Hertz Trail: A walk through the woods, along Lake Whatcom

On sunny warm days, the Hertz Trail at North Lake Whatcom Park is packed with people, including sunbathers and swimmers. But it’s not as busy during the fall and winter, so it’s a perfect time for a peaceful amble, ride or run along the well-maintained trail.

Difficulty: Easy, with just 100 feet of elevation gain.

Round trip: 6.2 miles.

Users: Pedestrians, dogs, bicyclists. The first quarter-mile of the trail is accessible to wheelchairs.

Why you’ll like it: Soon after its starts, the trail runs along the eastern shore of Lake Whatcom and provides lovely views of the hills to the south. On the other side are sandstone cliffs, some large Douglas firs, and two small creeks with scenic waterfalls.

You’ll get a chance to enjoy the woods and waterfront, all in one outing, snuggled as the trail sits between the lake and Stewart Mountain.

Look for the interpretive kiosk, once you get through the woods and reach the lake, to learn about Lake Whatcom, the drinking-water source for about half of Whatcom County’s residents.

The trail, from the interpretive kiosk on, follows the railroad grade of the Bellingham and Eastern Railway along the shore of the lake.

In 2014, the Whatcom County Parks and Recreation Department replaced two worn-out wooden bridges on the trail with two new covered ones, both of which have a look that’s a nod to the area’s railroading history.

The new bridges are 1 mile and 1.75 miles down the trail, respectively. Enjoy the waterfall view at the first bridge.

Trail treat: Sometimes, going to the Hertz Trail is actually about stopping at The Fork at Agate Bay afterward for breakfast or a snack (beer and garlic truffle fries, anyone?).

You should know: Parking is free, and there are pit toilets.

Getting there: Follow North Shore Drive around the north end of Lake Whatcom past Agate Bay and across the bridge at Smith Creek. The route will turn into Northshore Road. Turn left (if coming from Bellingham) at the North Lake Whatcom Park sign. Follow the road and then park at the well-marked trailhead at the end of the road in the main parking area.

This story was originally published November 12, 2015 at 3:02 AM with the headline "Hertz Trail: A walk through the woods, along Lake Whatcom."