You don’t have to get out of the car to see some amazing sights, thanks to three officials scenic byways in the area! If you do want to hike, these drives also happen to take you to some amazing trailheads.
• Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway - Hugging the shoreline just south of Bellingham, Chuckanut Drive is Washington State's original scenic byway. Shown on maps as WA State Highway 11, the route begins at I-5 exit 231 in Burlington and continues 20 miles north to Bellingham.
○ Hike 1 - Fragrance Lake Trail: This popular trail is relatively steep but takes you to the lake and there is a nice overlook at 9/10 of a mile. Access to the train begins across from the Larrabee State Park entrance, where paid parking is also available.
○ Hike 2 - Oyster Dome: There is a network of trails on the southern part of the Chuckanut Mountains. The Dome trail starts on Chuckanut Drive, a few miles south of Larrabee State Park. Known for spectacular views and boulder fields.
○ Hike 3 - Chuckanut Ridge Trail: This trail meanders along the Chuckanut Mountain ridge, offering picturesque views of Mt. Baker in the east and the lower British Columbia mountains to the north. Endless scenery will keep your eyes actively gazing for miles.
• Mt. Baker Scenic Byway - Mount Baker Highway is State Route 542, stretching from east Bellingham toward snow-capped Mt. Baker. Within the first five miles, Bellingham’s urban feel gives way to rolling farmland and alpine vistas. In the summer months, the highway ends at milepost 58 in a parking lot for Artist Point. Stretch your legs and check out spectacular views of Mt. Baker’s 10,781-foot peak. In the winter months, the road ends at the Mount Baker Ski Area (milepost 55) - holder of the world record for snowfall in a single season and birthplace of snowboarding.
○ Hike 1 – Artist Ridge: This self-guided interpretive trail takes you to overlooks with great views of Mt. Baker and other peaks. The trail begins on the east side of the parking lot at Artist Point.
○ Hike 2 – Yellow Aster Butte: This trail travels through parklands, rock gardens, views of summits, streams, and meadowlands. At the summit of the butte enjoy the full panorama. Drive to milepost 46.2 and turn left on Twin Lakes Rd.
• Cascade Loop Scenic Byway - While this epic drive passes through many other areas of Washington State, the northern section, which starts south of Bellingham in Skagit County, is perfect for a day drive. Be prepared to witness stunning alpine lake views at Ross and Diablo lakes.
• North Cascades National Park: Stop here at the visitor center for the park and find recommendations for great hikes and other explorations in the area.
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