Fall is a great time to explore the Stimpson Family Nature Reserve, a quiet gem of Whatcom County's park system.

Located on Lake Louise Road, the woody haven offers leaf-crunching walks during our golden autumns, and pleasant strolls under a forest canopy when the rains come. Keep a sharp ear for songbirds, and a sharp eye for waterfowl and maybe beaver at two trailside ponds.

The 4.2 miles of trail, spread over two loops, wind through wetlands and mostly second-growth forest, with a few hilly parts. The first 525 feet of trail is accessible by wheelchair.

It's a fine destination for families with infants or small kids. Because it's a nature reserve, bicycles, horses and pets are not allowed.

To get there from Bellingham, follow Lakeway Drive east to Cable Street, turn right onto Austin Street and continue uphill until it becomes Lake Louise Road. When the road starts a steep, curvy drop, look for the parking area on the left. From Sudden Valley, follow Lake Louise for about a mile beyond Sudden Valley Gate 13.

By bus, catch route 512 (Sudden Valley), which departs 40 minutes after the hour from the downtown station. Buses run hourly during the day, except Sundays.