Hertz Trail – Lake Whatcom
Easy lakeside trail along historic rail corridor. Three waterfalls. Three miles.
Parking: 2 lots. Main lot is Access 2 with restroom. Access Hertz via .2 mile connector trail through forest. Access 1 lot is smaller (12-15 cars) and nearer the lake.
hours
Daily, dawn to dusk
About
Located a short drive (about 15-20 minutes) from downtown Bellingham, Lake Whatcom Park offers a network of trails winding through lush second-growth forests and along the shoreline of Lake Whatcom, the county’s largest lake.
One of the highlights is the popular Hertz Trail, a 3.3 mile path that follows the gentle grade of an old railroad corridor.
Originally the path of the Bellingham Bay & Eastern Railroad in the late 1800s, the Hertz Trail is now a well maintained trail hugging the lake’s eastern shoreline.
The wide, level terrain makes for easy walking (or running or biking) as you enjoy the lull of lapping waves against the banks and the gentle birdsong in the trees.
Three small waterfalls tumble down the steep hillside into the lake and provide picturesque stopping points along the way. The first one is about 1 mile in, and a foot bridge crosses the stream where it enters the lake.
We went as far as the first waterfall on a recent afternoon visit. Since they are spaced along the trail (thanks Mother Nature) each one makes a convenient stopping point so you can choose how long you hike. Just so you know, this trail does not loop, you need to turn around and go back to return to your car so plan accordingly.
This is a popular trail, however there have been black bear sightings on occasion so stay aware.
To access the trail, park at one of the two main lots. Lot 2 is the first on your left after entering the park, while the smaller Lot 1 is about a quarter mile further down the road, placing you even closer to the Hertz trailhead. From Lot 2, follow a connector trail through lush woods for 0.2 miles to meet up with the wider Hertz Trail.
For those seeking more of a workout, the Chanterelle Trail can be accessed from Lot 2 as well, gaining 1000 feet of elevation to reward hikers with stunning views overlooking Lake Whatcom below.
However you choose to explore, the trails at Lake Whatcom Park offer the chance to exercise your body and recharge your mind in a natural setting without straying far from town.
To get there:
From Alabama street, turn left on Northshore Drive. Follow it around to the east side of the lake and continue south. Stay to the right at the Fork restaurant. Continue on Northshore. The entrance to Lake Whatcom Park will be on your left.
You can also access Northshore Dr. from Barkley Blvd. Turn right on Britton Rd. at the end of Barkley. Turn left onto Northshore Drive at the 3 way stop sign and continue east and then south around the lake as above.
From Sunset/Mt. Baker Hwy, turn south on Britton Road. At the 3 way stop, turn left on Northshore Dr and proceed east and south around the lake as above.
Watch your speed on Northshore Drive. It is fairly narrow with minimal shoulders, plenty of curves and you may encounter cyclists, especially on a nice day.
