The best cycling routes around Bellingham

There are over 60 touring cycling routes around Bellingham, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 25 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 14 difficult routes, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

Bellingham's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, from coastal paths along the Salish Sea to forested trails and routes with dramatic mountain vistas. You'll find gentle grades on old railway beds, such as the Railroad Trail, as well as challenging climbs with significant elevation gain in areas like the Chuckanut Mountains.

Yes, Bellingham offers several family-friendly options. Routes built on old railway beds, like the Railroad Trail along Lake Whatcom, typically feature gentle grades and are suitable for families. The South Bay Trail also offers easy, multi-use paths with views of Bellingham Bay, connecting downtown to the Fairhaven Historic District.

Many routes offer stunning views and access to natural attractions. You can find coastal views along the Salish Sea, especially from routes near the Chuckanut Mountains. Highlights like the Oyster Dome Overlook and Samish Overlook provide expansive vistas. You can also cycle past beautiful lakes such as Pine Lake and Lizard Lake, or through forested areas like the Arroyo Nature Reserve.

Yes, Bellingham features several excellent circular routes. A popular option is the Interurban Trail Loop, which is a moderate 12.9-mile (20.8 km) ride through varied scenery. For a more challenging experience, consider the Chuckanut Drive and Interurban Trail Loop, a difficult 27.1-mile (43.6 km) route with significant elevation gain.

The touring cycling routes in Bellingham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from stunning coastal views to lush forests, and the well-maintained trail networks that cater to various skill levels.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Chuckanut Drive and Interurban Trail Loop offer significant elevation gain and demanding terrain through the Chuckanut Mountains. Another difficult option is the Arroyo Nature Reserve loop via US Bike Route 97, which also features substantial climbs.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Bellingham area provide sweeping views of rural farmlands with Mount Baker and the Twin Sisters Mountain in the distance. While not directly on the mountain, these routes offer a dramatic backdrop of the North Cascades.

Bellingham offers great cycling opportunities throughout much of the year. The spring and fall often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though some routes might be busier. While winter can be wet, some lower elevation trails remain accessible, offering a different kind of scenic experience.

Yes, Bellingham has several multi-use trails constructed on old railway lines, which typically offer gentle grades and scenic views. The Railroad Trail along Lake Whatcom is a prime example, as is the South Bay Trail, which follows an old railway along Bellingham Bay.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several landmarks. The Chuckanut Drive itself is Washington State's original scenic byway, offering historical significance alongside its views. The Fairhaven Historic District, accessible via the South Bay Trail, is a charming area with shops and restaurants. Whatcom Falls Park, with its iconic waterfall and stone bridge, is also a local favorite easily reachable from some routes.

Bellingham is very bike-friendly, with an extensive system of multi-use trails and bike-friendly roads. This includes dedicated paths like the Interurban Trail and Railroad Trail, as well as scenic rural roads in Whatcom County. The city also supports cycling with resources like local guides and bike rental options, and even features a Waterfront Pump Track downtown.