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Explore Cascadia
boats on the water with mountains and trees surrounding

Whatcom County

Trip worthy places, an hour from Bellingham.

NPS Photo/D.Dixon

Before you go

  • park closure Campfire Ban in All Portions of the Park Complex Begins June 29 — North Cascades National Park
  • caution Stehekin Flash Flood and Debris Flow Area — North Cascades National Park
  • park closure Hozomeen Gate Remains Closed — North Cascades National Park
  • park closure Fire Closures - Trail, Area, and Camp Closures — North Cascades National Park
  • caution Diablo Lake Boat Launch Inaccessible to Powerboats — North Cascades National Park

This week

Updated Jul 30

Forecast

  • This Afternoon 74° Sunny
  • Friday 80° Sunny
  • Saturday 71° Showers And Thunderstorms
  • Sunday 71° Mostly Sunny

Happening


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38 places

Historic white buildings in a grassy field. Hikers are going along various trails.

American Camp History Walk

Embark on a captivating 1 mile guided walk through San Juan Island National Historical Park, where you can relive the intriguing events of the Pig War. Interpretive waysides provide historical insight into the life of soldiers at American Camp.

San Juan Island National Historical Park

Blanchard Lower Trailhead

Blanchard Lower Trailhead

Blanchard Lower serves as the southern entrance to the Chuckanut Mountains, and has wide switchbacks that connect with the Upper Trailhead, accessing 15 miles of trail.

Washington DNR

Blanchard Upper Trailhead

Blanchard Upper Trailhead

Blanchard Upper provides the main access for non-motorized recreation use in the southern portion of the Chuckanut Mountains. The 15 miles of trail provide views of Samish Bay, the San Juan Islands, and pristine forest lakes.

Washington DNR

Cypress Head

Cypress Head

One of the most popular attractions in the Cypress Island Natural Resources Conservation Area, Cypress Head campground provides stunning views of the Bellingham Channel and Mount Baker. Boat access only.

Washington DNR

Two hikers walk along a trail with mountains in the distance.

Day Hiking in North Cascades

Hike the North Cascades to experience some of the finest mountain country in North America.

North Cascades National Park

Eagle Harbor

Eagle Harbor

Located in the Cypress Island Natural Resources Conservation Area, Eagle Harbor is a quiet harbor nestled into the eastern shore of Cypress Island. Boat access only.

Washington DNR

Galbraith Mountain

Galbraith Mountain

Galbraith Mountain is a world class mountain bike destination located within riding distance of downtown Bellingham. Over 70 miles of singletrack winds through 3,000 acres overlooking the city and Bellingham Bay. The mountain is accessible to all non-motorized…

Washington DNR

Kayaking in the Salish Sea

Go Kayaking

Many people come to San Juan Island seeking the adventure of exploring the area by boat. Sea kayaks are very popular for travel among the islands. Operating a small craft on the Salish Sea is fun and exciting, but can also be extremely hazardous when weather conditions become unfavorable. Paddlers must know their equipment, know their limits, obtain a current weather forecast, and respect the ever-changing environment of Puget Sound.

15-300 Minutes

A formal garden with flowers and manicured hedges in front of historic English military buildings.

Hike Officer's Hill

The trails surrounding the Officers’ Quarters at English Camp offer a captivating journey through history and nature.

San Juan Island National Historical Park

Look outside

Live from WSDOT

  • WSF Orcas Ferry HoldingWSF Orcas Ferry Holding
  • WSF Orcas Ferry BoothWSF Orcas Ferry Booth
  • WSF Lopez Ferry ApproachWSF Lopez Ferry Approach
  • WSF Lopez Ferry Holding Looking SouthWSF Lopez Ferry Holding Looking South
  • WSF Lopez Ferry Holding MiddleWSF Lopez Ferry Holding Middle
  • WSF Lopez Ferry Holding Looking NorthWSF Lopez Ferry Holding Looking North

Reload for the latest frame. Cameras go dark at night and in heavy weather, which is itself worth knowing before you set off.