Articles & Coverage

Rock band ZZ Top will headline the Northwest Washington Fair this summer in Lynden. The band was formed in Houston, Texas, in 1969 and is known for hits such as ‘Sharp Dressed Man’ and ‘Gimme All Your Lovin.’”

Nestled in the heart of downtown Bellingham, the Pickford Film Center is more than just a movie theater—it's a vital part of the local film community. This independent cinema goes beyond the typical moviegoing experience, offering a home for cinephiles, independent filmmakers, and students alike. 

Located near the Canadian border, Bellingham is a northwestern coastal city about 90 miles north of Seattle. Outdoor recreation and laid-back vibes are everywhere here—access to the San Juan Islands and North Cascades National Park included.

Want to find some of the best mountain views in the United States? Look no further than North Cascades National Park, a rarely visited destination near Washington's Canadian border. This park is bursting with mountains that will beg you to climb them and waterfalls that will make you gasp in amazement.

North Cascades is home to more than 300 glaciers, more than 400 miles of official trails, and more than 500 lakes. As you take in alpine splendor from craggy ridgelines or watch mountain goats amble through mountain meadows, you’ll at times feel like you’re in the Alps.

More a section of downtown than a strictly-defined arts district, the northwest part of downtown Bellingham features the city’s main arts-related attractions. The area is home to what’s arguably the city’s primary performance venue, the Mount Baker Theatre, along with the Pickford Film Center.

Mt. Baker’s annual snowfall totals are almost hard to believe. The Washington ski area sees 688 inches of snowfall on average, but during the 1998-99 season, 1,140 inches of snow fell on the mountain.

Peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers tower over this alpine landscape that sees a fraction of the visitors of Washington’s other national parks — Mount Rainier and Olympic. While the park itself is sparsely visited, two bordering National Recreation Areas — Ross Lake and Lake Chelan — mean visitation to the combined three-unit North Cascades complex is much higher.

USA Today held a competition to find the best 10 brewpubs across the United States, and one of Bellingham’s breweries made the list. Otherlands Beer, a brewery and cafe in Bellingham, ranked seventh in the national competition after being nominated by a panel of beer experts and receiving votes online.

Chuckanut Drive, Washington’s first scenic byway—constructed in 1896 and opened to vehicle traffic in 1912—offers a breathtaking coastline journey. Stretching about 21 miles between Skagit Valley and Bellingham, this historic route winds through lush forests and hugs dramatic cliffs overlooking the waters of Puget Sound. T

Known for its high peaks, glaciers, and the beautiful Skagit River Valley, North Cascades National Park is unusual because it consists almost entirely of rugged backcountry wilderness.

Coming back to the Lower 48, the Pacific Northwest is leading the pack, with Washington’s Mt. Baker enjoying a great winter so far. The ski area had a particularly great early season, especially November and December, when almost 250 inches fell.

Asked which national park he considers the most underrated, Ian pointed to North Cascades National Park in Washington state. He added that he has no idea why it is among the least visited parks. "The mountain scenery is breathtaking—there are bright green lakes, jagged mountain peaks, woods. I mean, it has it all and hardly anyone goes."

Sahale Glacier Camp is a remote backcountry site surrounded by the best of North Cascades National Park: high-elevation peaks, dramatic ridgelines, and the immense expanse of the Sahale Glacier itself.

You’ll be thrilled to hear that Bellingham, Washington, has been named one of the top 10 destinations for an active getaway. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, this charming city is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and small-town charm, all within a manageable drive from the Tri-Cities.

Securing the slots for the second and third most affordable ski resorts in America are, respectively, Mount Baker in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington ($200.92 per day per person) and Whitefish Mountain Resort near Whitefish, Montana ($223.02 per day per person).

Snuggled in the very top corner of Washington, Whatcom County delivers all the romance. Think charming, Dutch-inspired towns and bustling waterfront cities, the perfect balance of tranquility and excitement.

On a separate ranking of "The Most Affordable U.S. Resorts for Ski Vacations in 2024/25," the cheapest spot in the West was Washington State's Mount Baker Ski Area, where full-day lift tickets cost just under $100 at $94.27. Researchers praised the Cascade Range locale as "a hidden gem boasting some of North America’s deepest snow and expansive backcountry terrain."

Bikes, beer, music, races, demos, skills classes, swag, camping, bonfires, food trucks, and general shenanigans: 2025 has a packed line up of mountain bike festivals around the country.

It hasn’t been much of an epic ski/snowboard season across the United States (at least not yet), but that doesn’t mean every ski area has seen an entire season of low tide. In fact, eight ski resorts across the U.S. have already seen over 250 inches of snowfall, right around 20.8 feet.

Exploring the Washington National Parks is one of the most unique trips anyone can take. From lush rainforests to a 14,000-foot volcano to jagged peaks and alpine lakes, Washington’s landscape has it all.

If you've ever dreamed of exploring pristine glacial lakes, or hiking on miles of mountain trails without seeing another soul, North Cascades National Park is the perfect place to plan a trip. According to the National Park Service, the North Cascades, " rank as some of the country's wildest, most rugged, and beautiful mountains outside of Alaska."

Solo travelers with a passion for outdoorsy activities are likely to find plenty to do in Bellingham, a medium-sized outdoorsy town not far from the Canadian border. The city’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to explore the downtown area’s quirky bookshops, trendy coffee shops, and open-air breweries.

This family-owned brewery and café in Bellingham, Washington, offers rustic lagers, farmhouse ales, and modern American pale ales. The café serves a seasonal menu of European-inspired street foods, such as Belgian-style fries, pierogis, and latkes. Otherlands welcomes guests of all ages and offers a dog-friendly patio.

The Mount Baker Scenic Byway — or State Route 542 —  is a 57-mile-long road crossing some of Washington's most stunning landscapes. Starting in Bellingham, an underrated and charming city near Seattle, 

Mt. Baker Ski Area is often characterized by things like its epic annual snowfall (641 inches a year!), complex terrain, and stunning views, all of which make it a worthy stop or destination on its own. Although pieces of the mountain’s history are widely known, Mt. Baker is far less often known for its roots in the history of snowsports.

Mt. Ranier has a lot to compete with, which is why this park doesn't get all the attention it should. It's a sprawling forest with tall peaks, the highest waterfall in the continental U.S., and dazzling glacial beauty.

If you're looking for an adventure to further immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest's beauty, traverse Chuckanut Drive. Also referred to as Highway 11, this 21-mile byway dates back to 1916 and can be found between Seattle and Bellingham, an underrated charmer on Washington's coast.

North Cascades might be close enough to Seattle for a day trip, but this landscape is a world removed from the bustling city, with high alpine terrain full of evergreen forests, craggy peaks, backcountry lakes, and more than 300 glaciers–the largest collection in any park outside of Alaska.

Mount Baker Ski Resort

Extraordinary views and an average of 17 metres of seasonal snow make it the largest and most popular ski destination in the Pacific Northwest, attracting visitors from nearby Bellingham, Seattle, and B.C.’s Lower Mainland.

Semiahmoo Resort

The rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest meets a high-end resort vibe at Semiahmoo, where your furry friends are invited to enjoy a beachside retreat.

Seattle may be a host city for the FIFA World Cup 26, but it’s not taking the spotlight alone. In addition to a Seattle fan zone at Seattle Center, Bellingham, Everett, Bremerton, Tacoma, Olympia / North Lacey, Yakima, the Tri-Cities of Pasco, Richland and Kennewick, Spokane, and Vancouver will all host fan zones.

Forget the long, crowded ferry lines and hit the road for a coastal experience of a different kind. For the discerning traveler seeking an escape from the ordinary, Point Roberts, Washington beckons.

Winter Backcountry Skills Course, Mount Baker, Wash.

This four- or six-day winter backcountry skills course with the American Alpine Institute is held on various dates throughout the season. 

Adventure and nature enthusiasts can explore the North Cascades National Park in Washington State without paying any entry fee. In this majestic neck of the woods, you will find everything from stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and rocky Alpine terrain to glaciers and beautiful glacier-fed lakes.

Bellingham and its surroundings are gems of the Pacific Northwest. Here you’ll find picturesque coastal views, verdant forests and abundant nature, outdoor adventure, a vibrant arts scene, historical attractions, and plenty of good food.

Lummi Island, Washington 

It takes about 10 minutes by ferry to arrive at this bucolic Puget Sound island, which sits just northeast of the increasingly trendy San Juan Islands chain. 

Mt. Baker Ski Area 

Visitors who have yet to check out the destination will be pleased to know it offers everything you need for a day on the slopes: coffee shops, restaurants and yurts, steep slopes, terrain parks, and over 1,000 acres to shred.

There are many national parks in the United States that can accurately be described as "underrated." But title of most underrated American national park almost certainly belongs to the outstanding North Cascades National Park of northern Washington.

Straight out of a storybook — that’s what we see when looking at Logshire, a kid-friendly winter cabin in Glacier. About three hours from Seattle, this cabin sleeps four and offers a hot tub, EV charger, and a complete work-from-home setup if parents need to log some hours.

The Bellingham Bells have announced that the West Coast League All-Star Game will be hosted at Joe Martin Field in the summer of 2025.

Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism in Washington has formed the Bellingham Whatcom County Sports Alliance as a way to further market the area’s sports and outdoor recreation opportunities beyond the local market.

Matador Network named Bellingham the best adventure destination of 2024 when it released its year-end travel awards in early December. Bellingham won the award over 13 other finalists, who were picked by Matador Network staff.

Adventure probably isn’t the first word you’d associate with subdued excitement. But according to travel outlet Matador Network, the City of Subdued Excitement is also the best place to go for an adventure.

North Cascades National Park is located close to Canada’s border and less than 3 hours from Seattle. It was named after the North Cascades mountains, a part of the Cascade Range extending from Northern California into British Columbia.

The Adventure Destination Award went to Bellingham, Washington, a place that is truly a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its breathtaking views, incredible hiking trails, and access to both the mountains and the sea, Bellingham is a haven for those who love to explore nature on foot, two wheels, or even by boat.

The 10 winners of the 2024 Matador Network Travel Awards were announced by the leading travel publisher. Half the honorees were nominated and chosen by the in-house team of Matador world-travel experts who developed points-based ranking criteria.

Published on December 10, 2024, the Google Year in Search report ranks the top “trending” searches from this year, meaning the queries that had a high spike in traffic over a sustained period in 2024 compared to 2023.

Bellingham’s laid-back vibe and historic charm make it worth the 90-minute drive north of Seattle. Explore the Fairhaven Historic District with its brick streets, unique shops and cozy cafes.

Located near Bellingham, Mt. Baker is a well-known winter destination, with an abundant snowfall, challenging terrain, and laid-back atmosphere

Bellingham, just 20 miles from the Canada border, is perhaps the best place to see it all in one place, from some of the best West Coast beach camping to trails, water sports, and snow sports.

We visit Bellingham often and it was a smooth ride for both myself and Lawrence as we started the day at Cof& which specializes in Colombian coffee. I had the Capuchino Gold while Lawrence had an Americano and we relaxed in this popular local favourite and listened to some live Latin music.

It appears that Taylormania crosses borders, including the one between Washington and BC, as made evident by conversations Bellingham residents are having in anticipation of a wild Vancouver weekend involving Taylor Swift coming to town.

The final weekend of Taylor Swift's Eras tour kicks off in Vancouver, BC this weekend. Thousands opted to drive through Whatcom County to get there, and businesses are already seeing the impact.

Turns out you don’t have travel far to get to one of the 50 best places to visit in the world. Online travel publication Travel Lemming released its list of the best places in the world to visit and Bellingham came in at number 43.

Because last-minute rebookings near BC Place are highly inflated due to increased demand, many concertgoers are pivoting their plans instead and opting to drive back over the border into the northwesternmost communities of Washington just to rest their heads on the night of the show.

The most affordable destinations are a bit more widely dispersed, geographically: three are located in Montana, one in Washington State and another in Pennsylvania.  

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour will conclude its international run with three shows this month in Vancouver, B.C., just an hour from Bellingham.

The team of travel experts at Travel Lemming pride themselves on basing their recommendations on real-life travel experiences (side-eye to AI travel planning tools). The team has just released its annual list of the 50 best places to travel in 2025, a list that spans the globe.  

Northern Washington’s largest city is defined by its youthful culture, historic district, and outdoor escapes. Explore an active volcano, a secluded island, and a mountainous national park.

Located in the Pacific Northwest, the North Cascades National Park is an underrated gem in the heart of Washington state, and an ideal dupe for the Dolomites without stamping your passport.

Chuckanut Bay Distillery of Bellingham, Washington, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newly renovated ballroom event space located in the heart of downtown Bellingham.  

Point Roberts isn’t the only U.S. pene-exclave along the 49th parallel. In north Minnesota, a 120-square-mile speck of land dubbed the “Northwest Angle” is separated from the rest of the state by the Lake of the Woods.

Overall, the study found that Mount Baker, which HomeToGo calls a “hidden gem,” had an average daily cost of $200.92. That was just $5.90 behind Gore Mountain in New York, which took the top spot on the list.

Mount Baker, in Washington, has a Wicked Wednesday deal, charging  $73 (down from $94 on a standard day) or $44 if you only plan to ski the beginner terrain.

While North Cascades National Park doesn't get nearly the same visitation numbers as nearby parks like Mount Rainier and Olympic, it easily matches them in every single category when it comes to natural beauty.

Just over the border in the U.S., some hotels in Bellingham, Lynden and Point Roberts are priced between $100 and $300 per night, according to their websites.

We are proud to present "Blue Ribbon", a public trail built on Galbraith Mountain in Bellingham, WA. It was nearly four years in the making and opened just this year! We set out to build a trail to uplift new riders, and entertain seasoned ones.  

After serving as an air force base in the 1940’s, Bellingham International Airport (BLI) today offers simple, convenient access to low-cost flights to travellers in Washington State.  

It’s no secret that an assortment of national forests, trail heads and mountains surround Western Washington University for members of the community to enjoy. For these Bellinghamsters though, some spots stand out among the rest.

It's not a shocking addition to this list, but in my eyes, this is one of the best places to live/visit in the USA if you are a fan of mountain bikes. Galbraith is the local mountain situated right outside of town. Galbraith is home to some incredibly recognizable trails and a healthy community of builders who keep them going.

The annual Ski Season Report also found Gore Mountain, New York, to be the most affordable ski destination this winter, with a total daily cost of $195.02 per person, including lift tickets and accommodation. Mount Baker, Washington, and Whitefish, Montana, follow at $200.92 and $223.02 per person per day, respectively.

More than 20 years of work to clean up Bellingham Bay is paying off, with the opening of new affordable housing, parks and other redevelopment on land previously contaminated by heavy industry.

Right over the border this is the perfect escape for Vancouverites not wanting to go too far from home. Their annual Winterfest runs from late November to the end of December and has horse-drawn carriage rides, Christmas markets, and of course stunning festive decor.

In brewery-centric Bellingham, one beer maker has traditionally set aside an evening for a very non-traditional pairing exercise. Structures Brewing has teamed up with Matt Mini, the owner of Funky’s to take tasters on a wild journey through all 10 pepper sauces featured on Season 24 of Hot Ones.  

North Cascades National Park 

What stands out are the towering larch trees, bursting in shades of gold, as you pass by the Maple Pass Loop or Blue Lake.

The city of Bellingham is moving forward with construction on two beach areas at Boulevard Park that aim to improve public access and address climate impacts. The restoration area includes the shoreline south of the Woods Coffee, according to a map in city documents.

Brimming with historic charm, quirky shops and restaurants, and enchanting outdoor playgrounds, Bellingham is the perfect addition to your Washington vacation. 

Hotel Bellwether promises an indulgent waterfront stay with classic rooms and suites featuring breath-taking views over Bellingham Bay, north of Seattle. Flexible accommodation options are well-suited to families, pets are welcome, and there's a small spa.

A relaxed waterfront community to the north of Seattle, Bellingham is a brilliant pick for an outdoorsy holiday. The city is famously liberal and laid-back, with cafés and brewpubs aplenty, as well as an appealing focus on its natural wonder

In the case of Point Roberts, Washington, one of the most beautiful towns on the United States and Canada border, there are many fun things to do during your stay.

The Pacific Northwest may be known for its towering evergreens, but color-changing species live there, too, and their October splendor dazzles riders on the two-hour trip between Seattle and Bellingham, Wash., on the Amtrak Cascades route.

The Pacific Northwest may be known for its towering evergreens, but color-changing species live there, too, and their October splendor dazzles riders on the two-hour trip between Seattle and Bellingham on the Amtrak Cascades route.

North Cascades National Park on the Canadian border in Washington State is known as the American Alps, offering more than waterfalls, high peaks, and dramatic, snow-tipped mountains. It’s also home to more than 500 lakes and ponds—some of which you can boat in.

Point Roberts is a geographic oddity, an American town cut off from the rest of the United States. Accessible only by driving through Canada, this unusual situation arose because of the location of the international border.

North Cascades National Park

It is one of the most beautiful national parks with snowcapped mountains, hundreds of glaciers, clear lakes, and rugged peaks. It is a perfect place to hike, backpack, boat, camp, fish, swim, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and drive. 

North Cascades National Park is an affordable national park with free entry, cheap activities, and convenient access from Seattle. The park boasts an alpine setting full of majestic mountain ranges, abundant wildlife, and magnificent waterfalls.

To explore this area, you’ll want to take a drive on State Route 542, also known as Mount Baker Highway. This is one of the best scenic drives in Washington and it leads you to one of the most iconic and beautiful destinations — Artist Point.

Bellingham’s waterfront was a once mighty industrial hub, however, recent decades have seen the city undergo a massive gentrification process, turning Bellingham’s once-forgotten neighbourhoods into tourist hubs filled with art galleries and trendy cafes.

If you enjoy beer and bikes, you’re going to want to visit Bellingham. It’s an energetic college town minutes from the Canadian border that’s bursting with craft breweries and bike-friendly trails

More and more guests are seeking unique and authentic experiences that stand apart from well-known tourist destinations. This fall, we're seeing strong bookings to small destinations, such as Bellingham, Missoula and Santa Rosa.

The air is crisp, and the leaves are bursting into vivid hues. Maybe you're planning a road trip to admire the beauty. But getting your fill of fall foliage from behind the wheel can turn into an awkward juggle between admiring the vistas and navigating traffic.

With a population hovering above 90,000, Bellingham embraces its unofficial motto as the “City of Subdued Excitement”—an accurate reflection of its hidden-gem status when it comes to arts, music, and an evolving culinary scene.

Bellewood Farms sits between two quaint places: Lynden and Bellingham. Lynden is known for its Dutch heritage, pieces of which you’ll likely notice as you explore. Bellingham offers plentiful outdoor beauty in and around the city.

North Cascades National Park is the perfect place to visit for tourists who hate the heat, not only because it's cooler in temperature, but because it's one of Washington's best free parks to visit.

North Cascades, often referred to as America's Alps, features some of the most rugged wilderness in the United States outside of Alaska. But it’s also a park that can be explored without a tremendous amount of effort.

Tucked in the northern reaches of Washington, North Cascades National Park is often called the "American Alps" due to its jagged peaks and over 300 glaciers. Despite its proximity to Seattle, it remains one of the least-visited parks, offering true wilderness solitude.

If you’re looking for a hike in Washington that combines jaw-dropping mountain views, alpine lakes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, the Chain Lakes Loop Trail is a must-do. Nestled in the North Cascades near Mount Baker, this loop trail offers stunning scenery at every turn.

Less than three hours from Seattle, the North Cascades is undoubtedly one of the country’s most majestic mountain regions. It’s also one of the least visited, for reasons that remain unclear.

Washington abounds in leaf-peeping spots, from Salish Lodge in Snoqualmie to the whole coast of the Puget Sound region from Tacoma to Bellingham, where fall colors are particularly striking against the backdrop of Bellingham Bay.

In the early 20th century, a stately brick structure that became known as the Leopold Hotel was the site of many social events, from weddings to other soirees, in downtown Bellingham, a Washington State bayside community roughly equidistant to Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia

One of the best places in the U.S. to see foliage this September is just a short drive from Bellingham, according to a new study.

Lake Anne Trail

Many of the park's trails provide excellent larch viewing opportunities in the fall. But the Lake Ann Trail probably provides the best views of both the area's larches and the surrounding mountain peaks.

Bellewood Farms, home to one of the largest apple orchards in western Washington with 25,000 trees, is known for its juicy Honeycrisp apples and 22 other varieties and pears.

Glacier, Washington

A hiker’s delight, the charming small town of Glacier Washington, is located northeast of Bellingham and is a fantastic base for exploring the nearby Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. 

North Cascades is among the USA’s least visited national parks. Only around 161km from Seattle, it really is one of the country’s best kept secrets, with some 2,040 sq km of natural beauty including mountains, lakes and more than 300 glaciers.

Bellewood Farms

Harvest season is upon us, with all sorts of fresh produce for the picking, including Washington’s state fruit: apples. Many Washingtonians embrace the new season enthusiastically.

Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway)

From evergreen forests to alpine landscapes, old bridges and breathtaking views, this bucket list ride is among the very best in the state. Highway 20 often closes by mid-October.

The elusive Bigfoot is reported to roam the dense forests of North Cascades National Park. Hike through trails of alpine peaks and keep an eye out for this legendary creature.

The Heather Maple Pass Trail is a super photogenic hike that delivers big views of incredible mountains and turquoise alpine lakes. This trail is also adorned with pretty wildflowers and waterfalls — then it transforms into a magical affair in the fall.

Moving from the East Coast to the West Coast, the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest is one of America's true heavyweight champions when it comes to dramatic natural beauty.

Despite sitting in the heart of what many consider the country's most beautiful mountain range, North Cascades National Park only received 40,351 visitors in 2023, putting it just ahead of Isle Royale National Park on the list of "least visited national parks in the lower 48 states."

A 100-year-old tall ship has sailed the vast reaches of the coastal Northwest for almost five decades. Strong and sure, regal and timeless, Zodiac is her name, and for nautical novices and seafaring explorers alike, she waits at the ready from her homeport of Bellingham, Washington, to carry those who are willing on the adventures of a lifetime.

Take a relatively hassle-free island escape by county-run ferry. Summertime gets extremely busy for Washington State Ferries and, unfortunately, WSF has seen better days. Hop aboard a county-run vessel for an idyllic escape to Anderson Island, Guemes Island or Lummi Island.

This Washington snow destination is a back-to-nature sort of spot — it’s a day ski area, which means you’ll sacrifice the comforts of traditional ski resorts in favour of a true locals’ vibe and uncrowded slopes. Plan to stay in nearby Glacier, or lodge further afield in Bellingham.

The story behind Bellingham's newest jump trail. “It’s probably seen 20,000 laps by now,” Scott Scamehorn says. He’s standing at the bottom of Double Vision, the latest Shire Built trail on Bellingham, WA’s Galbraith Mountain. 

A Lynden farm is committed to using the regenerative farming practices passed down through four generations to make high-quality milk products.

The West Coast's Snowiest Ski Resorts

1. Mt. Baker Ski Area, WA Average Snowfall: 688 inches

Chain Lakes Loop, Washington

With 1,820 feet of elevation gain and big views of Mt. Baker, the 6.5-mile Chain Lakes Loop is already a bucket-list hike, made better by trailside snacking on wild blueberries in late summer. 

We love the North Cascades National Park for what it’s not: It’s not easy to get to, it’s not all that busy, and it’s not a simple park. The top part of the state’s Cascade spine is a patchwork of protected lands: a spread of national park here, a finger of national recreation land there, and a sliver of hydroelectric dams and powerhouses in the middle.  

Glacier, Whatcom County

Glacier is a small town that packs a big punch with outdoor enthusiasts visiting the remote North Cascades. Skiing, biking, kayaking, and hiking are all easily accessible activities for visitors reaching this Washington gem.

With the city wrapped around its shoreline, Bellingham Bay acts as a hub for kayakers, whale watchers, and tide pool explorers. The dockside Marine Life Center educates on underwater residents with tanks of sea stars and anemones.

"North Cascades National Park in Washington State. It's overshadowed by Mt. Rainier and Olympic National Parks, but it's just as close to Seattle. IMO, it's arguably the most beautiful of the three, with stunning jagged mountains, glaciers, crystal clear alpine lakes, and plenty of hiking trails."

Father and son Steve and Mark Seymour are stewards of the coastal waters in Blaine, Washington, raising fresh, delectable oysters on their farm. Just a mile away, their store offers customers a true farm-to-table experience with oysters plucked straight from the source.

For nearly a decade, the Spinsters were a fixture at the Bellingham Farmers Market. Their booth was easy to find: market goers just needed to look for their brightly coloured yarns in vibrant cyan and deep magenta.

Nestled in the shadow of the North Cascades, just 10 miles northwest of Mount Baker Summit, Glacier is a remote small town popular with outdoor enthusiasts. The area has some of the best scenic drives in the US, including the 440-mile Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

Ross Lake Resort

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more unique and secluded getaway than this one nestled within the stunning wilderness of North Cascades National Park in Washington State.

Spincycle Yarns started from humble beginnings with two young women, Rachel Price and Kate Burge-Tibi, riding a bicycle full of hand-spun yarn to sell at the Bellingham Farmers Market.

Trade Seattle’s modern edge for an even more laid-back vibe, with easier access to the outdoors and a thriving craft beer scene, and you’ve got Bellingham: an easy-to-love contrast to big city living.

Mt. Shuksan, a glaciated massif in the North Cascades National Park in Washington State, is a gem. Shuksan means ‘High Peak’ in the Lummi language. Standing 9,131 ft., it is brethren to mighty volcanos of the Cascade Mountain Range.

For about three to four months in the summer, you can experience comfortable temperatures in the 70s at North Cascades National Park. It has a fairly temperate climate, with freezing conditions not always evident (even at night), and plenty of precipitation.

Whatcom Falls Park 

Whatcom Falls Park is a beautiful place to spend a day for both the winding forested trails and of course the falls themselves. You’ll also find a beautifully built WPA bridge. 

Mount Baker Highway 

Mount Baker Highway, also known as State Route 542, stretches for 58 miles from Bellingham to Artist Point near the summit of Mount Baker.

Meanwhile up north, Bellingham hoists spray cans and paint brushes for its second annual Noisy Waters Mural Festival (Aug. 16-18), featuring 20+ artists live-painting murals on 8’ x 8’ portable walls.

While the park has many excellent mountain hiking opportunities, the Sahale Arm Trail to Sahale Mountain is probably the best for visitors who want a true challenge. The Sahale Arm trail features some of the most difficult mountaineering challenges one may encounter.

North Cascades National Park is, if you look at the numbers, a shockingly under-visited park. Roughly the same distance from Seattle as Olympic and Rainier National Parks, North Cascades has a fraction of their visitors.

Costumer, foam smith and prop builder Mo Green believes that all bodies deserve to participate in this elaborate form of performance art.

Bear sightings at North Cascades are already high, with many tourists reporting seeing black bears as they hike the mountainside trails. Tourists to North Cascades National Park will not only have the chance to see black bears and soon grizzly bears, but also get deer, marmots, otters, mountain goats, and even wolves.

We headed back to Bellingham, and we ended up riding and did some moves that had only recently put down on the big bike. And even hit one move I had never done yet.

In the end, North Cascades National Park in Washington state came out on top with a rating of 89.7 out of 100. The park, which is less than three hours by car from Seattle and sits near the U.S.-Canada border, is best known for its rugged terrain shaped by glaciers and waterways.

North Cascades National Park on the Canadian border in Washington State is known as the American Alps, offering more than waterfalls, high peaks, and dramatic, snow-tipped mountains. It’s also home to more than 500 lakes and ponds—some of which you can boat in.

Sipping spruce-tipped cranberry cider as a technicolour sunset illuminates the bay-facing patio, you polish off a red lentil quinoa sandwich with tzatziki. Minutes later, you’ll be relaxing in a stylish independent movie theatre, watching an award-winning foreign film or cult classic.

Savor the tranquil atmosphere enhanced by a soft hum of leaves rustling, gentle cascades, and distant echoes of wildlife. The North Cascades is a divine, vast wilderness of lakes, glaciers, and conifer-clad mountains.

Next, you’ll want to explore Northern Cascades National Park. It’s one of the state’s underrated parks and the only one that doesn’t require a fee to enter. I wrote this detailed North Cascades Park itinerary to help you explore the park’s highlights.

Our plans to camp at Larrabee State Park took a strange turn, yet we still managed to have a blast throwing a celebration picnic for our friend Zola on Bellingham Bay. Here’s our latest lesson in rolling with it.

Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory began as a passion project for owner Matthew Mini, who started crafting sauces for friends and family using peppers grown in his own backyard garden.  

I encourage you to view Bellingham as more than a brief break in your journey, as it’s a worthy destination. The town and surrounding Whatcom County is a gem of the Northern Cascades. Here, you’ll find picturesque coastal views, verdant forests and abundant nature, outdoor adventure, a vibrant arts scene, historical attractions, and plenty of good food. 

Lummi Island may not be counted among the cool crowd of San Juan’s archipelago, but what it unjustifiably lacks in popularity points, it makes up for with its peaceful, natural refuge devoid of heavy tourist crowds.

The Northwest Tune-Up Festival is back in Bellingham for its third year celebrating biking, music, beer, and the PNW. This year’s headliners include Yonder Mountain String Band, Lupe Fiasco, and RJD2, along with other musical guests.

Summer cruising season in the Pacific Northwest for most travelers involves boarding a massive ship sailing to Alaska. But for those who prefer the more chill journey on the marine highway, there’s the Alaska ferry that leaves from Bellingham, Wash., a two-hour drive from Seattle.

North Cascades National Park is a wonderful destination for RVing adventures, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing and boating. Inside the park, our two favorite campgrounds are at Newhalem and Colonial Creek.

Tell your friends you traveled to the San Juans in five minutes from the mainland and they might wonder if you somehow found a supersonic seaplane. But Lummi Island is both very much part of the San Juan Island chain and very much only a five-minute sailing from the Lummi Reservation north of Bellingham.

Starting at the end of the Cascade River Road, this trail is one of the hardest hikes in North Cascades National Park. It offers a relentless climb through a series of switchbacks to reach Cascade Pass.

Blaine is throwing a massive 4th of July party filled with over 100 vendors, more than 350 classic cars, and a huge parade. In Bellingham, the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce, Peoples Bank, and the Port of Bellingham are teaming up for the city’s annual July 4th fireworks display.

The 63 National Parks in the U.S.—what writer and environmentalist Wallace Stegner once called “our best idea”—encompass a dizzying variety of worlds. Spoiled beyond belief, we can choose between dense woodland and bone-dry desert, inaccessible mountain peaks and protected swaths of ocean.

If ever there were a place that makes me wonder about the road not taken, it would be Bellingham. When I was a high school senior touring colleges, Western Washington University’s campus and Bellingham itself felt like coming home.

It’s summer, which means it’s the ideal time to see one of Washington’s most striking natural phenomena: bioluminescent plankton. Several places around town offer kayak tours to see the sea light up, or you can try to see it on your own at a nearby beach.

The U.S. Travel Association hosted a “Travel Works for America” Power Hour on June 18 at the Whatcom Museum in Bellingham. The event featured Ranking Member Rick Larsen of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, along with nearly 20 travel and business leaders from Washington state.

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most magical natural landscapes in the U.S. and perhaps no more than North Cascades National Park. Lake.com ranked all its studied destinations on a scale of 1 to 100. North Cascades came in just short of 90, with an 89.65.

If you don’t have to, why would you spend more money on flying to your travel destination rather than shopping, taking an excursion or treating yourself to a nice dinner? We are noticing an increasing number of travelers driving across the Canada-US border to fly out of Bellingham International Airport (BLI), and we think they are on to something.

Hotel Bellwether

A luxury, boutique hotel situated on Bellingham Bay, near the Squalicum Harbor marina. To the east, the king - Mt. Baker looks down with approval.

Despite its stunning beauty and location in one of the country's prime spots for outdoor activities, North Cascades National Park is perhaps the most unfairly overlooked park in the entire NPS system.

The road to Artist Point reopened for the summer Friday morning, giving drivers access to the popular and scenic location in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, about three hours northeast of Seattle.

My favorite, which I can not shut up about, was the Portofino at Storia Cucina with gin, lemon, tonic, celery bitters, and a little salt that drew the refreshing qualities of the vegetable. I had some other vibrant drinks, but this one has stayed on the tip of my tongue because of the delicate dance of each flavor note

The city offers easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. Nearby Mount Baker is renowned for its heavy snowfall and offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region

Decided to take a little roadtrip up to some greenery and visit the Transition crew in Bellingham, WA! It was nice to escape the dry desert for a few days and ride some of the best trails around. Will hopefully be back up that way soon in the search of more gems to ride.  

More people go to Alaska's major national parks than visit North Cascades, which may be why it's one of the top underrated national parks I would spend a week in.  

One of the best places to enjoy summer PNW style is Bellingham, WA, with its backyard full of luscious outdoors (water and mountains) along with a lively downtown.

Bellingham 

For best effect, Grass says, arrive by train around sunset, taking in the scenery near Chuckanut Mountain and focusing on the historic Fairhaven neighborhood.

I’d like to encourage you to view Bellingham as more than a brief break in your journey, as it’s a destination worthy in and of itself. The town and surrounding Whatcom County is a gem of the Northern Cascades.

While the coastal city of Bellingham offers visitors the chance to visit local breweries and shops, many RVers head here for outdoor adventures and scenic views.

Despite growing pains and staffing challenges, North Cascades National Park remains one of the most rewarding places to explore the mountains in Washington, if not the entire country.

The Amtrak Cascade train dazzles passengers with fall foliage in the Pacific Northwest. The route travels between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Eugene, Oregon.  

North Cascades National Park 

Here are 20 dark-sky locations—most of them in the north and northeast of the U.S.—where aurora will be visible if there’s a big geomagnetic storm and if the sky is clear of clouds.

Whatcom Falls Park is a beautiful place to spend a day for both the winding forested trails and of course the falls themselves. You’ll also find a beautifully built WPA bridge. Of course, the main attraction here in the summer is the swimming holes located along the river.

Lily and Lizard Lakes

This lesser-known backpacking destination in the Chuckanuts near Bellingham offers an extensive 7.5 mile trail network, so you can choose your own adventure! 

Sure, you could hop on I-5 and ride the bumper-to-bumper wave from the Seattle area north to Bellingham, but getting from "A" to "B" this way isn't likely to leave you with lasting memories, even if you opt to take breaks along the way.

Bellingham, Washington is a well known destination for a variety of outdoor activities. Located on the north edge of Washington State, 90 miles from Seattle,  it has access to both the coast and mountains, providing ample route options for whatever kind of riding you’re looking for on a given day.

Less than 3 hours from Seattle, North Cascades National Park is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

The town and surrounding Whatcom County is a gem of the Northern Cascades. Here you’ll find picturesque coastal views, verdant forests and abundant nature, outdoor adventure, a vibrant arts scene, historical attractions and plenty of good food. People are friendly and their enthusiasm for all that makes this place special is contagious.

This unique-in-North America competition, only the third of its kind in the world, drew 21 teams of three to a remote trailhead May 18 for a chance to race far outside the controlled confines of a ski resort.

Though not as famous as the iconic Mount Rainier, the landscape in North Cascades National Park showcases the splendid beauty of the Cascade Range in a unique way.

Boarding the train in Vancouver, British Columbia will allow you to reach the coastal city of Bellingham, Washington, in less than two hours. As it isn't far from the Canadian border, Bellingham offers visitors the chance to jump on the ferry and head to Alaska.

Despite growing pains and staffing challenges, North Cascades National Park remains one of the most rewarding places to explore the mountains in Washington, if not the entire country.

Bellingham, Washington, has reinvented itself as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with a vibrant artistic community. Travelers flock to this waterfront city for its easy access to hiking, biking, and water sports coupled with a thriving craft brewery and culinary scene.

North Cascades National Park, Washington Known as the "American Alps," North Cascades National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

The North Cascades are perfected within the rugged Cascade Range, which showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest's scenery, stretching from British Columbia, Canada, through Washington.

Not far from Seattle is an overlooked wilderness with more glaciers than any other park outside of Alaska. Rugged peaks, virgin forests, vast turquoise lakes, and sub-alpine meadows make North Cascades National Park the perfect destination for adventure-loving families.

The Cascade Mountains of the Pacific Northwest need little introduction among fans of the outdoors. With so many snow-capped peaks situated among vast green forests and serene alpine meadows, the Cascades might just be the single most beautiful destination in the United States.

Bellingham Pride

Bellingham will host two days of special events to celebrate Pride, including a family picnic, an all-ages dance, and the Bellingham Pride Parade!

The town and surrounding Whatcom County is a gem of the Northern Cascades. Here you’ll find picturesque coastal views, verdant forests and abundant nature, outdoor adventure, a vibrant arts scene, historical attractions and plenty of good food.

Despite growing pains and staffing challenges, North Cascades National Park remains one of the most rewarding places to explore the mountains in Washington, if not the entire country.

Longing for solitary hikes amid nature’s grandeur? Head to North Cascades National Park in Washington. This 505,000-acre National Park offers 375 miles of hiking across a network of 113 trails.

Young passengers can travel free on Amtrak trains and buses between Bellingham and Vancouver, Washington, thanks to fees paid by major polluters in the state.

The underrated, quiet North Cascades National Park is another worthy alternative to the thrilling, but crowded Olympic National Park. Established in 1968, it stretches over 504,654 acres and spans Whatcom, Skagit, and Chelan counties.

Encompassing the peaks of the North Cascades, the wine and orchard country of North Central Washinton and bucolic islands in the Salish Sea, the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway has it all.

Not far from the Canadian border, Bellingham, Washington is a good sized city: big enough to have everything you need, including a buzzing nightlife, but little enough to retain a small town charm.

The North Cascades offer some of North America’s most spectacular mountain scenery, with more peaks that rise 3,000 feet in the last horizontal mile to their summits than any other range on Earth.

Perfectly positioned between the majestic Mount Baker and the serene Bellingham Bay, this lively city boasts an abundance of activities and sights that will enchant visitors of all tastes.

North Cascades National Park 

Although this is a dramatic switch-up from the desert, this park is a good substitute for Zion for anyone who wants to explore lush, ethereal greenery instead of red rocks.

Road trip alert! Just over an hour’s drive from Vancouver, we ventured into Bellingham for a quick overnighter. From delightful dining spots to captivating museums and hoppy breweries—this charming city has it all!

Mount Baker Theatre

This tour will then travel up to Bellingham for a Saturday, June 8th concert at the gorgeous Mount Baker Theatre. (John will also be at this show!)

Bellingham International Airport (BLI) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) each involve a drive across the Canada-U.S. border but may reduce the cost of return tickets by upwards of $100.

North Cascades National Park is free to visit all year, making it a more cost-effective alternative to Olympic National Park. With only 40,000 visitors in 2023, North Cascades offers a peaceful and quiet escape compared to the busy Olympic National Park.

Visit North Cascades National Park in Washington. This park offers equally breathtaking alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and a true sense of wilderness without all the crowds. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers looking for peace and quiet.

When it comes to quick getaways, what about crossing the border? A little over an hour away from Vancouver by car, Bellingham is often regarded as a quick drive-by on the way to Seattle, but don’t let the small coastal city fool you. Bellingham’s unique charm is worth a stop, maybe even an overnight stay.

Take a visit to one of the sweet spots of the Pacific Northwest. Bellingham is surrounded by the towering trees that flourish in the coastal region, the forested area provides the perfect escape from reality. Visitors can even explore the abundant waters of Bellingham Bay.

Semiahmoo Resort is a vibrant, down-to-earth resort that offers an abundance of experiences that will be fun for the whole family. The options are endless - dining, spa treatments, golf, pickleball, bonfires with s'mores, biking, and many other activities.

Located on the scenic spit between Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor, Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine, Washington beckons families with its breathtaking views and myriad activities.

Bellingham

This underrated gem near Seattle has everything from scenic charm to culture, adventures, and a not-to-miss craft beer scene. Nestled on the shores of Bellingham Bay, this charming city is among the many perfect Washington towns for hikers and nature lovers.

The Amtrak Cascades route does indeed feature scenic mountain stops. While the majority of the route travels along the picturesque coastline of the Pacific Northwest, there are portions where the train ventures inland, offering passengers views of the majestic Cascade Range.

At the northwest tip of the U.S. resides the quintessential Pacific Northwest city Bellingham, one of the best places to live in Washington. With its close proximity to both water and mountains, and a vibrant downtown scene, Bellingham, affectionately called Bham by locals, offers a variety of activities for everyone.

Are you in need of a spa day? And who isn’t, really?! If you’re in Greater Vancouver or Seattle, look no further than Bellingham. This hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest is home to a brand-new spa offering the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation.  

Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival 

Boasting a wide variety of women-directed features and shorts from around the world, this local festival is also keeping the party going by showing its programming online. 

There’s a gorgeous golf course just south of the Canadian border near Bellingham, Wash., where the restaurant serves some of the best shrimp and grits west of the Mississippi. Here’s why you need to take a trip to this under-the-radar bistro that’s far from your typical “19th hole.”

Bellewood Farms, Chuckanut Bay Distillery, Bellingham Cider Company 

Apples are at the core of the unique line of spirits distilled at Bellewood Distilling, just outside Bellingham, Washington. 

Sharing oral histories, gatherings and events through film, podcasts, live events — and soon a digital library — Children of the Setting Sun defies the traditional categories of a “media” group.

Federal wildlife and land managers made final their decision to reintroduce grizzly bears to Washington’s North Cascades under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act today.

Bellingham combines small-city accessibility and a college-town independent streak that imbue this northern Washington town with a personality all its own. 

Fort Bellingham is one of those historical sites lost to time. According to Ghost Towns and Mines of Washington, the Fort was constructed as the nation's most northern outpost (at the time) in 1856 to protect settlers and trade in the growing Whatcom County area.  

The route is also a scenic bike route and accesses popular hiking routes such as the Pacific Crest Trail, so stay alert for bicyclists and pedestrians. Travel safely, slow down, pay attention, and enjoy the scenery!

The North Cascades Highway — State Route 20 — is reopening at 10 a.m. Friday, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced Wednesday. The scenic highway connects Whatcom and Skagit counties with Okanogan County's Winthrop and Twisp, passing ample hiking and outdoor destinations along the way at North Cascades National Park.

North Cascades Highway, also known as Highway 20, is set to reopen for the season at 10 a.m. Friday, April 19, after being closed since late November, the Washington Department of Transportation announced Wednesday.

Washington's North Cascades National Park is a moody, majestic fairy-tale landscape of pristine wilderness and breathtaking natural beauty. Picture towering mountain peaks that rise up from lush forests and a soundtrack of cascading waterfalls. And with an average summer temperature of 51 degrees Fahrenheit, it's the perfect balmy base for a cool summer getaway.

Director Catherine Hardwicke made movie history when she brought the bestselling book "Twilight" to the big screen. Today the director does workshops at film festivals all over the world - including an upcoming one at Bellingham's Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival - helping female filmmakers make epics of their own

Aslan Brewing Co., a B-Corporation with a USDA certified organic brewery in Bellingham, Wash., and a participant in last year’s program, just launched what they and Patagonia Provisions are calling the World’s First Regenerative Organic Certified IPA.  

Found in northern Washington, this is a national park known for its dramatic Cascade Mountain Range, which serves as a natural border between the US and Canada. With waterfalls, lakes, and bustling wildlife to boot, hiking in North Cascades is a given.   

North Carolina is one of her favorite outdoor destinations, as is the stunning North Cascades National Park in Washington State. It's less frequented and a bit wilder than many others; it's even closed during the colder months.

Washington’s three national parks host some of the best hikes in the state. Each offers natural scenery that showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest. North Cascades National Park comprises jagged peaks and alpine lakes.  

Nestled between the Puget Sound and the North Cascades, Bellingham offers a vibrant economy with strengths in healthcare, education (home to Western Washington University), and retail. The city is known for its commitment to sustainability, active outdoor lifestyle, and a thriving arts and music scene

"We're on Lummi Island. This is Legoe Bay right out here," said long-time Lummi resident Riley Starks. "Even before settlers came here, this was a favorite beach for the Lummi Nation." Now, Starks and others have teamed up to produce a crop new to commercial farming in our area.

Glaciers and alpine lakes with cool blue water draw visitors to this park, three hours from Seattle. North Cascades National Park offers grand scenery, with craggy peaks rising high into the sky and hundreds of glaciers dotted around the terrain.

Bellingham is the sleeper Pacific Northwestern hotspot hiding between Seattle and Canada. It’s packed with hiking trails, singletrack, waterfalls, and a postcard bay for paddlers, beachcombers, and ferry-catchers to the San Juan Islands.  

North Cascades National Park and Birch Bay State Park 

Birch Bay State Park combines water sports like crabbing and paddling with hikes along the Terrell Marsh Interpretive Trail, making it ideal to visit time and time again in the summer months for hiking or camping.

Across the border in Bellingham, the city council adopted a plan in 2021 with a focus on pedestrian facilities within the city’s public right of way, including sidewalks, curb ramps and push buttons. “Bellingham recognizes that access is not just a civil right; it is a social responsibility to uphold and promote diversity and inclusion,” said Holly Pederson, ADA coordinator for the city.

Meanwhile, in Bellingham, WA, at The Admiralty Lounge, owner Jabriel Donohue’s Coconut Milk Punch uses Empress Indigo Gin. Everything is prepped in advance, so guests miss the color change, but the bright pink finished product is still a dramatic sipper.  

North Cascades National Park 

April 20 is one of the 5 Free Admission days left this year for the National Parks in the U.S. If you are visiting Washington State or even live here and need a refresher, then let’s get started.

You can experience one of his earlier steel works in Bellingham, at the Western Washington University Sculpture Collection. Among the stunning array of abstract works scattered outdoors across the campus (Isamu Noguchi! Nancy Holt! Donald Judd!) is Serra’s “Wright’s Triangle” (1979-80).

Vancouver-based, Attawapiskat filmmaker Jules Arita Koostachin will be receiving the Shirley Jo Finney Featured Filmmaker Award at this year’s Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival in Bellingham,

Located in the stunning state of Washington is North Cascades National Park. It’s a 500,000-acre area with an expansive glacial system, high flora biodiversity, magnificent views, turquoise waters, and even mountain goats.  

After traveling to 59 US national parks, a few stand out more than others. Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming tops my list of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

Breathtaking North Cascades National Park is less than three hours from bustling Seattle, but it might as well be a world away. Rugged mountain peaks, glacial waters and sprawling forests abound.

For many years, North Cascades National Park and the surrounding Washington wilderness was home to countless grizzly bears. Now, after disappearing from the area nearly three decades ago, the bruins are set to be reintroduced to the region.  

Bellingham Beer Week is a ten-day celebration of Bellingham’s beer scene, featuring events at brewery taprooms and the city’s taphouses, culminating with one of the largest beer festivals in Washington state, April Brews Day on Saturday, April 28th.

Sahale Glacier Camp, North Cascades National Park, Washington

It’s hard to say which sight is more awe-inducing: the North Cascades’ night skies or its peaks. Experience unobstructed views of both from the foot of the Sahale Glacier—at 7,400 feet, this is the highest campsite on our list. 

Amtrak Cascades and Alaska Marine Highway 

She has her sights set on a multimodal Alaska trip that would begin on Amtrak, switch to the famous Alaska Marine Highway (where travelers camp on the deck of a ferry for days at a time), and conclude in Denali National Park.

Bellingham Beer Week is back for a 10th year! Breweries and taphouses all around Bellingham will be celebrating our city’s vibrant craft beer culture with a week of creative events and beer releases, leading up to the grand finale of Bellingham’s biggest beer festival- April Brews Day!  

Bellingham

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk the streets in 1853? If that piques your interest, Historic Fairhaven, a National Historic District, is home to many cozy shops, restaurants, and parks that await your arrival.

Mount Baker and North Cascades

That giant mountain you can see while crossing the Lions Gate Bridge? Yeah, you can ski there. And it’s about the same distance from Vancouver as Whistler.

New Mexico Tamale Co.

If you’re on the hunt for authentic New Mexican food made with hatch chiles, head to Whatcom County. "I didn't know the big difference until I left, you take it for granted,” said owner Dora Ruiz. “As I traveled around the U.S. looking for that flavor I grew up with, that I hungered, I couldn't find it."

Diablo Lake, North Cascades National Park 

Known for its striking turquoise waters, Diablo Lake is a man-made reservoir surrounded by towering mountains. The lake’s vibrant color is due to the glacial flour (fine powder of silt) that is carried into the lake by melting snow and ice.

There are more than 400 miles of trail and popular activities include hiking, biking, rock climbing, canoeing, rafting and year-round backcountry skiing. But photography is also popular and there are lots of places to simply take in the views.

In the last few years, as electric mountain bikes have surged in popularity, it has been a battle to legalize them. On February 26th, 2024, Galbraith Mountain, one of the most popular networks in Washington, recently legalized e-bikes. 

Pickford Film Center

Celebrate the magic of cinema with Pickford Film Center, an independent theater in Bellingham. The nonprofit film center is a two-screen (soon-to-be five-screen) setting, showcasing the latest in foreign gems, cult classics and avant-garde masterpieces. 

Idyllically situated between Vancouver, BC to the north and Seattle, WA to the south, the city of Bellingham is an outdoor enthusiasts dream, offering proximity to the Pacific Ocean, an abundance of pristine lakes, and sought-after ski hills. But residents of this jewel in the Pacific Northwest... also boast of their love for coffee.

North Cascades National Park 

Hoping to beat the crowds on your next excursion? CNN Travel says these 10 US national parks will provide plenty of solitude. 

Allegiant Flight to Bellingham 

Allegiant may not have the largest route map, but I have found the flights to be enjoyable with one flight to Bellingham, Washington being the smoothest landing I've ever had in all my travels.

Bellingham Children’s Film Festival

If you’re looking for another reason to take a trip up to beautiful Bellingham for a two-day festival specifically geared toward the infinite imaginations of younger viewers, the Pickford has you covered. 

North Cascades National Park 

America’s national parks are bouncing back from the Covid-19 pandemic: The National Park Service recorded 325,498,646 recreation visits at 400 federally protected sites in 2023, according to data released last week.

North Cascades National Park

Peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers tower over this alpine landscape. More than 1,600 species of plants have been identified on this land that spans temperate rainforest to a dry ponderosa pine ecosystem.  

Are you searching for an unforgettable and thrilling escape in the Pacific Northwest? Bellingham, Washington, is your ideal destination! Perfectly positioned between the majestic Mount Baker and the serene Bellingham Bay, this lively city boasts an abundance of activities and sights that will enchant visitors of all tastes. O

North Cascades National Park

“Our national parks tell our shared American story. I'm glad visitors are finding hidden gems, exploring in the off-season and finding new ways to have a great time in our national parks,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said in a statement. 

Bellingham’s athletic footprint — and its fans — will receive a boost in exposure after the city’s West Coast League baseball team, the Bellingham Bells, was selected to host the league’s 2024 all-star event.

Lummi Island 

Lummi Island is a tiny and remote island near Bellingham that is great for a quiet weekend getaway. At only 9.25 square miles in size, the island is so small that it doesn’t even have a gas station. But if a low-key weekend away from it all sounds appealing, then Lummi Island might be for you.

North Cascades National Park

For those seeking a wilderness adventure, North Cascades National Park in Washington is the perfect destination. Known as the "American Alps," this park is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Bellingham

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Bellingham, just over the border in Washington State. You’ll find the same spectacular scenery, but with added American charm. Hip breweries and heritage homes give Bellingham a funky vibe. Murals, outdoor sculptures, and totem poles show off the city’s love for the arts.

Semiahmoo Resort

Want to give the gift of travel this Valentine’s Day? How about a getaway to a gorgeous spot in the PNW during the off-season for an affordable night or weekend away? We found rates as low as $145/nt at the Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine, WA, located up on the border of Canada, thru March 2024.

Bellingham is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Washington state. A 90-minute drive from both Vancouver and Seattle, it is centrally located for those looking to escape the city. Even closer to the border is Lynden, a small town just outside of Bellingham that offers plenty of charm on its own.

Between Bellingham and Mount Vernon lie the Chuckanut Mountains and Blanchard Hill, complete with a large network of trails, old-growth forests, lakes, and stunning views of Mount Baker, British Columbia’s Golden Ears and the San Juan Islands.

Bellingham Treehouse 

This treehouse in Washington State seems like a dream come true. Built amongst the trees and overlooking the stunning area of Bellingham, this destination is situated in one of the best spots to experience Washington’s famous beauty.

Among mountain bikers, “gravel grinding” has emerged as a subculture specialized for gravel roads. From logging roads to trails to city streets, Bellingham’s gravel holds untold adventures for outdoor recreationists. In 2023, Gravel Adventure Field Guide published its edition on Bellingham.

North Cascades National Park 

When it comes to genuine, unfiltered travel advice from real people, there’s no place like Reddit. And every once in a while, the travel community really shows up, sharing their favorite spots, tricks, and hacks. 

At the mouth of Whatcom Creek, signs on Bellingham’s waterfront buildings denote an “Old Town” — traditionally the oldest part of a city. Throughout the Columbia and Letter Streets neighborhoods, bordering the Central Business District, visitors can observe this original townsite of Whatcom.

Chuckanut Drive 

Calling it a spa isn’t quite enough. Bow Sanctuary on Chuckanut Drive includes massage services and a sauna, yes, but also yoga classes and Qigong energy treatments. Workshops cover handling grief or finding community through tea service, and tranquil outdoor acres are tended by a garden club. A new cafe rounds out the spot as a full-day mindful retreat.

North Cascades National Park 

Wolverines are found at high elevations in the Cascade Mountains from North Cascades National Park and Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Adams, as well as in northeastern Washington, per WDFW. Because the animals are loners, live in remote areas, shy away from people and have huge territories — a home range of over 1,000 square kilometers is not unusual for a male — they are extremely hard to study, Lewis said.

Galloway's and Stones Throw Brewery 

Now that temperatures have dropped, thoughts turn to keeping warm by the fire armed with a belly warmer. Many Northwest establishments bring out the heaters so diners can stay warm in their outdoor spaces while enjoying their fare. But some add to this winter warmth by offering a truly elevated outdoor experience. Below, find cozy winter patios to visit in the Pacific Northwest.

Point Roberts

I went for a walk out the backdoor of my cute cottage Airbnb by the sea to see what's around. I'm on this strange exclave called Point Roberts, WA and it was 8F this morning, now my phone says 19F. That's cold, especially for a casual walk. Like the Michelin man, I set outside in my puffy outfit from head to ankle and head for the cliffs.  

North Cascades National Park 

On my hike up Cascade Pass and the Sahale Arm in North Cascades National Park, I passed hundreds of other people—but with endless mountain views, there was room enough for all of us. That day, I also hiked by baby mountain goats, and found a quiet (enough) spot to eat my lunch and marvel at the glaciated peaks around me. While hiking solo, it can also be comforting to know other people are around in case something goes wrong.

According to a recent permit filing, Bry’s Filipino Cuisine will soon open a brick-and-mortar in Bellingham at 1151 N State St. "Bry’s will have traditional and modern-style Filipino food with a nice ambiance and a bunch of specialty cocktails. Some cocktail ideals will be ube cocktails or mango cocktails. I’m still working on that! I’m a chef, but not really an experienced bartender, so I decided to go to bartending school. I’m also currently a board member of Bellingham’s Farmers Market, and I started my business there," owner and chef Bryan Matamorosa told What Now Seattle.

Are you searching for an unforgettable and thrilling escape in the Pacific Northwest? Bellingham, Washington, is your ideal destination! 

Perfectly positioned between the majestic Mount Baker and the serene Bellingham Bay, this lively city boasts an abundance of activities and sights that will enchant visitors of all tastes.

North Cascades, Seattle to Vancouver, & Cascade Loop 

My home region is one of the most beautiful in the country. Home to looming mountains begging to be explored to rugged coastlines, expansive deserts, and quirky cities, the best way to see it is to take one of the following road trips.

North Cascades National Park

Growing up in the Midwest, I often saw photos on calendars or computer-screen wallpapers that seemed like they couldn't be real.

The towering mountain peaks, jagged coastlines, and unique rock formations were so different from what I saw in my daily life that I couldn't imagine they existed.

Carnal 

The compact walk-in cooler at Carnal is pristine. The floor gleams. The metal shelving is buffed to a high shine, stocked with clear, neatly organized and labeled containers of produce, proteins and sauces. The Bellingham restaurant focuses on regionally sourced ingredients, and there are plenty of those to be prepared and served...

Seattleites may see some of the best bird-watching opportunities of the year over the next few days and weeks as migratory birds from farther north flee the polar vortex, according to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW). A few local highlights, per WDFW, include black brant geese, harlequin ducks, dunlins, sandpipers and oystercatchers that are often found along Puget Sound shorelines from Tacoma to Bellingham.

At Point Roberts, Washington State, Boundary Marker Number One in Monument Park seems to evoke a lot of questions and even quash assumptions. There, in this quiet, Washington State park situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific's Strait of Georgia, one suddenly comes face to face with rather a lot of history.

Imagine a $466, 3-day cruise from Bellingham, Washington, to Juneau, Alaska—a great jumping off point for further ferry or foot exploration. Long-haul Alaska ferries have a designated area where you can pitch your tent and while away your chug from here to there. Here’s the guarantee: The views will be sublime, and you’ll have plenty of time to admire them when the summer sun shines for eighteen hours. 

Fairhaven

The cobblestoned community, nestled quaintly against the shores of Bellingham Bay, is full of natural beauty and Victorian elegance. The heart of its unique spirit is the central Fairhaven Village Green, an eclectic space filled with boutiques and local eateries. The annual 93-mile Ski to Sea Race ends in Fairhaven, while Boulevard Park offers waterfront trails with access to stunning bay views.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Short hikes out to Diablo Lake Overlook and Washington Pass allow visitors to be enveloped in darkness. And while the best viewing time is in the fall through spring, with the trails always being open and the chance that the Northern Lights could be seen in the summer, there truly is no bad time to visit this lesser-known national park.

Larrabee Park

Larrabee Park features a stretch of shoreline along Samish Bay. Visitors can enjoy views of the bay, the San Juan Islands, and the surrounding coastal landscapes. Larrabee Park is conveniently located along Chuckanut Drive, a scenic byway renowned for its coastal views, farmland scenery, and access to outdoor recreation.

Bellingham

What makes Bellingham a perfect Washington ski town is Mount Baker. The stratovolcano, originally named Koma Kulshan, meaning “Great White Watcher,” is east of Bellingham. The mighty peak is among the highest in the Cascade range and is home to the Mt. Baker Ski Area.  

Visit Bellingham, and you can't deny the beauty of this city, with its winning combination of mountains, lakes, oceans, and forests. Add the energy of a small college town replete with great bookshops, cozy cafes and restaurants, and a full year-round roster of fun events on the calendar, and there's never a bad time to visit. 

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Cascade Pass and Shale Arm, Washington

This foray into North Cascades National Park made me feel like I’d stepped into the Alps. Under a crystal-clear sky, I discovered the pure magic of summer in the Pacific Northwest. After gradually ascending through the forest, the trail bursts into the alpine with views of jagged granite ridgelines, streaming waterfalls, and glacier-carved valleys.

Fairhaven

Along the shores of Bellingham Bay, Fairhaven provides a mix of Victorian elegance and natural beauty. The historic Fairhaven district is transporting, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved buildings. Explore the Fairhaven Village Green, a central gathering space surrounded by boutique shops and local eateries.

Day 6: North Cascades National Park

The fact that North Cascades National Park is free to enter doesn’t mean it isn’t still worth at least one full day of enjoyment. Indeed, like many national parks, guests could easily spend a full day simply exploring the best hiking trails in North Cascade National Park, wandering through the forests, along rivers, and near crashing waterfalls.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: Geologically diverse and rich

Skiing and snowboarding are available, and in the winter, waterfalls in the locale are transformed into majestic walls of ice. The area is also known for its exceptional birding opportunities, with over 300 species being spotted in the forest.

The big day may be approaching, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plan a last-minute Christmas trip in Washington. For a low-key holiday outing, I recommend going up to Bellingham. This charming college town is jam-packed with delightful yuletide recreation. It’s also the perfect place to find those stocking stuffers you haven’t found yet!

Baker Lake Trail

While most other Cascadian trails are buried under snow, the Baker Lake Trail’s low elevation makes it an excellent winter adventure with old-growth forests, spectacular views of Mount Baker, and the beautiful Baker Lake itself. Camping areas outfitted with fire pits and vault toilets offer the opportunity to turn your hike into an overnight trip if you so desire.

8. Mount Baker Scenic Byway

We may be cheating a little bit, but every mile of the Mount Baker Scenic Byway is filled with remarkable scenic vistas and incredible overlooks. This 57-mile scenic drive travels from Bellingham to Artist Point and ends at the base of Mount Baker. This byway actually contains some of the most photographed landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.

In December 1998, Jeff Hambelton graduated from Western Washington University with big plans: to become a snowboard bum for the winter. His timing was perfect: During the 1998-99 snow season, Mount Baker received 95 feet of snow, setting the national and world record for the most snowfall in a year. The mark stands 25 years later. No annual total has since come close, at Mt. Baker or any other ski hill on the planet.

Birch Bay

Birch Bay is a thriving bayside town on the Canadian border. The crystal waters with far-off islands make for excellent rural views in this small town. Visitors can relax on Cottonwood Beach and watch the sunset over the water. Fans of golf will be delighted by the award-winning Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club, which is open year-round to members only. However, public lessons and events are available.

Salmon Ridge Sno-Park is the main trailhead to access some 14 miles of forest roads maintained by the Nooksack Nordic Ski Club for groomed skiing, plus many more miles of ungroomed backcountry trails. Founded in 1992 by a group of Whatcom County cross-country enthusiasts, the volunteer club has cultivated a small but mighty nordic community in an unforgiving setting that receives snow and rain in seemingly equal measure.

Artist Point

Snowshoe through a wintry forest scene at one of the best viewpoints in the state. Popular Artist Point near Mount Baker gets reliably high amounts of snow along with stunning views of the Cascades and Baker Lake.

Mt. Baker Ski Area

It snows here. A lot. Mt. Baker Ski Area still hangs its hat on the world-record-breaking 1998-99 season, when it snowed 1,140 inches. Modest elevation can affect snow levels, so watch the weather closely before making this long day trip from Seattle.

North Cascades National Park

Beyond comparable to more popular National Parks, the North Cascades are a sight to behold in northern Washington. With jaw-dropping glaciers, mountains, and clear lakes, it’s shocking that it’s not pinned on more maps.

Bellingham, Washington

Snow is on the way to Washington and it’s time to get out your snowshoes. This weekend, consider a trip to the scenic and aptly named Artist Point in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

One northern Washington town finds new life on a quiet highway east of Bellingham. 

There are no glaciers in Glacier. In fact, you can’t even see any ice sheets from the center of town, though some nearby viewpoints afford a look at the snowy top of Mount Baker, about 10 miles to the southeast. 

Immerse Yourself in Washington State Nature 

For more driving (and less ghosts) try scenic Chuckanut Drive and mountainous Chinook Pass. For mountain bikers, Galbraith Mountain just outside of Bellingham, offers over 105 kilometres trails across 2800 acres. There’s a trail for every skill level.

Bellingham 

Bellingham is quaint, the drive is stunning and there is so much to do and see along the way. Cruise down Chuckanut Drive for views of Bellingham Bay and stop at Taylor Shellfish Farms for a taste of some of Washington’s best oysters.

Mount Baker, WA

In 1985, Mt. Baker was one of the first—if not the first—ski area to allow snowboarders. The terrain at Baker is like a giant skateboard park with rollers, gullies, banks, hips, cliffs, and tons of other natural features. The massive snowfall is also well-known. 

Mount Baker rests at 10,786 feet above sea level. It has a prominence of 8,812 feet and is listed as North America’s 28th most-prominent peak. It is also one of the ten highest peaks in the entire Cascade Range. This range spans several states and a portion of British Columbia in Canada.

Washington

The Victorian town of Fairhaven will hold its Winterfest celebration (select dates throughout December) and lastly, there’s no better place to be in the Pacific Northwest on New Year’s Eve than Seattle, as the Emerald City will once again put on a spectacular fireworks display with its iconic Space Needle serving as a backdrop.

Mt. Baker Ski Area

“Our focus is on the home mountain experience,” says CEO Gwyn Howat. That means no advance sales with variable pricing, just sub-$100 day tickets and limited season pass sales. With steep slopes on the shoulder of Mount Shuksan (Baker itself is a few miles away) and record-breaking snowfall from marine air, beginner terrain is limited; out-of-bounds powder slopes are legendary.

Bistro Estelle - Bellingham, Washington

It’s not that it took a trio of EMP alums to put Bellingham, Washington—a small city north of Seattle and just shy of the Canadian border—on the map. That happened back in 1903 when it was incorporated. But the culinary credentials of the chef and his partners undoubtedly make the town more delicious. Bistro Estelle is their third restaurant in less than three years.

Mt. Baker, Washington

North of Seattle, and just south of the Canadian border, sits Mt. Baker, a true Pacific Northwest ski resort in Washington’s Northern Cascades. Locally owned and operated since 1953, Mt. Baker Ski Area is another great location for skiers and snowboarders looking to ride epic terrain and catch endless views without the lift lines.

Sip Tea at Willowbrook Manor

This charming Victorian-style manor offers a unique experience for tea enthusiasts. Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea amidst the serene ambiance of the manor's gardens and chamomile farms. Willowbrook Manor also hosts private tea parties, scenic bike tours, and even overnight stays, providing a delightful escape into Victorian charm.

Blue Lake

Another gem in the Northern Cascades is Blue Lake. But what sets this trail apart is that the reward comes quickly. A gorgeous and pristine lake, surrounded by granite peaks, lies only about two miles from the trailhead. Plus, the trail sits right off Highway 20, making it highly accessible.

Looking to get outdoors? Embark on a beautiful journey through nature on the Baker River Trail, where old trees and mossy boulders create an easy, mid length hiking adventure. On your 5.2 mile roundtrip hike, you’ll wander alongside the Baker River, splashing through stream crossings and encountering open areas teeming with alder, huckleberry, and salmonberry during spring and summer months.

Otherlands Haładuda Specjal (Bellingham, Washington) - This was one of our Best 20 in 2022, but guess what? I got to drink it again. Bright and fresh and light yet unreserved, this Polish-hopped pilsner has a white-flower nose like chamomile over brioche, but then that loaf warms into a malt-cookie that reminds me of sticking my nose into krugs at Franconian kellers. The bitterness is ample yet supple, never harsh.

“Some mornings, the sun’s hitting that reef net just right and it’s like I know it’s talking to me,” said Ellie Kinley, a member of the Lummi (Lhaq’temish) Nation and the last Indigenous permit holder of an ancient salmon-fishing practice. Her reef net rig, parked on the shore of Lummi Nation, serves as a reminder of a once-thriving Indigenous fishing tradition that, for now, sits idle.

The 10,781-foot-tall (3286 meters) Mount Baker is located in the beautiful Northern Cascade Range, close to the Canadian border, approximately 1.5 hours drive east of Bellingham, Washington. With an incredible 1,140 inches (28.95 meters) of snowfall between November and April in the 1998–1999 season, Mt. Baker broke a world record for the greatest snowfall in a single season.

Mt. Baker Ski Area, Washington

Its name may state it’s a “ski area,” but in many ways, Baker is a snowboarder haven. It was one of the first areas, if not the first ski area to allow snowboarding, and has been run by the Howat family for over 50 years. “It’s impossible to say enough about this mountain,” confirmed Sandor. “A small, independent mountain with some of the mightiest terrain, this should be on the top of every snowboarder’s list.”

What could be a more fitting way to celebrate a special anniversary a pair of groundbreaking albums from Pacific Northwest legends than a commemorative coffee blend? Camber Coffee in Bellingham stepped up with some very cool beans, tasted and approved by members of Death Cab for Cutie and Postal Service.

The Park Butte Lookout, Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest

As one of the most beautiful Washington hikes, this trail truly has it all, boasting vibrant wildflower-dotted meadows, wild mushrooms, panoramic views of Mt. Baker and the surrounding Cascades, and rolling waterfalls.

Six miles of trails curve through Sehome Hill Arboretum, a natural space next to Western Washington University’s campus. The soaring trees and a restored tunnel in a sandstone outcropping—originally excavated for Model T–era cars to putter through the park—have a way of making civilization feel distant, but views of Bellingham emerge from the top of a 41-foot observation tower.

Thornton Lakes

The Thornton Lakes in North Cascades National Park offer travelers a trifecta of alpine beauty. Hikers get their payoff in epic mountain vistas, wildflowers, and serene waters.

North Cascades National Park

Originally established in 1968, North Cascades National Park has become a beacon for the state and is only three hours away from Seattle. There are no entrance or parking fees. However, you have to pay if you wish to camp overnight.

Cloudcap Falls – Washington – 2,402 Feet

There are four prominent waterfalls on Mount Shuksan’s southeast flank in North Cascades National Park in Washington state. Cloudcap Falls it the tallest of the waterfalls and it cascades 2,400 feet over Jagged Ridge.

Heather Meadows Visitor Center

Go east on Highway 542 toward Mt. Baker Ski Area until the road dead-ends at its winter closure (approximately October to June). Here you’ll find a handsome pitched-roof timber structure perched on a rock ledge.

Bellingham, Washington

This town provides students and tourists with numerous engaging activities — from everyday scenic views at Bellingham Bay, where you can catch sunsets with the mighty Mount Baker towering in the background, to a variety of quality restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, Bellingham has it all. 

Sitting above Drayton Harbor overlooking Semiahmoo Bay in the Strait of Georgia, Blaine, population 6,000, is what many consider a way station between Bellingham and Vancouver, B.C. Many pass through without stopping, but a pleasant few hours await those who do. A detour to what locals call the “Peace Arch City” can bring you solace before or after a long drive on Interstate 5.

The technique, originally invented by the Straits Salish People, was banned by the Canadian government in the early 1900s, but has since been reintroduced by proponents like Riley Starks, a local reefnetter and executive director of the Salish Center for Sustainable Fishing Methods.

Ross Lake Resort

Ross Lake Resort is one of the best places to stay to marvel at the gorgeous North Cascades National Park. It is located in Washington and is home to forested valleys, wetlands, swamps, more than 300 glacier-topped peaks, and 500 lakes and ponds.

#39 - Diablo Lake, Washington

The colour of Diablo Lake, in North Cascades National Park, is no trick of the eye or the light. The vivid, milky turquoise hue is very real, caused by flour-like particles that have been ground from rocks by surrounding glaciers. The lake does look even more spectacular when they catch the light, though, creating a breathtaking vista against the forested banks and mountain backdrop.

Washington National Park Road Trip

With dense evergreen forests, rocky shoreline, and the only temperate rainforest in North America, there is no doubt that Washington National Parks deserve to be on any road trip bucket list.The last stretch of this drive takes national park road trip travelers to North Cascades National Park, perhaps the most underrated of the national parks in Washington.

Cascade Loop, Washington

One of the major highlights of the Cascade Loop is the scenic drive through the North Cascades Highway, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Washington Pass Overlook provides a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the majestic beauty of the area.

Amtrak began operating its first intercity electric bus this August, making it the first electric vehicle in the company’s national network. The bus runs from Seattle to Bellingham, Washington, almost a 200-mile journey round-trip. The Van Hool 45-foot motor coach can make the trip on a single charge and seats up to 60 passengers.

North Cascades National Park, Washington 

This is one of the spots to catch some of Washington’s most breathtaking views, especially in the winter. Located deep in the Cascade Mountain Range, the park sees a lot of snow in the cold season, making it one of the snowiest places in the world. 

With 500 Taxidermied birds, jail cells from the 1800s, and a mysterious mannequin that’s been known to appear in the clock tower window (not an official exhibit, but a bonus), the Whatcom Museum in Bellingham, Washington, is a must-see. With 200,000 items in its care, the museum’s collections are a little like grandma’s attic—and you never know what new and surprising items will be on display. But the Whatcom Museum is also a Smithsonian Affiliate, hosting masterpieces from around the country.

Ross Lake + Diablo Lake

Nestled in the heart of North Cascades National Park, Ross and Diablo Lakes offer tranquility, adventure, towering peaks, and pristine waters. These glacial-fed lakes stretch for miles through canyons and valleys. This area is a haven for kayakers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts.

#3 - Mount Baker

Mt. Baker, located in Washington, offers a unique and exhilarating ski experience this season with its legendary deep powder and challenging terrain, making it a magnet for avid skiers and snowboarders. Besides the epic slopes, the mountain's picturesque surroundings and vibrant après-ski scene add to the fun and uniqueness of this winter destination.

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington

This beautiful natural area is located only two hours from Vancouver and offers some pretty incredible natural beauty. In the wintertime, visitors will find excellent world-class skiing on the mountain at Mount Baker Ski Area, along with several other winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Salmon Ridge Sno-Park.

Kayak In North Cascades, WA

Filled with paths that twist across the mountainous region of Washington, the North Cascades take nature lovers into paradise and sends travelers on a journey through woody brush, into pine forests, and across lakes that are bluer than Chris Pine's eyes.

Chuckanut Drive

Winding for 22 miles along steep coastal bluffs above the shores of Samish Bay, this nationally recognized scenic byway weaves through verdant forest with periodic overlooks of the water and islands below. A relaxing morning leading to an afternoon drive to take in the area's natural beauty makes way for a peaceful journey.

North Cascades National Park: The Wild National Park

North Cascades National Park protects some of the rugged mountains of the dramatic North Cascades with large wilderness areas. It is located up by the border with Canada and the protected zone extends into provincial parks on the Canadian side of the border.

North Cascades Highway, Washington

Nicknamed “America’s Alps,” the North Cascades Highway is among the best fall road trips on the West Coast. It winds past alpine peaks and waterfalls over two mountain passes. Fall colors shine from October into early November.

Western Washington University - 215 Acres

This public university in Bellingham is the northernmost university in the contiguous United States. Western Washington University was founded in 1893 and sits on 215 acres along Bellingham Bay in Northwest Washington near the Canadian border.

Chain Lakes Trail: Mount Baker, Washington

Chain Lakes Trail in Mount Baker Wilderness, Washington State, presents extraordinary fall colors, alpine lakes, and, of course, impressive views of Mt. Baker. This hiking trail is a more difficult 6.2 miles out-and-back style trail with over 1,820 ft. of elevation.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

This national park is an all-in-one destination for scenic drives, hiking, and unwinding by a lake among the beautifully jagged North Cascades. Take the North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20) underneath the peaks, often referred to as the “American Alps,” with a must-stop Diablo Lake Overlook from the parking lot. 

Point Roberts in Washington State

Cross the border to Point Roberts in Washington State for a distinct day trip experience. This relaxed destination offers a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a charming community perfect for a leisurely day trip. Stroll along the picturesque shoreline, explore the small town, and enjoy the serene atmosphere as you soak in the coastal beauty of Point Roberts.

North Cascades National Park (Washington)

Located three hours away from Seattle, this Washington National Park is famed for its unparalleled rugged beauty.

In addition to its shimmering lakes and lush forests, it's also known for its more than 300 icy glaciers.

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is easily one of the most underrated and beautiful places in the United States. This gorgeous park is stunning year-round with vibrant blue pools to swim in during summer, crisp yellow leaves on the trees in the fall, and snow-capped peaks during winter.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Tucked away in the northern corner of Washington, North Cascades National Park offers breathtaking mountain scenery without the crowds of parks further south. In the fall, exploring the scenic hiking trails in North Cascades National Park offers gorgeous views of larches and other conifers turning vibrant yellow and gold amidst the jagged, snow-capped peaks.

Washington boasts numerous mountainous regions adorned with alpine glaciers. Precisely, there are 3,101 glaciers in the state, although only 186 of them bear names. Washington State takes second place in the U.S. (first in the contiguous U.S.) for its extensive glacial coverage, with a total area of 173 square miles of glaciers. North Cascades National Park in Washington is home to over 300 glaciers and numerous expansive snowfields. 

North Cascades National Park

Also known as the “American Alps,” the North Cascades are full of evergreen pine trees sprinkled with golden larches and reddish orange maples, making it one of the most scenic fall destinations in the Northwest. Although challenging, Maple Pass Loop is a favorite for photographers and experienced hikers – be sure to check that the area is open before you hit the road.

Washington breweries brought home 14 medals from the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) this year. Winners were announced yesterday in Denver. The competition is generally considered the nation’s most important beer-judging event. Here are some quick facts about the 2023 edition of the GABF: this year, three Washington breweries won two medals each: Cloudburst Brewing, Ghostfish Brewing, and Kulshan Brewing.

Whatcom Falls Park

And finally, if you just want to enjoy a good old classic Washington park you should check out Whatcom Falls. Because you’ll get a beautiful drive up to Bellingham and get to enjoy a short 4-mile roundtrip hike to see a waterfall and some perfect fall colors.

Easy Access National Park

Back in the lower 48, the last two national parks to explore for fall colors are Great Basin National Park and North Cascades National Park. These two parks are among the least visited, car-accessible national parks in the continental United States, according to 2022 park data. 

Bellingham

Nestled in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Bellingham is a dream spot for seniors seeking a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and urban charm. Tucked between the mountains and the sea, this vibrant city offers a multitude of experiences that cater to adventurous spirits.

Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse, Bellingham

At this veteran restaurant, steaks are just as good as you remember your Grandpa making them. Enjoy punchy flavors in a cozy environment at this nostalgic Bellingham favorite.

Bellingham

Bellingham is one of the most charming cities in Washington, boasting scenic views of the Pacific Ocean from Bellingham Bay. Travelers can indulge in classic fall activities in the area, such as apple picking at Bellewood Farms, pumpkin picking at Stoney Ridge Farm, and scary stories at the Gore & Lore Tour.

Blaine

The town of Blaine sits 35 miles south of Vancouver, British Columbia, and is often known as "The Gateway to the Pacific Northwest." Blaine is home to Peace Arch International Monument and Park, which is also split with Canada, and visitors from both countries can visit at once.

Yellow Aster Butte

If there was one blockbuster fall color hike, it’s this high elevation trail with a color already in its name. Only a few miles south of the Canadian border, it’s accessed via an unpaved road near Mount Baker Ski Area. The Cascade blueberry shrubs and heather plants put on a reliable show, and thanks to big views of rock formations and a lot of color-changing brush, it’s a popular destination.

The Lummi Nation brought the ashes of the last Southern Resident Orca in captivity back to Bellingham on Wednesday. Tokitae, also known as Sk'aliCh'elhtenaut to the Lummi Nation, was captured from the Puget Sound as a young orca and lived the next five decades of her life in captivity at the Miami Seaquarium. She died in August in the midst of efforts to bring her back to the Salish Sea to allow her to live out the rest of her life in a sea pen.

On September 17, 2023, in a stunning display of cycling prowess, Phil Gaimon, the former professional road racing cyclist, made it to the top. His supreme reign marked his historic win in the 2023 Mount Baker Hill Climb, the first-ever sold-out edition of the event. Gaimon exhibited his prowess participating in a stiff competition with 370 other riders. 

North Cascades National Park

Located about a three-hour drive east from Seattle along the incredibly picturesque North Cascades Scenic Byway, North Cascades National Park is home to some of the best trails for larch viewing.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

This park is home to jagged peaks topped with over 300 glaciers. It’s aptly named for the cascading glacial waters that make their way from the peaks into the valleys. From the second week of September, visitors get a special treat with glimpses of fall foliage starting – in this part of the country, some of the most spectacular fall foliage is the golden hue of the larches.

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Nooksack Falls In Washington

Much of the praise that The Deer Hunter gets for cinematography is owed to the titular hunting scenes, which were shot in the beautiful Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Nooksack Falls in Washington State.

Winter / Summer Drive on the Mount Baker Highway

Have you ever done the scenic drive on the Mount Baker Highway? This 58-mile route takes you from the town of Bellingham to the Mount Baker Ski Area. Along the way, you’ll see panoramic views of the North Cascades and Mount Baker.

Seattle To Vancouver

This epic road trip takes travelers all the way up to the Canadian Border, making for some truly remarkable sights. The bottom line is that road trip enthusiasts seeking a mesmerizing journey through the beauty of the fall season should look no further than the Seattle to Vancouver road trip route.

As the first electric vehicle (EV) in the Amtrak National Network, the bus — which is owned and operated by charter bus and shuttle transportation company MTRWestern — can make the nearly 200-mile round trip on one charge, Amtrak explains.

Located just below the Canadian and United States border, this delightful community is your gateway to wilderness adventure, artistic innovation, and cultural exchange. Packed with evocative history and exciting attractions, you’re sure to find your new favorite things to do in Bellingham.

Bellingham

Bellingham

This coastal college city of about 100,000 lies 90 miles north of Seattle and offers a taste of the classic Pacific Northwest lifestyle with stunning scenery, proximity to North Cascades National Park, many water activities, winter sports, and plenty of craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants.

North Cascades National Park

The park has a number of trail loops that range from easy to difficult, and all of them offer the opportunity to see different landscapes, view how different types of plants deal with the change of season, and view the peaks and valleys in all of their fall glory.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling? Here are some ideas.

• Go North: Discover world-class scenery, sculpture and seafood in Bellingham, Wash., the Pacific Northwest’s lesser-known jewel within easy reach of Seattle.

We’re always delighted when Bellingham, Washington’s Camber Coffee collaborates with a visual artist for their annual Artist Series coffee offerings. This year, the team worked with Canadian illustrator and muralist Paige Bowman. Bowman’s work “explores themes of identity and transformation through intricate visual storytelling,” explains Camber Coffee’s Ryan Russell.

11) Birch Bay State Park

Birch Bay State Park is a lesser-known beachfront camping destination in Washington. It's located just north of Bellingham and offers campers 147 standard sites and 20 partial hookup sites.

Bellingham 

Chuckanut Drive and Mount Baker Scenic Byway are two of the most notable scenic drives to take around Bellingham.  You’ll want to soak in all the sites and attractions around Bellingham, but the downtown area is also a perfect place to recharge with some fantastic seafood and a drink from any of the delightful cideries, breweries, or wineries.

Scenic Drives

If you want to traverse some of Washington’s enchanting landscapes, a scenic drive is a great way to do so. Chuckanut Drive is an option that takes you along Chuckanut Bay where the winding road hugs a beautiful sandstone cliff.

Scenic Drives and Byways

The state can’t be limited to just a few scenic drives, but there are some that, if you’re limited on time, promise exceptional sights. Meanwhile, Mount Baker Highway promises some of the finest views in Whatcom County, including Mount Shuksan reflected in Picture Lake.

There are three very important things you need to know about taking the Alaska ferry from Bellingham, Washington to Juneau, Alaska. First, the trip is one of the most serene transits through a stunningly beautiful landscape that it is possible to take. Second, this is a boat operated by the State of Alaska, not an Amtrak train or a plane operated by a major airline.

Today’s craft beer enthusiasts seem more interested in visiting brewery taprooms than attending beer festivals. The Sunnyland Fest in Bellingham takes place at eight brewery taprooms over the course of one long weekend. The object is to visit all of the taprooms in the Sunnyland neighborhood, each located within easy walking distance of the other, and sample beers.

There is nothing like a golden hour dirt jump session with the perfect vibe. This video was filmed at Trackside in Bellingham, Washington. Basically, there is a pump track and dirt jumps abutting an outdoor beer garden. Literally, everything you want in one location. There are multiple jump lines for all levels of difficulty. There are even community races on the pump track!

North Cascades National Park boasts an extensive network of trails, each with its own unique charm and breathtaking vistas. From the riverside view of Thunder Creek Trail to the more challenging and remote area of Copper Ridge Trail, there is something for every level of hiker.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

A lesser-known Pacific Northwest park that is fondly called “the Caribbean of Washington” by locals. Come to escape the crowds and stay for electric blue waters, some of the best hikes in the country, and with fewer people to contend with on the trails!

In a region where coffee is almost ubiquitous, Camber Coffee stands out. Based in Bellingham, Camber has racked up a slew of accolades, including being named best coffee roaster in Washington state by Food & Wine Magazine.

The last of these southern resident orcas, known by her stage name Lolita, died earlier this month in an aquarium in Miami. Many of the Lummi Nation in Washington state considered her family.

North Cascades National Park

Located in the north-central region of Washington state, the North Cascades National Park offers a staggering abundance of gorgeous scenery and just about every outdoor activity you can imagine.

North Cascades National Park is located in the northern part of Washington. This lesser known park offers fall colors starting in mid-September and is just 3-4 hours from Seattle. While in search for colorful foliage, families can enjoy hiking, backpacking, and water activities. The Cascade Loop is a great road trip to enjoy as the aspens turn yellow and the mountain ssh turn.

Did you know that the most glacier-concentrated terrain in the lower 48 is in the North Cascades National Park, located in the northern section of Washington state? There are over ~250 active glaciers contained within this park’s boundaries.

Chain Lakes Loop

This trail has a 4.8-star review on Alltrails from over 3,300 reviews. Reviewers particularly like the views offered by this roundtrip trail.

Yellow Aster Butte

This 7.5-mile is one of the more challenging yet rewarding hikes in Washington State. Located at Mount Baker, the Yellow Aster Butte out-and-back roundtrip trail is a long trek, taking about 5 hours and 20 minutes to complete.

North Cascades National Park Region

The North Cascades Mountains and surrounding parks contain over 300 glaciers, lakes, forests, and campgrounds. Camping is open in designated campgrounds throughout the park from May until September.

The new bus will provide daily, mid-day service to connect Seattle to Bellingham, with stops in Everett and Mount Vernon. It will connect to trains heading both to and from stations south of Seattle.

#6: North Cascades National Park

Not only is North Cascades National Park the largest national park in Washington, but it’s also one of the most scenic in the country — largely thanks to the sweeping Cascade Range.

I found it on Washington State’s northernmost volcano, Mount Baker (10,786 feet). From it flows the Nooksack River, a free-flowing stream that is nearest to its pre-industrial state, headwaters to the estuary, as any other river in this region.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

The mix of deciduous trees, such as maples and aspens, and the backdrop of the majestic North Cascades mountain range create a beautiful and vibrant display of fall colors.

Marcelo Lehninger, 43, succeeds the Bellingham Festival of Music’s (BFM) co-founder and conductor laureate, Michael Palmer, who led the festival between 1993 and 2022, and will lead one concert per year as of 2025.

The city of Bellingham in northwest Washington State is a coastal city with a population of about 100,000 people that’s a popular destination for outdoorsy types as well as summer holidaymakers from across the state and neighbouring Canada’s British Columbia province.

Upper Lodge to Artist Point Trail

Upper Lodge to Artist Point Trail is a beautiful trail located within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in northern Washington. It ranks among the best winter hiking trails in the state with good snowpack and sweeping mountain views everywhere you look.

On August 5th, 2023, Hannah Bergmann presented the third edition of Hangtime on Blue Steel Jumps in Bellingham, Washington. The event was a resounding success, drawing women from around the world for a jam on some world-class jumps.

Access to trails depends on staying in the good graces of land managers and other user groups. On August 9, 2023, the advocacy group called the Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition released a helpful guide on how not to behave as a mountain biker.

Taylor Shellfish in Bow, Washington 

At Taylor’s Samish Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market, you can feast waterfront on oysters, mussels, clams, and more all with a postcard-worthy view of the lighthouse. The family-owned farm has been growing oysters in the Puget Sound since 1890, and it’s a true taste of Western heritage.

The newly established Maritime Washington National Heritage Area rolled out a network of resources on its website to celebrate Washington’s seaside culture. 

What's the North Cascades equivalent of a deserted island? Desolation Peak, 16 miles by boat from the nearest road and 6,102 feet tall, topped with a simple one-room cabin. Every summer, a single worker trudges up the remote trail, hunkers down in the 81-year-old hut, and peers in all directions for signs of forest fire.

Peace Portal Drive — Blaine, Washington

In the coastal town of Blaine, Washington, a Starbucks location has taken a unique approach to blending in with the local aesthetics. Borrowing inspiration from its nautical surroundings, this Starbucks is ingeniously designed to resemble a lighthouse.

Bellingham

Outdoor lovers can enjoy the scenic walking trails and a series of waterfalls in Whatcom Falls Park, skiing activities at the Mount Baker Ski Area, mountain biking at Galbraith Mountain, spectacular cliffside views at Bellingham Chuckanut Drive, and many recreational activities at Larrabee State Park, Lake Padden, Lake Samish, and Lake Whatcom.

The Bellingham Farmers Market (bellinghamfarmers.org) began in the 1970s in various iterations, and as of 2006, found a permanent home in the Depot Market Square.

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Bellingham, Washington

If you love whales, you should visit Bellingham, a city in Whatcom County, Washington State. It’s a fantastic place in the northern region near Mount Baker, where exciting wildlife adventures on the Salish Sea await.

Point Roberts

Geography nerds should jump at a chance to visit this Washington exclave, a tiny peninsula cut off from the rest of the Evergreen State by a surveying error.

Point Roberts, Washington

It's an anomaly because to visit it by road, one has to drive 23 miles through British Columbia to access it. That is because it's not physically connected to the continental United States. 

2. Lynden, Washington 

Lynden, WA, is located a little over an hour away from Mt. Baker Ski Area, one of the snowiest resorts in the world. Mt. Baker Ski Area gets an average of more than 500 inches of snow a year and is also the record holder for most snowfall in a single season.

Bellingham, Washington 

While Bellingham has long been a mountain biking hotbed, it has risen to prominence in recent years thanks to many of the local trails going legit. The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is renowned for its illicit mountain bike trails, and for years you had to know somebody to find the goods in Bellingham.

2. Bellingham

Sitting in the shadow of Mount Baker is the adorable city of Bellingham. This city is known for its historic architecture and cute downtown area. 

Semiahmoo Resort

Anyone who loves wildlife will want to pay a visit to Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor. It’s a great place to see different types of birds, aquatic animals, and unique fauna and flora.

Bellingham

Bellingham is situated between North Cascade National Park and Salish Sea, only 20 miles from Canada. People are flocking to the town lately thanks to its reputation as an outdoorsman’s paradise.

Hike from Sea to Summit - Bellingham, Washington 

Bellingham, Washington sits between North Cascades National Park and the Pacific coast. Its trails range from easy waterfront routes to strenuous ascents ending at ice-blue glaciers. For views of the San Juan Islands, head out on an easy trail at Larrabee State Park.

The 1880s frontier town has grown into a community that thrives on art, craft beer, and outdoor adventures. Visitors will find plenty to do if you stay for a week or even if you only have 2 days in Bellingham.

Baker Lake

Within two hours of Seattle and a bit nearer to Bellingham is Baker Lake, which is well-liked all summer long. However, the lake’s enormous expanse and amenities help to keep things fairly dispersed.

Whatcom Falls Park

This little city park might sound unassuming, but it is one of the best day trips for waterfall hiking trails and ornate gardens. You walk along tiny paved hiking trails through heavily mossed forests – occasionally navigating stone bridges that look like something from a fairytale.

I graduated from Western Washington University in 2002 which is about 75 miles north of Seattle in Whatcom county. I lived in Bellingham for about two and a half years while I was attending Western Washington University. To say I spent a lot of my free time between classes fly fishing in this fabulous area would be a gigantic understatement. Bellingham itself and the rest of Whatcom county has some amazing places for people to cast a fly.

National parks with jaw-dropping scenery and abundant wildlife were the most adored by readers in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023. According to Travel + Leisure readers, the best national parks in the United States set themselves apart with tantalizing natural attractions and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

21. North Cascades National Park, Washington

We all know how gorgeous The Evergreen State is. There are destinations all around where you can enjoy some of the most jaw-dropping scenery.

Mount Baker Scenic Byway

Drive along this scenic byway to see some of the most diverse landscape the state of Washington has to offer.

North Cascades National Park

Home to more than 300 glaciers (the most of any park outside of Alaska) and upwards of 500 lakes, this 504,654-acre park is packed with scenic terrain, including meadows blanketed by wildflowers and rough-cut peaks, plus wildlife such as marmots, mountain goats, and moose.

Park Butte

Park Butte is among the most spectacular lookout hikes in the US. Located near Mount Baker, this is among the best trails in Washington State and offers unobstructed mountain views of Mount Baker, the Twin Sisters, and the landscape surrounding the North Cascades.

North Cascades National Park, Washington, 30,154 annual visitors: North Cascades is about three hours from Seattle and full of opportunities to hike, camp, boat or bike. 

Colonial Creek Falls, Washington

Deep in North Cascades National Park lies Washington’s largest waterfall, one of the biggest in the US. Colonial Creek is 4,000 feet across and has 15 drops of over 2,500 feet. However, the only way to see it is via one of the not-so-easy hikes in the park, so bring boots and be prepared!

 Bellingham, Washington

The Pacific Northwest is exemplified in Bellingham, the proper college town of Western Washington University (WWU). The dynamic setting is a defining element in Bellingham's personality, as it sits between the San Juan Islands and the North Cascade Mountains. 

North Cascades National Park

The stunning North Cascades National Park boasts a diverse landscape with a wide range of geographic features. There is a whopping 9,000-foot difference between the 500,000+ acre park’s highest and lowest points.

20 - Larrabee State Park

Larrabee State Park is located on the right side of Samish Bay near Bellingham in northwestern Washington. The views at Larrabee State Park are like something from a postcard. This state park was also the first one in the Washington system.

As much as we enjoy getting out and exploring the Evergreen State, it’s infinitely more fun with our faithful dog by our side. That’s why I’m excited to share Paws For A Beer, a dog-friendly tavern where guests are welcome and encouraged to bring their furry friends (we’re talking dogs here).

A vibrant gem along the Pacific coast, Bellingham, Washington is where a city meets the sea, with its options for visitors to explore history, nature and culinary delights. Bellingham Bay sits on the part of the Salish Sea that runs from British Columbia to Washington State.

9 - Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is easily worthy of a place with the most beautiful lakes in the world, and it is indeed worth a flight to Washington State. Located in the North Cascade National Park, this lake is among the most enchanting places in Washington.

Point Roberts: Exclave From The 49th Parallel

In the 1800s, the British and Americans were in competition to see who would control the upper Northwest Pacific. Eventually, the current border was agreed on, giving British Columbia to the British and Washington State to the United States.

4. Bellingham

If you like your adult beverages with a side of culture, start with a visit to the Whatcom Museum, a three-building collection of local and regional art, culture and history. You can also wander the well-preserved Fairhaven neighborhood, with its shops, restaurants and lovely bookstore, Village Books.

When a new brewery opens in a town that already has a number of beloved breweries, it usually takes some time for the local crowd to warm up. That was not the case when Stemma Brewing opened four years ago in the brewery-rich town of Bellingham.

11 - Bellingham

The beautiful coastal city of Bellingham in the Evergreen State’s northwest corner is a laid-back destination 22 miles (35 km) from the Canadian border, making it an excellent base to explore Puget Sound and southwest British Columbia.

1. Seattle to Bellingham (Amtrak Cascades)

Why not take a day train trip from Seattle and head somewhere else on an Amtrak train for the day? These European-style trains run along a 467-mile corridor.

When it comes to foodie towns, Bellingham may not be on your radar — but it should be. Located between the Salish Sea and Mt. Baker in northern Washington State, Bellingham is a food lover’s paradise. Locally owned restaurants take pride in creating their tasty fare with as many fresh, locally sourced, and organic ingredients as possible. 

Good Day Seattle and Studio 13 Live are on the road in one of Washington state's hidden gems, beautiful Bellingham! This morning Brian MacMillan spoke to Jon Dewitt, sales manager for Kulshan Brewing.

The Thunder Creek Trail is located within North Cascades National Park and begins in one of the park’s ancient forests. From there, the trail takes you into the heart of the park, following the turquoise blue, glacier-fed creek from its lower reaches all the way up to its origins on the slopes of Park Creek Pass.

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham’s location between the Cascade Mountains and the San Juan Islands made it a crucial trading post and transportation center after its incorporation in 1903. The Coast Salish peoples inhabited the coastal areas and islands around Bellingham Bay for thousands of years before the first Europeans reached its shores in 1853.  

Mount Baker Highway

Spanning nearly 60 miles and officially known as State Route 542, the Mount Baker Highway is the northernmost highway in Washington State. Offering glimpses of the Canadian Rockies, this beautifully scenic road trip begins in the city of Bellingham and leads all the way to the Artist Point hiking area.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Known as the “American Alps,” this park holds more than 400 miles of trails that take hikers and horseback riders to wildflower meadows, old-growth forests, glacier viewpoints, and remote lakes.

You've likely heard the phrase "farm to table,” but what about "seed to cheese?" That’s the motto at Ferndale Farmstead in Whatcom County, a family-run dairy farm and cheesemaking business.

I’m a Washington local with insights into the absolute best things to do in Bellingham!

Bellingham is the largest city in Whatcom County and one of the best places to visit in Washington state. You’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in The City of Subdued Excitement.

Boundary Bay Brewery is the winner of Best Destination Brewery in 2023's Best Northwest Escapes viewer's poll. 

Bellingham's Boundary Bay Brewery has been a destination for decades.

There's something about a circus. And a group of circus artists in Bellingham just took the ultimate leap of faith and gave theirs a semi-permanent home in a glorious new-used tent.

Technically speaking, I’ve been just-visiting Bellingham regularly for nearly 25 years now, but I still love to ask this question to locals: where should I go this weekend?

There’s no need to hop on a plane to visit a far-flung destination when there are plenty of wonderful spots to visit close to Metro Vancouver. One of our favourites is Bellingham, Washington, just south of the border and the largest city in Whatcom County.

95. Soak Up Island Views Along Scenic Chuckanut Drive

Chuckanut Drive may only be 22 miles long, but there are ample opportunities to get out of the car and soak up the sights on this scenic drive.

Bellingham

Right on Bellingham Bay, scenic views of the Pacific Ocean are hard to beat, while an assortment of waterfront stores, restaurants, cafes, and other buildings are truly delightful for visitors of any age.

Ross Lake Resort, Washington

This lodge in the crowd-free North Cascades features 15 “floating” cabins on the surface of Ross Lake—basically the national park version of overwater bungalows.

If you're planning a cruising trip south along the U.S. Coast, Blaine and Bellingham, WA, are two trip-worthy stops to add to your float plan.

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North Cascades National Park is an underrated U.S. national park located in the state of Washington. It’s less than three hours away from Seattle and offers stunning landscapes, from jagged mountain peaks to breathtaking glaciers.

3. North Cascades National Park has the most glaciers in the contiguous U.S.

Here’s a National Park fact I bet you didn’t know: Washington’s North Cascades has 300 glaciers and a heavy annual snowfall that helps the glaciers survive and continue to grow. 

But our closest city over the border holds a special place in my heart as the ideal near-far getaway—close enough to be an easy hour-plus drive to get here, and far enough to feel like I’ve left Vancouver’s busyness behind.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

There are more than 300 glaciers in North Cascades National Park. Known for its rugged beauty, this park—just three hours from Seattle, Washington—has earned the reputation of being the American Alps.

For the top spots, you’ll also notice an in-state duel between Mt Baker, WA, and Paradise, WA.

#1 Mt Baker, WA 1998/99 – 1,140 inches

2. North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, but what it lacks in visitors it makes up in flora, fauna, and tranquility. 

"Bellingham is definitely a place that challenges my riding. There’s such a big trail building culture in the area and endless amounts of trails to ride. I’ve ridden some of the steepest tech ever in Bellingham. There’s an insane amount of loamy trails, jumps, rock slabs and so much more. The level of riding is also super high, when ever you go on a ride with someone, it’s full on. I love it!!"

Today, this port city has all the charms of a secluded, small town yet also the energy and amenities you’d expect from a buzzing metropolis. Crumbling historic buildings stand alongside glassy new hotels and condominiums. You can spend an entire day roaming the urban landscape or slip into nature by paddling through Bellingham Bay or hiking across nearby Chuckanut Mountain Park.

Farm to Table Trail Pass guides diners through Bellingham

The Farm to Table Trail in Bellingham, Washington, is a win-win for visitors and the city's restaurants. 

Indeed, you may have driven right through the Peace Arch City on your way to visit our neighbors in Canada. However, this small “blink-and-you-might-miss-it” town is undoubtedly worth exploring.

North Cascades National Park (Washington)

Created in 1968, North Cascades boasts more plant species than any other national park — 1,630 and counting.

Route: Meadowdale Beach Park > Maltby Cafe > Snohomish > Larrabee State Park > Bellingham

Enjoy some window shopping in the charming town of Snohomish before you head to Larrabee State Park for some incredibly picturesque views of Samish Bay.

Birch Bay State Park

Boasting a shoreline with salt water and an opposite shoreline with fresh water, the park is a top destination for tourists looking to spend time on the beach looking for shellfish. 

Bellingham Off Road Triathlon

The Bellingham Off Road Triathlon is a true Pacific Northwestern adventure all wrapped up into one event. Athletes begin with an 800-meter freshwater swim in picturesque Lake Padden with mist-shrouded pine trees.

If you’d sailed into the San Juan archipelago over 200 years ago, you might have seen Lummi fishermen in two dugout canoes anchored parallel to each other, a net in the water between them. 

Bellingham, WA

Bellingham, which is about 90 miles outside of Seattle, is where the Washington coastline and Canadian border meet, and its cute-as-can-be downtown area offers a mix of eateries, art galleries, theaters and shops.

The outdoors drives many things to do in Whatcom County in northwestern Washington State. The Cascade Mountains and the Salish Sea waters are natural landmarks contributing to this county’s visitor appeal.

The North Cascades National Park may not be as famous as Yellowstone and Yosemite, but that doesn't mean it's not as gorgeous. Within its 505,000-acre area are a vast unspoiled wilderness, ancient glaciers, massive lakes, and conifer-laden mountains. 

The Pacific Northwest is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and the North Cascades specifically is one of the most popular regions. Explorers and hikers dream of the rugged mountain views, lush forests, and blue waters.

Mt. Baker Ski Area, Bellingham, Washington

Powder hounds will love camping out in the parking lot at Mt. Baker Ski Area because it gets the most annual snowfall of any ski area in North America.

6. Mount Baker Theater, Bellingham

Since the theater opened in 1927, inexplicable noises, ghosts, and frigid corridors are only a few of the spine-tingling experiences that have been said to have occurred here, especially when the audience is leaving. More reports include gusts of cold air, balls of light, and a strange voice calling out people's names.

Besides, what could be more convenient than ordering and eating in the comfort of your own car? Boomer’s Drive-In in Bellingham is the kind of place you can get your fill of great food and nostalgia. In fact, you can still order burgers by the sack at this old-school eatery in Washington.

Bellingham, Washington

Midway between Seattle and the Canadian city of Vancouver, Bellingham is a wonderful stop for those travelling to these major cities. Yet even on its own the city of Bellingham is a great attraction, where splendid culture and pristine nature come together. 

Bellingham

This college town, located just 25 miles south of the Canadian border, is a fantastic hiking place. Although it’s not as well-known to out-of-town visitors, it’s popular with locals. The Chuckanut Mountains are the closest and have numerous trails to lakes, viewpoints of the ocean, and parks

Not far from the Canadian border, Bellingham is a Northwest gem of a city and represents everything the region has to offer. With seaside access to the San Juan Islands and only a stone's throw from North Cascades National Park, Bellingham is convenient to several of Washington's best attractions.

On the drive up I-5, it suddenly materializes, emerging from white mists that cling like spiderwebs to the towering, emerald-black Chuckanut Mountains. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and situated between two global cities—two hours south to Seattle or north to Vancouver, Canada—Bellingham, Washington is a place best known for its proximity to other places, loved as much for what it’s not as what it is.

North Cascades National Park, Washington: For Spectacular Scenery And Glacier Views

North Cascades National Park is one of the underrated US national parks to visit in 2023, especially for travelers looking to explore the breathtaking scenery and plenty of gorgeous glacier views.

Looking for a day trip or weekend getaway to explore parks, shops, and good food? Pack your car and head to Bellingham. Nestled between Seattle, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia, you’ll find the town of Bellingham. A coastal city in the Pacific Northwest, Bellingham is located on Bellingham Bay and is the port for ferries traveling to Alaska.

The Shire Built trail crew, consisting of Spencer Baldwin and Scotty Scamehorn, (though not entirely limited to these two) have crafted some of Bellingham, Washington‘s most popular mountain bike trails on Mt. Galbraith, they’ve dug for athletes at Red Bull Rampage, and are digging themselves an even sweeter career path.

The beer scene in Bellingham just keeps booming. The city is now home to more than a dozen breweries with even more on the way. In recent months, two new breweries opened and two of the existing breweries opened new taprooms. But that’s not all! 

Larrabee State Park

Designated in 1915, this is the first in the Washington State Park system and it preserves a coastal expanse of the Chuckanut Mountains.

Larrabee Lager - Bellingham, WA

Milne moved back to Bellingham in 2021 and began working in a centrally located business park space at 4151 Meridian St, to open his passion project Larrabee Lager Co. and completely commit to that ethos of lager first.

Bellingham 

Bellingham is another charming city surrounded by scenic nature in Washington, which is a stunning option for a weekend escape! Bellingham is known for its majestic waterfalls, so you must visit Whatcom Falls and Nooksack Falls to get your waterfall fix and, oh, the fresh smell of nature!

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Vickie chats with co-host Jamie Hale about her first snowshoeing experience on Mt. Baker, as well as the rest of her roadtrip there.

Bellingham, Washington is undoubtedly among the best beer cities in the pacific northwest with with nearly 20 breweries, most of them good to great and many worth traveling for.

Western Washington University

The town of Bellingham (population about 92,000) is close to Seattle and is on most tourists’ radars as it is the main launch point for ferries leaving the lower 48 destined for Alaska via the Inside Passage. Whatcom County is also home to six different locations on the Cascade Loop, which is a major draw.

North Cascades National Park, Washington - 30,154 recreation visits

Peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers tower over this alpine landscape. More than 1,600 species of plants have been identified on this land that spans temperate rainforest to a dry ponderosa pine ecosystem.

One of Vancouverites’ favourite places to head for a day trip is Bellingham, the small but charming city just south of the border in Washington.At around a one-and-a-half-hour drive, Bellingham is nearby but also feels like a change of pace from Vancouver, with its old brick buildings, numerous thrift stores, and small-town vibes.

In 2015, the small town of Bellingham in northwestern Washington held an unofficial flag design contest run by a local arts organization. That’s where Bradley Lockhart first got a taste for flag redesign.

What is special about North Cascades?

North Cascades National Park is also dear to Payne, who grew up in Washington and visited the park throughout her childhood.

Diablo Lake

This artificial lake is placed at an elevation of 1,201 ft between Ross Lake and George Lake in the Ross Lake Recreation Area within the North Cascades National Park. The distinctive turquoise color of the lake’s water is due to the surrounding glaciers that have grinded rocks into fine rock particles called glacial flour, which reach the lake via creeks.

Blaine

Experience a vacation to remember at Semiahmoo Resort, a casual PNW seaside destination in Blaine, WA that offers fun for everyone in the family. Boredom-busting activities abound at Semiahmoo.

Bellingham, Washington’s white hot 3-year-old Stemma Brewing Company has signed a distribution deal with Buoy Beer Co. owned Washington distributor River Barrel Distributing. River Barrel Distributing serves Seattle’s King County and the Greater Western area of Pierce, Thurston, Lewis, Snohomish, Kitsap, and Grays Harbor Counties.

Good news for anyone who has ever sat in a bar at last call and lamented when the bartender says, "You don't have to go home but you can't stay here." 

At one Bellingham brewery, you can stay.