The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Larrabee State Park
4.8
(118)
1,929
hikers
77
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Larrabee State Park offer a unique blend of coastal beauty and mountain wilderness where the Cascade Mountains meet the Salish Sea. The park's diverse terrain features dense forests with old-growth trees, picturesque freshwater lakes, and dramatic sandstone formations along its saltwater shoreline. Hikers can explore a network of trails that wind through varied landscapes, from serene lake loops to paths offering panoramic views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands.
Best family friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
13
hikers
8.68km
02:51
380m
380m
Hike the moderate 5.4-mile Rock Trail to Lost Lake Loop in Larrabee State Park, featuring steep climbs, sandstone cliffs, and serene lake vi
3
hikers
20.8km
06:29
750m
740m
Hike the difficult 12.9-mile Lost Lake and Ridge Trail Loop in Chuckanut Mountain Park, featuring lake views and the Cyrus Gates Overlook.
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5.0
(3)
123
hikers
6.63km
02:10
300m
300m
Hike the Fragrance Lake Trail, a moderate 4.1-mile loop in Larrabee State Park with forest, lake, and San Juan Islands views.
5.0
(2)
50
hikers
8.31km
02:58
490m
490m
Hike to Pine and Cedar Lakes in Chuckanut Mountain Park, a moderate 5.2-mile route with 1595 feet of elevation gain through lush forest.
4.8
(4)
30
hikers
7.63km
02:30
360m
360m
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Fragrance Lake Loop in Larrabee State Park, featuring old-growth forest, lake views, and a Samish Bay overlook.
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Tips from the Community
Cyrus Gates Overlook is an overlook at the end of a 3.5-mile gravel road. There's a huge collection of stairs that descend to Lost Lake from the overlook if you want to lock up your bike and check out the lake.
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Runners will discover calm, enchanting Lost Lake tucked amid Chuckanut Mountain and encircled by evergreens. Circling the tranquil shallow waters also offers sights of a picturesque waterfall flowing from the lake's outlet. Lost Lake makes for a rejuvenating run enveloped in lush Pacific Northwest.
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Cyrus Gates Overlook, located in Larrabee State Park overlooks Chuckanut bay in the near distance, and on a clear day you can see the shores of Canada!
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Fragrance Lake is a fairly small lake surrounded by forest. You can swim in the lake on a hot day, or find a stick and let your dog go wild!
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Fragrance Lake is part of Larrabee State Park, which became Washington’s first state park after a 20-acre parcel of land was donated by the Larrabee family in 1915. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, but there are a few clearings to have a snack and appreciate the stillness.
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Pine Lake is one of two lowland mountain lakes in the Pine Lake Wildlife Area. It offers year-round fishing, as well as camping opportunities. Pine Lake also has a little island, which you can access via a network of boardwalks.
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The trail signs are sometimes confusing, but the hike through the forest and around the lake is beautiful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Larrabee State Park?
Larrabee State Park offers a wide variety of trails suitable for families. Our guide features nearly 80 routes, with over 40 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for family outings.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families in Larrabee State Park?
Yes, Larrabee State Park has several excellent loop trails that are great for families. A popular choice is the Fragrance Lake Loop, which takes you around the picturesque Fragrance Lake, offering beautiful forest scenery.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints we can see on family hikes?
Many trails in Larrabee State Park offer stunning views and natural beauty. You can enjoy panoramic vistas of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands from spots like the Cyrus Gates Overlook. The park also features two freshwater lakes, Fragrance Lake and Lost Lake, which are central to many routes. The coastline along Samish Bay also offers unique sandstone formations and tide pools at low tide.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Larrabee State Park?
Yes, Larrabee State Park is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on most trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Always remember to pack out any waste to keep the park clean for everyone.
What is the best time of year to visit Larrabee State Park for family hiking?
Larrabee State Park is beautiful year-round, but for family hiking, late spring through early fall (May to October) often provides the most pleasant weather. During these months, trails are typically drier, and the temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities. However, the lush Pacific Northwest greenery makes for enjoyable hikes even in milder, wetter seasons.
Are there any stroller-friendly trails in Larrabee State Park?
While many trails in Larrabee State Park involve varied terrain and elevation changes, some sections of the historic Chuckanut Interurban Trail might be suitable for sturdy strollers, especially the flatter portions. For specific stroller accessibility, it's always best to check recent trail conditions or choose routes explicitly marked as accessible.
Where can we park when visiting Larrabee State Park for family hikes?
Larrabee State Park offers several parking areas. The main park entrance off Chuckanut Drive provides access to many trailheads. There are also specific parking lots for popular trails like the Fragrance Lake Trail. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Larrabee State Park?
The trails in Larrabee State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from dense forests and serene lakes to stunning coastal views, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.
Can we reach Larrabee State Park using public transportation?
While Larrabee State Park is primarily accessed by car, some local bus routes may have stops along Chuckanut Drive, which runs adjacent to the park. However, direct public transport to specific trailheads within the park can be limited. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near Larrabee State Park for a post-hike meal?
Larrabee State Park itself does not have cafes or restaurants. However, due to its location along scenic Chuckanut Drive, you'll find dining options in nearby Bellingham to the north or Bow/Edison to the south, offering a variety of choices for a meal or snack after your family hike.
What kind of wildlife might we encounter on family hikes?
Larrabee State Park is home to diverse wildlife. On your family hikes, you might spot various bird species, including raptors, especially near viewpoints like Raptor Ridge Lookout. Deer, squirrels, and other small mammals are also common in the forested areas. Along the coastline, tide pools reveal marine life at low tide.
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