The best cycling routes around Bellingham

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Bellingham, offering a wide range of experiences for different skill levels and preferences.

Bellingham offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes. You'll find approximately 14 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging route, ensuring options for cyclists of all abilities.

Bellingham's touring cycling routes showcase a unique blend of mountain and ocean environments. You can expect to ride through the dramatic Chuckanut Mountains, along the shores of Lake Whatcom, beside Bellingham Bay and the Salish Sea, and through forested parks and along the Nooksack River.

Yes, many routes provide stunning vistas. For breathtaking views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands, consider routes that incorporate Chuckanut Drive. The Franklin to Diamond Hill Reservoir loop also offers varied terrain around the reservoir. From higher elevations, you can often see the North Cascades and Olympic Mountains.

Absolutely. The Railroad Trail offers an easy and scenic touring option along Lake Whatcom with gentle grades. The South Bay Trail also provides a multi-use, paved experience along Bellingham Bay, connecting to the Fairhaven Historic District. For a route through conservation land, try the Weston Pond to Adams Street Conservation Land loop via Fairbanks Land.

Many routes pass by or near notable attractions. You can cycle through the charming Upper Charles Trail, explore Adams Street Conservation Land, or enjoy the scenery around Hopedale Pond and Parklands and Louisa Lake. The Fairhaven Historic District is also a popular starting or ending point for many rides.

Yes, Bellingham offers several excellent loop routes. The Town Forest – Town Forest Trail loop from Nstar Subject takes you through forested areas. Other popular loops include the "Three Lakes Loop" and "Mosquito Lake Loop" for longer rides through diverse scenery, and coastal options like the "Lummi Loop" and "Birch Bay Lollipop".

The mild summer weather, with around 160 days of sunshine annually and moderate temperatures, makes summer an ideal time for touring cycling in Bellingham. Spring and fall also offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal foliage.

Yes, several routes are family-friendly, particularly those that are paved and have gentle grades. The Railroad Trail along Lake Whatcom and the South Bay Trail are excellent choices for families, offering scenic views and a relaxed riding experience.

The touring cycling routes in Bellingham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from mountain backdrops and lake shores to coastal paths, and the variety of options available for different ability levels.

Yes, Bellingham is recognized as an excellent destination for gravel biking. Many routes combine paved roads with unpaved greenway trails and singletrack, expanding the possibilities for off-road cycling adventures and offering a different kind of touring experience.

Certainly. The South Bay Trail runs along Bellingham Bay and connects directly to the Fairhaven Historic District, a charming area with 19th-century architecture, unique shops, and cafes. This allows for a blend of scenic waterfront riding and urban exploration.