterfalls. The park’s well-maintained paths make it ideal for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.

The highlight of the park is Whatcom Falls itself, a picturesque waterfall cascading over a historic stone bridge. For those looking to explore further, trails lead through old-growth forests, peaceful creeks, and smaller waterfalls along the way. Whether it’s a morning run or an afternoon nature walk, Whatcom Falls Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for things to do in Bellingham’s great outdoors.

The historic Fairhaven District is the perfect starting point for a scenic walk or bike ride along the South Bay Trail. This easy, 2-mile waterfront trail connects Fairhaven to downtown Bellingham, offering panoramic views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands.

Along the route, visitors can stop at Boulevard Park, a local favorite with open green spaces, picnic areas, and a wooden boardwalk that extends over the water. The park is also home to Woods Coffee, which is a great place to grab a drink and take in the bay views. Whether biking, jogging, or just taking a leisurely stroll, the South Bay Trail is an excellent way to experience Bellingham’s waterfront.

For those who love being on the water, Bellingham Bay provides an incredible setting for kayaking and paddleboarding. Paddlers can launch from locations like Marine Park in Fairhaven or Cornwall Beach Park, exploring the bay’s calm waters while enjoying views of Lummi Island, the San Juan Islands, and the surrounding mountains.

Wildlife sightings are common, with seals, otters, and even bald eagles making frequent appearances. Rental shops like Community Boating Center in Fairhaven provide equipment and guided tours, making it easy for both beginners and experienced paddlers to enjoy the bay.

Considered one of the best mountain biking destinations in the Pacific Northwest, Galbraith Mountain offers over 65 miles of well-maintained trails for riders of all skill levels. Located just outside downtown Bellingham, the mountain provides a mix of flowy singletrack, technical downhill sections, and scenic cross-country routes.

Local riders appreciate the diverse terrain, well-built jumps, and challenging rock gardens. Beginners can stick to the gentler trails on the south side of the mountain, while advanced riders can test their skills on the steeper descents on the north side. With stunning forested views and year-round accessibility, Galbraith Mountain is a must-visit for any biking enthusiast.

As Washington’s first state park, Larrabee State Park is a gem for outdoor lovers. Located just south of Bellingham, this 2,748-acre park offers hiking, camping, beachcombing, and breathtaking coastal views.

Hikers can take the Fragrance Lake Trail, a 4.3-mile round-trip hike that leads to a serene mountain lake surrounded by evergreens. For those who prefer a shorter walk, the Clayton Beach Trail offers stunning views of Chuckanut Bay and rocky shoreline formations. Larrabee is also a great spot for kayaking, fishing, and watching the sunset over the bay.

One of the most scenic drives in Washington, Chuckanut Drive stretches 24 miles along the coast, offering stunning views of Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and lush forests. The winding route is a favorite for road trips, cycling, and weekend drives, with plenty of stops along the way for hiking and dining.

Popular stops include Larrabee State Park, Oyster Dome Trail, and Taylor Shellfish Farms, where visitors can enjoy fresh oysters right by the water. Whether driving or biking, Chuckanut Drive showcases some of the best coastal scenery near Bellingham.

While not directly in Bellingham, whale watching tours from the Bellingham Cruise Terminal offer an unforgettable experience. Tours take visitors into the San Juan Islands, where they have the chance to see orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and porpoises in their natural habitat.

Local companies like San Juan Cruises offer guided excursions with onboard naturalists who provide insights into marine wildlife and conservation. Peak whale watching season runs from spring through fall, making it a perfect seasonal activity for visitors and residents alike.

For those who enjoy a more relaxed outdoor experience, Lake Padden Golf Course offers a scenic 18-hole championship course surrounded by towering evergreens. The course provides a challenging but approachable layout, making it great for both seasoned golfers and beginners.

Beyond golf, Lake Padden Park offers fishing, kayaking, and a network of hiking trails, making it a great destination for a full day of outdoor activities.

Living in Bellingham means having world-class outdoor adventures right in your backyard. Whether you’re looking for a home near the bay, mountains, or parks, the team at Julian & Company can help you find the perfect fit. Contact Julian & Company today to explore real estate opportunities in this beautiful Pacific Northwest city.