When the summer sun shines, all thoughts turn to playing in and on the water. Unique to Whatcom County, the Birch Bay Waterslides is a sure bet for a fun, water-based activity.
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Kids and adults splash around in the activity pool.[/caption]
The park caters to all ages: from a kiddie pool and slide for those ages 8 and younger to a hot tub where the adults can relax while the kids explore the park. The activity pool has a shallow beach-style entry and is a fun place for young and old to romp.
The four main “tower” slides – the Snake, Hairpin, Corkscrew and Twister – are grouped at one end of the park and meant for individual riders. The River Ride takes riders down on one- or two-person rafts (our family favorite). The ramp is a short, wide slide that allows youngsters to slide on their parent’s lap.
The other end of the park is meant for brave souls who aren’t afraid to face the “black slides.” The Black Hole is a fully encased black tube, suitable for ages 5 and up. (My kids, ages 8 and 11, LOVED this slide.) The Drop, a 60-foot tall slide that drops nearly straight down, is for those 12 and older.
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The "black slides" include a slide with a 60-foot drop.[/caption]
Since the waterslides are a one-of-a-kind attraction in the area (the next closest waterslides stateside are 100 miles to the south), be prepared for crowds on the sunniest days. Fortunately, the lines move fairly quickly, although I’d still suggest packing your patience and planning to spend a good portion of your day at the park.
If you’re planning a day-long experience, you have the option to buy refreshments at the concessions stand or Birch Bay Pizza, or you may bring in food from home, although coolers and glass containers are not allowed inside the park.
You can also bring your own umbrella or shelter to protect you from the elements. The park does have some shaded areas and shelters, but they are limited. Rows of deck chairs are situated near the four tower slides and the day-use lockers, and picnic tables are available in a grassy area at the opposite end of the park. Visitors will also find sand volleyball court and basketball court.
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Ready to slide![/caption]
Once on top of the platform for the four main slides, you have a great view of the entire park and out to Birch Bay. As you head down one of the four slides, it all whizzes past you as you slip and slide down to the pool below.
Then, it’s back to the top to do it all again.
Birch Bay Waterslides, 4874 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd, Blaine
• Open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Cost: $19.95 for ages 6 & older, $12.95 for children 3-5 or seniors
• Late day entry, after 3 p.m. – save $5 off regular rate
• Lockers are available to rent. A $5 deposit is required, and you receive $2 back when the key is returned.
• Life jackets are allowed, and are available to rent.
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Your kids will be happy and tired after a day at the Birch Bay Waterslides![/caption]
