Big Rock Garden Park
Hidden gem in a residential neighborhood. Outdoor sculptures set among trees, rhododendrons and azaleas with an Asian feel.
Parking: Limited. Space for about 12-15 vehicles.
Note: Use caution when turning into the driveway, it is single lane for two-way traffic.
hours
Daily, dawn to dusk
About
Hidden away in a residential neighborhood east of downtown Bellingham is the tranquil Big Rock Garden Park, a 2.5-acre gem surrounded by evergreens. As you enter through the easy-to-miss single lane entrance, you’re transported to a peaceful oasis showcasing over 37 sculptures nestled along winding trails through lush gardens.
Originally a sculpture garden, the property was purchased by the city of Bellingham in 1993 and is located just northwest of Lake Whatcom.
In spring, the rhododendrons are in full bloom, coating the landscape in vibrant pinks, reds, and purples. Native plants mingle with Japanese maples and azaleas amongst tall evergreens.
When to Go
Depending on the species, Rhododendrons bloom in Bellingham from approximately March through May.
Azaleas bloom mid to late spring.
Japanese Maple’s leaves turn color around October.
The entire park is encircled by a traditional Japanese-style wall, which separates it from the neighboring houses and keeps the local deer out.
At the heart of the garden sits a pagoda, providing a shady resting spot to take in the surroundings in quiet tranquility. There are other benches scattered throughout the garden.
A lack of an obvious trail map was actually welcome, forcing us to randomly explore the different paths that meander through the garden. At 2.5 acres, it’s easy enough to allow yourself to get a little lost without ever truly losing your way out.
Big Rock Garden is the perfect spot to spend an hour wandering the trails, discovering the sculptures peeking out from behind flowering bushes, and soaking in the artistic and natural beauty. In some ways, I was reminded of Hakone Gardens in San Jose, CA, on a smaller scale. And, because this is a public park, free.
The park is easy to walk in less than an hour, and there is some minor climbing.
Big Rock Garden is an often overlooked haven of serenity in the midst of the city, making it feel like your own private garden escape. I’ve lived in the area for over 20 years and this was my first visit, but definitely not my last. I want to return in fall to see the autumn colors.
To get there:
From Alabama St., turn north on Sylvan St. Follow Sylvan until you see the entrance on the right.
From Northshore Dr.: Turn on Silver Beach Drive. Turn right on Sylvan street and continue a hundred yards or so until you see the entrance on the right.
