The best cycling routes in Whatcom County

Whatcom County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with nearly 100 options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 34 easy, 36 moderate, and 25 difficult trails.

For an easy and scenic ride, consider the Railroad Trail, which follows an old railbed for a gentle journey through varied scenery. Another excellent choice is the North Lake Whatcom Trail, offering serene waterside views. The South Bay Trail also provides an easy ride with beautiful waterfront views of Bellingham Bay.

Yes, Whatcom County features several challenging routes with notable elevation changes. The Arroyo Nature Reserve loop via US Bike Route 97, for instance, includes over 870 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Lost Lake and Interurban Trail Loop, which features over 570 meters of climbing.

For stunning coastal vistas, the Interurban Trail Loop connects Fairhaven with Larrabee State Park, providing ocean views and glimpses of the San Juan Islands. The Chuckanut Drive and Interurban Trail Loop also offers breathtaking coastal scenery as it winds along the shoreline.

Absolutely. The Whatcom Falls Park loop is a picturesque route that takes you through the park, known for its dreamy waterfalls, mossy bridges, and lush forested trails. For lake views, the Lake Squires via US Bicycle Route 97 offers a ride with beautiful lakeside scenery.

The touring cycling routes in Whatcom County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 36 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to forested trails, and the well-maintained network that caters to all skill levels. Many appreciate the stunning views of Bellingham Bay, Lake Whatcom, and distant mountains like Mount Baker.

Yes, many routes in Whatcom County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Interurban Trail Loop and the Whatcom Falls Park loop, both providing a complete circular experience.

Whatcom County's touring cycling routes showcase a rich variety of natural features. You'll encounter coastal areas with views of the Salish Sea and San Juan Islands, serene lake shores like Lake Whatcom, and lush forested trails. Many routes also offer distant views of mountainous terrain, including Mount Baker and the Canadian Cascades.

Beyond the trails themselves, Whatcom County offers several points of interest. You can explore the Chuckanut Interurban Trail, which is a highlight in itself, or visit Artist Point for breathtaking mountain views. The Trail of the Cedars Bridge is another notable landmark, offering a unique natural experience.

The diverse landscapes of Whatcom County make it enjoyable for touring cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for coastal and lake rides, while autumn provides stunning foliage, especially in forested areas like Stimpson Family Nature Reserve. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, the region continues to expand its trail offerings. The Olsen Creek Trail System, for example, is a newly opened system that provides over seven miles of trails with breathtaking views of Lake Whatcom, Bellingham Bay, and the Canadian Cascades. More information can be found on the Washington State Department of Natural Resources website.