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Best river hikes in Whatcom County
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Best river hikes in Whatcom County

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Whatcom County.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra difficult

Northern North Cascades Loop

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.6 (9) · 52.6 km · Est. 3 days

2

Extra difficult

Western Pasayten - Ross Lake Loop

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.9 (9) · 117.6 km · Est. 6 days

3

Easy

Whatcom Creek Greenway and Whatcom Falls Park Loop

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.8 (14) · 6.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 31 min

4

Easy

Nooksack River

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.4 (7) · 6.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 23 min

5

Difficult

Church Mountain Trail

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.5 (15) · 12.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 40 min

6

Easy

Sterling Miller Overlook and Skagit River Loop

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.8 (9) · 3.1 km · Est. 44 min

7

Easy

Racehorse Falls Out and Back

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.5 (19) · 993 m · Est. 13 min

8

Difficult

Glacier View and Heliotrope Ridge Trail

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.4 (14) · 8.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 16 min

9

Difficult

Diablo Lake Trail and Ross Dam Trail

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.4 (7) · 18.5 km · Est. 5 hrs 53 min

10

Medium

Nooksack Cirque Trail

Whatcom County, Washington · star 4.7 (3) · 15.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 42 min

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Reviews for river hikes in Whatcom County

شایان حسینی avatar

Northern North Cascades Loop

شایان حسینی · reviewed almost 6 years ago

star star star star star

Charlie Palmer avatar

Western Pasayten - Ross Lake Loop

Charlie Palmer · reviewed about 6 years ago

star star star star star

Jeremy Nichols avatar

Whatcom Creek Greenway and Whatcom Falls Park Loop

WildernessWanderer_JN · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

A nice easy trail for the most part. Most of it can be walked with a stroller or someone with limited mobility. Beautiful suburban space.

Cedrick Trantow avatar

Nooksack River

BluffPioneer41 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Stephan Rempel avatar

Church Mountain Trail

CedarWayfarer13 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Whatcom County

What is the climate like for hiking in Washington?

In Washington, spring brings pleasant temperatures for hiking, though trails can be wet. Come summer, east Washington can be hot while west remains moderate. Fall brings stunning colors, cool temperatures, and drier trails. Winter is challenging with snowy conditions. Check Washington Trails Association for seasonal hiking suggestions.

Do I need a permit to hike in Washington?

In Washington, some hiking areas require permits. Check with specific land management agencies like National Park Service or US Forest Service for requirements. Wilderness permits can often be obtained at trailheads or ranger stations. The https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes provides comprehensive permit information.

Is wild camping allowed in Washington?

Wild camping, or dispersed camping, is permitted in certain areas of Washington, often requiring permits. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and restrictions regarding fire safety, waste disposal, and distance from water bodies. Visit the US Forest Service for details.

Are there mountain rescue services in Washington?

In Washington, dial 911 for mountain emergencies, they'll alert the appropriate services. This often involves volunteer organizations like Seattle Mountain Rescue. Before hiking, ensure you have adequate insurance as rescues can be costly. More information at the Seattle Mountain Rescue website.

Are there dangerous plants in Washington?

Washington's diverse flora is impressive for hikers. Expect western hemlock, Douglas fir, and salal in coastal regions. The alpine areas have subalpine fir, heather, and lupine. Forests transition into sagebrush in the arid eastern region. For detailed knowledge, refer to Washington Native Plant Society.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Washington?

From coastal to alpine environments, Washington's diverse fauna presents black bears, cougars, deer, and unique birds like bald eagles. Along trails, watch for insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Safe wildlife practices are essential, refer to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.

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