Winter time is play time, indoors or out in Whatcom County
Keep your kids fit during the chilly winter months by taking advantage of nearby recreational spots. Be sure to check for inclement weather, and to make sure venues are open.
Roller skating in Lynden
Whether it’s a celebration for a birthday, drop-in hockey, skate lessons or just a spin on the floor, there’s nothing quite like a day of roller skating; not only is it old-fashioned fun, it’s also great exercise. The family-owned Lynden Skateway was rebuilt in February 1996 after the old Lynden Skateway and Bowl burned down in 1994.
Lynden Skateway, 421 Judson St., Lynden
Details: 360-354-3851, lyndenskateway.com
Snow fun at Mount Baker
Just a little more than an hour away, scenic Mount Baker offers skiers and snowboarders the thrills of the snow-filled season. Lessons on skiing and mountain safety are available at the ski area as well.
Details: 360-734-6117; snow line: 360-671-0211, mtbaker.us.
Kids and teens play programs
Bellingham Parks and Recreation Department sponsors a wealth of activities to keep youngsters happy through the “bad weather” months. Scheduled programs, as well as numerous special activities and classes, offer creative and active programs for infants through teens. Pick up a copy of the fall Leisure Guide at the parks office, 3424 Meridian St., in Cornwall Park.
Details: 360-778-7000, cob.org/services/department/parks.
Ice skating
Lace up some skates and enjoy the ice. Admission is cheaper than a movie, and food and beverages are available at the snack bar.
Sportsplex, 1225 Civic Field Way, Bellingham.
Directions: From Lakeway Drive, turn north on Orleans Street to the parking lot.
Details: 360-676-1919, bellinghamsportsplex.com
Wooded trails
Whatcom County homesteaders Hans and Lida Berthusen left a legacy for generations – 20 acres of well-kept old-growth forest now home to picnic areas, overnight camping, and miles of flat, wooded trails for walking or mountain biking near Lynden. There’s also huge barn on the property and covered shelters available for group reservations.
Berthusen Park, 8837 Berthusen Road, is open year-round, dawn to dusk.
Details: lyndenwa.org/departments/parks/berthusen-park.
Indoor swimming
Pool play, lessons and rentals are offered at Arne Hanna Aquatic Center, 1114 Potter St., Bellingham.
Details: 360-778-7665, cob.org/services/recreation/aquatic.
This story was originally published November 22, 2015 at 4:01 PM with the headline "Winter time is play time, indoors or out in Whatcom County."