Madrone Crest Trail: Waterfall, eagles, Baker view all part of allure

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Snow-covered Mount Baker is the payoff for hiking to the viewpoint of Madrone Crest. If you look overhead, you might see bald eagles soaring in the sky.

Other highlights: A long, moderate climb that allows you to stretch your legs and get your heart rate up; a small waterfall near the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead, which is your starting point; and a walk through lush forest on Salal Trail, which connects to Madrone Crest.

Difficulty: Moderate

| KIE RELYEA THE BELLINGHAM HERALD

Elevation gain: 1,280 feet

Round trip: 6.8 miles

Hiking time: 2 hours, 40 minutes

Users: Hikers, bicyclists and horses

Best times to hike: Yearround

Family friendly: Yes, but keep a close eye on children at the viewpoint because there are no barriers to the steep drop-off.

Amenities: Portable toilet in parking lot near trailhead.

Maps: Whatcom County Parks and Recreation Department’s trail map. Print one by going to www.co.whatcom.wa.us /parks/, clicking on “Trails” and then “Madrone Crest.” Or Washington State Department of Natural Resources map at www.dnr.wa.gov. Click on “Recreation,” then “Trail Map/Brochure Series.” Select “Chuckanut Mountain.” Dogs: Dogs must be on a leash.

Driving directions: From Bellingham, head south on Chuckanut Drive to the parking lot for the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead, near California Street. It’s seven miles to the parking lot from downtown Bellingham.

Getting there: From the trailhead, walk on the Interurban Trail for about a ½-mile until it hooks up with Hemlock Trail. Veer right and go up Hemlock Trail. Stay on Hemlock until it hooks up with North Lost Lake Trail. Stick on this trail until you see a lefthand turn that will put you on Salal Trail, which is narrower. It’s 1.2 miles to Madrone Crest from here. Look for a sign that tells you to go right to head up the Madrone Crest Trail; the viewpoint is 0.8-mile from here.

The trail ends at a rocky outcropping and clearing on your right. You’ll have to peek around the trees to see Mount Baker on your right. Or pick your way carefully down a short, rugged path on your left for a full view of the magnificent mountain.