Dan's Traverse and Interurban Trail

Starting near Whatcom County, Washington, this 12 km (approximately 7.5 miles) out-and-back trail offers a moderate challenge with an elevation gain of around 600 meters (about 1,970 feet). The trailhead is conveniently located near the Chuckanut Drive, a scenic byway that provides easy access whether you're arriving by car or public transport. If you're driving, you can park at the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead, which is the closest significant landmark.

### Getting There For those using public transport, the nearest bus stop is at the intersection of Chuckanut Drive and Old Samish Road. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead. If you're driving, take I-5 to exit 250 and follow signs for Chuckanut Drive. The North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead offers ample parking, but it can fill up quickly on weekends, so an early start is advisable.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through lush, temperate rainforest. You'll be surrounded by towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars, with the forest floor carpeted in ferns and moss. About 2 km (1.2 miles) in, you'll encounter a series of switchbacks that mark the start of the more strenuous portion of the hike. These switchbacks will take you up approximately 300 meters (984 feet) in elevation over the next 3 km (1.9 miles).

### Significant Landmarks At around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll reach a viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea. This is a great spot to take a break and soak in the scenery. Continuing on, the trail levels out somewhat as you traverse along the ridge. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife in this area, including black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and occasionally, black bears.

### Historical Significance The region has a rich history, with the trail itself following parts of old logging routes from the early 20th century. The area was heavily logged for its valuable timber, and remnants of this history can still be seen in the form of old logging equipment and rail ties scattered along the trail.

### Navigation and Safety Given the moderate difficulty of the trail, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to keep track of your progress and ensure you stay on course. The trail is well-marked, but weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Make sure to bring adequate water, snacks, and layers of clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.

### Flora and Fauna As you make your way back, take the time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna. The lower sections of the trail are home to a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls. In the spring and early summer, wildflowers such as trillium and bleeding heart add splashes of color to the landscape.

### Final Stretch The descent back to the trailhead is much easier on the legs, but still requires careful footing, especially if the trail is wet. Once you reach the bottom, you'll find yourself back in the serene, shaded forest that marked the beginning of your journey.

This trail offers a rewarding mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and physical challenge, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.