Splendid hiking trails envelop Lake Padden

LAKE PADDEN LOOP

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It’s a short drive to get to Lake Padden Park in Bellingham, a gem of a getaway thanks partly to this easy loop that boasts water views and a stroll through the woods. Another 5.1 miles of trails that branch off to the south and the east offer more of a challenge.

Difficulty: Easy.

Elevation gain: Minimal.

Round trip: 2.6 miles.

Hiking time: 55 minutes.

Best time to go: Year-round.

Users: Runners and walkers mainly. Mountain bikers and horses may pass by on their way to hilly terrain on nearby trails.

Family friendly: Yes. The trail is wide and relatively flat. Interpretive signs provide information about the Padden Creek watershed.

Dogs: Dogs must be on a leash at all times, except while in the dog exercise area near the ball fields and on off-leash trails to the south and east of the lake.

Amenities: Picnic tables, grills for barbecuing, restrooms, softball fields, beachfront with swimming area, golf course, boat launch.

Maps: Bellingham Trail Guide. Find it online by going to www.cob.org/services, then clicking on “Trails” under the “Recreation” heading. Then scroll down to “Lake Padden.” Find printed versions at the Bellingham Parks Department office at 3424 Meridian St. (Cornwall Park). Maps also are posted at various places along the loop.

Getting there: From Bellingham, head south on Samish Way until you see the two park entrances on your right. You’ll travel about 2.2 miles from the Samish Way overpass at Interstate 5. The horse trailer parking is at the Wilkin Street trailhead.