Day Trips and Travel Destinations for WWU Students

It's no secret that an assortment of national forests, trailheads, and mountains surround Western Washington University for community members to enjoy. For these Bellinghamsters though, some places stand out above the rest.

“My favorite destination in Whatcom County is Lummi Island. Even though it's only a short drive from Bellingham, you feel like you're hours away on a beautiful, secluded island,” said Becky Mandelbaum, communications manager for Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism by e -mail.

For students without access to a car, the local bus system accesses local trails, including the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead.

“From this trailhead… you can access a range of trails, some steeper, muddier and leading to lookouts… and there are also lower trails that are gravel and flatter,” he said. said Katrina Doerflinger, Outdoor Center trip leader and fifth-year student.

The Outdoor Center is an on-campus community that engages students in outdoor activities and highlights the areas surrounding Western. The Outdoor Center offers equipment rentals, day trips and overnight trips for as little as $5.

Doerflinger also recommends Samish Crest Open Space, located east of campus, for your next adventure.

“There are lots of great trails for walking and cycling. It’s surrounded by neighborhoods…a great place to see a bunch of dogs.

Another trip leader, Cora Murphy, said she would recommend “literally anything on the Mount Baker Highway”

The Mount Baker Highway provides access to a wide range of trails as well as the mountain area itself. Please note that access points to the Mount Baker ski area may vary depending on the season.

“There is an old growth forest accessible by the Mount Baker Highway…there is a pull-off for about one or two cars maximum and there is a small social trail (an unmaintained but accessible trail) through a group of huge Douglas firs over 300 years old and me. I love this place. Said Doerflinger.

As winter approaches, Mount Baker Ski Area offers eight lifts and two drag lifts for skiers and snowboarders. They also offer discounted prices on season passes for full-time students upon proof of eligibility.

Just north of Bellingham is the waterfront Birch Bay State Park. It is accessible by car and offers over a hundred campsites as well as trails, beach access and fire pits.

“I love going to Birch Bay… experiencing this whole area and nature hangout is awesome,” said Abigail Anderson, trip leader and fourth-year recreation management and leadership student.

To make things more cost-effective, the Whatcom Transportation Authority offers a discounted bus pass for students. Other students also recommend carpooling and bringing your own food.

“For other day trips, I would definitely suggest Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish…The views are incredible and can definitely motivate students after a hard week at school,” said junior Annika Bevers. year of biology. “You can walk around and explore the trails or just sit back, relax and breathe some fresh air.”

If you're looking to research your next excursion, Whatcom County, Washington website includes an overview of all trails and parks located in Whatcom County, including their difficulty level and distance.

Visit Bellingham Whatcom County is another great resource for students to use. Under their “Adventures” tab is information on parks, trails, snow sports, water adventures, biking, and hiking. They also provide accommodation information for local travel, including campgrounds.

“The best thing about Bellingham is the variety of parks and green spaces, most of which are completely free,” Mandelbaum said. Whatcom Falls, Lake Whatcom Park, and Padden Lake are a few places in town you can explore without needing a pass.

Passes and permits may be required for many national forest trailheads, wilderness areas, picnic areas, etc. For more information on obtaining these students, you can visit the National Forest Service website.