1
hikers
01:19
5.06km
30m
Hiking
Hike the easy 3.1-mile North Lake Whatcom Trail for constant lake views, lush forests, and charming bridges in Lake Whatcom Park.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.05 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.93 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Tuesday 26 May
15°C
8°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
You can find parking at the official trailhead for the North Lake Whatcom Trail, also known as the Hertz Trail. It's located along the shores of Lake Whatcom in Bellingham, Washington.
Yes, absolutely! This is widely considered an easy and gentle trail, making it perfect for families with children and those new to hiking. Its largely flat, former railway grade contributes to its accessibility.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail! Just remember to keep them on a leash to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone and to protect the local wildlife.
The trail is beautiful year-round, but it's especially lovely in spring, summer, and fall when the lush forest is vibrant. The area is known for being verdant, with ferns growing from tree trunks, offering picturesque scenery.
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the North Lake Whatcom Trail, as it is part of the publicly accessible Lake Whatcom Park.
The trail primarily follows a former railway grade, so it's largely flat with a mild grade and minimal obstacles. You'll encounter mixed surfaces, including some gravel paths. While mostly flat, there can be some small, uneven sections.
You'll enjoy constant, picturesque views of Lake Whatcom. The trail also winds through a lush forest with large Douglas fir, cedar, maple, and Madrone trees. Keep an eye out for numerous charming waterfalls and bridges.
The North Lake Whatcom Trail is an out-and-back route. It concludes after approximately 3.2 miles against fenced private property, requiring you to retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
Yes, while primarily known as the North Lake Whatcom Trail, this route also passes through sections of the North Lake Whatcom Trail and the Chanterelle Connector Trail.
As part of Lake Whatcom Park, general park rules apply. This includes keeping dogs on leash, packing out all trash, and staying on marked trails to protect the natural environment. There are no specific entrance fees for this section of the park.
Yes, the trail is well-marked, with clear indicators at each half-mile, which can be helpful for tracking your progress during your hike or run.