Lake Whatcom: Easy trail offers serene lakeside hike

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This graveled trail at North Lake Whatcom Park treats hikers to a pretty walk through lush woods that open up to views of Lake Whatcom. The trail, sandwiched between the lake’s eastern shores and Stewart Mountain, follows the former railroad grade for the old Blue Canyon mine. If you don’t know what that is, interpretive signs along the way will explain.

Best of all, hikers will be treated to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the lake’s shores on one side and the pell-mell rush of several small waterfalls on the other. Difficulty: Easy.

Elevation gain: Minimal.

Round trip: 6.2 miles.

Hiking time: 1 hour 50 minutes.

Users: Hikers and cyclists.

Best time: Year-round.

Family friendly: Yes. The path is wide and easy to follow. Interpretive signs along the way explain the city’s history as it relates to activities around Lake Whatcom as well as the natural history of Lake Whatcom and its basins.

Dogs: Dogs must be on a leash.

Amenities: Restroom at trailhead. Benches along the way that invite hikers to rest and admire the view.

Maps: Whatcom County Parks and Recreation Department’s trail map. Find it online www.co.whatcom.wa.us. Click on “Trails” under the “Parks & Recreation” heading, and then “North Lake Whatcom.”

Driving directions: Follow North Shore Drive around the north end of Lake Whatcom past Agate Bay and across the bridge at Smith Creek. Look for a green sign on your left that reads “North Lake Whatcom Trailhead.” Turn left and follow for a halfmile to the parking lot. Distance from downtown Bellingham: About 12 miles.

Parking and access for those in wheelchairs is 0.25-mile toward the lake from the main parking area.

Getting there: The trailhead is located just off the parking lot.