Lake Whatcom Park

UPDATE: 
Lake Whatcom Park and a portion of the Hertz Trail has reopened. Hertz Trail remains closed from approximately mile 1.7. Please do not go past any trail closed signs in place for public safety. https://wa-whatcomcounty.civicplus.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3979
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A Large Natural Park on Lake Whatcom's Eastern Shore

Enjoy views of Lake Whatcom, the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and giant old Douglas Fir trees. Lake Whatcom Park gives visitors the opportunity to stroll by the lake and walk through a lush forest. The interpretive kiosk, located at the lakeshore, tells the story of Lake Whatcom and its significance to our community.

Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve & Lake Whatcom Park Recreational Trail Plan 

  1. Trails

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Lake Whatcom Temporary Trails Map icon 160x124 Opens in new window

Hertz Trail

The Hertz Trail is an easy hike or bike along the shore of Lake Whatcom on the grade of the former Bellingham & Eastern Railway. The trail begins with a gradual slope through a lush forest to the interpretive kiosk at the lakeshore. The trail then follows the railroad grade south for 2.9 miles. Enjoy views of Lake Whatcom and Lookout Mountain. Keep an eye out for waterfalls and remnant patches of old-growth along the hillside or visit one of the many beautiful beaches and coves tucked away along this trail.

From Parking Area 1: Continue past the gate at the eastern end of the parking lot. 3.0 miles one way to the trail end.

From Parking Area 2:  Choose either of the two connector trails on the southern side of the parking lot. 0.2 miles one way to the junction with Hertz Trail. 2.9 miles one way to the trail end.

Easy, 3.1 miles one way
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Chanterelle Trail

The Chanterelle Trail ascends 2,200 feet in 5 miles through a mix of forest types. The scenic Chanterelle Overlook is located 2.4 miles from the trailhead.

The first 0.6 miles of the trail is shared hiking and biking. The remaining 4.4 miles of trail is open to two way foot traffic and uphill only bike travel. Until the Brown Pow Trail is completed, bikes return to the trailhead via the forest road (Wickersham Truck Road).

From Parking Area 2:  From the trailhead it's 2.4 miles one way to the Chanterelle Overlook and 5 miles one way to the trail terminus.

Moderate, 5.0 miles one way
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