If you’re a mountain biking enthusiast in the Pacific Northwest, you won’t want to miss Larrabee State Park. Located in Whatcom County, Washington, this beautiful state park offers some of the most scenic and challenging mountain biking trails in the region. With over 2,700 acres of pristine forest, rocky ridges, and secluded lakes, Larrabee State Park is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Larrabee State Park has something to offer everyone. With 14 different mountain biking trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult, you can find the perfect route for your skill level and experience. From the scenic views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands to the challenging climbs and thrilling descents, Larrabee State Park is an unforgettable destination for mountain bikers.
As Washington’s oldest state park, Larrabee State Park is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. With its stunning natural beauty, challenging terrain, and world-class mountain biking trails, it’s no wonder that this park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable mountain biking adventure, grab your gear and head to Larrabee State Park today.
Table of Contents
Getting There
If you’re looking to mountain bike at Larrabee State Park, you’ll need to know how to get there. Here’s what you need to know:
Directions and Map
Larrabee State Park is located just south of Bellingham, Washington, and is easily accessible by car. To get there, take Chuckanut Drive (Hwy. 11) south from Bellingham for about 10 miles. The park entrance will be on your right.
If you’re coming from the south, take I-5 north to the Fairhaven Parkway exit (Exit 250). Turn left onto Old Fairhaven Parkway, then left again onto 12th Street. Follow 12th Street until it becomes Chuckanut Drive. Continue on Chuckanut Drive for about 2.5 miles, and the park entrance will be on your left.
Once you’re in the park, there are several parking areas available. The main parking area is located near the beach, but there are also smaller parking areas located throughout the park that provide access to the trails.
To help you navigate the park, be sure to bring a map. You can find a map of the park on the Washington State Parks website, or you can pick up a printed map at the park entrance.
Overall, getting to Larrabee State Park is easy and straightforward. Whether you’re coming from Bellingham or the south, just follow Chuckanut Drive and you’ll be there in no time.
Exploring the Park
Larrabee State Park is a beautiful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 2,748 acres of land and 8,100 feet of saltwater shoreline, the park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. In this section, we will explore the various ways you can enjoy the park.
Trails and Hiking
Larrabee State Park is home to a variety of trails that offer stunning views of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. The Fragrance Lake Trail is one of the most popular routes in the park. This easy-to-moderate trail takes you around the lake and up through an old-growth forest. As you walk, keep your eyes peeled for birds, deer, and other wildlife. The total distance of this hike is 5.5 miles (roundtrip) with an elevation gain of 950 feet.
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try the Ridge and Double Down Loop. This intermediate mountain bike ride is suitable for all skill levels, but good fitness is required. The loop is 17.2 km long with an elevation gain of 680 m.
Mountain Biking
Larrabee State Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers. The park offers a range of multi-use trails that are suitable for both hiking and biking. The Mullet – Evolution Trail loop from South Bellingham is a popular route that takes you through the heart of the park. This 30 km loop is rated as intermediate and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.
For more experienced riders, the Double Diamond to Double Down trail is a challenging route that offers stunning views of Samish Bay. This 2.4-mile bike-only trail has an elevation gain of 1,684 feet.
Water Activities
If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, Larrabee State Park offers a range of water activities. The park’s saltwater shoreline is perfect for beach exploration, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards from the park’s concession stand and explore the waters of Samish Bay.
Please note that a Discover Pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. You can purchase a pass online or at the park entrance.
In summary, Larrabee State Park is a beautiful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or enjoying the water, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to bring your camera and capture the stunning views of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands.
Camping and Amenities
If you’re planning on mountain biking at Larrabee State Park, you’ll be pleased to know that there are camping facilities available for those who want to stay overnight. The park has a 2,748-acre camping area that offers a range of amenities for visitors.
Campground Details
The camping area offers 51 tent sites and 26 utility sites, all of which have access to a dump station. The park also has ADA amenities, including ADA campsites and an ADA shower. If you’re looking for a place to relax, there are picnic shelters and barbecue grills available for use. Additionally, there is an amphitheater and fire circles for evening entertainment.
If you’re interested in metal detecting, be sure to check with the park’s staff before doing so. Sailboarding is also allowed at the park, but you’ll need to bring your own equipment.
ADA Facilities
Larrabee State Park offers a range of amenities for visitors with disabilities. The park has ADA campsites and an ADA shower, making it easier for those with disabilities to enjoy the park’s facilities. Additionally, there are designated fire pits and grills that are accessible to those with disabilities.
If you’re planning on using propane or gas grills, be sure to bring your own as they are not provided by the park. The park also has showers available for use, so you can freshen up after a long day of mountain biking.
Overall, Larrabee State Park’s camping facilities offer a range of amenities that make it easy for visitors to enjoy the park. With its beautiful scenery and range of activities, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
Park Regulations and Fees
Passes and Licenses
To enter Larrabee State Park, you need a Discover Pass. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass online, at the park, or at any licensed retailer. If you plan on camping overnight, you will also need to pay a camping fee. The park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
If you plan on fishing, you will need to obtain a recreational license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The park also offers a boating program, so if you plan on launching a watercraft, you will need to pay a launching fee.
Park Rules
Larrabee State Park has a few rules that visitors must follow. Dogs are allowed on a leash, but owners must clean up after their pets. Horses are allowed in designated areas only. There are noise restrictions in place, and quiet hours are enforced from 10 pm to 6 am.
During the summer months, there may be a burn ban in place due to high fire danger. Visitors should check with the park before starting any fires. Smoking is also prohibited in the park.
The park is located near the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad and Amtrak tracks, so visitors should be aware of train noise and exercise caution when crossing the tracks.
Before leaving the park, visitors should stop by the welcome booth to check out and make sure they are in compliance with all park regulations. Finally, during the winter months, some areas of the park may be closed due to seasonal closures or winterization efforts.
Overall, Larrabee State Park offers a beautiful location for mountain biking, but visitors must follow all park regulations and pay the necessary fees to enjoy the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best mountain biking trails at Larrabee State Park?
Larrabee State Park boasts a variety of mountain biking trails for all skill levels. Some of the most popular trails include Ridge and Double Down, Mullet, and Chuckanut Ridge Trail. These trails offer stunning views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands, as well as challenging terrain for experienced riders.
Are there any double black diamond trails at Larrabee State Park?
No, there are no double black diamond trails at Larrabee State Park. However, there are plenty of intermediate and advanced trails that offer a challenging ride for experienced riders.
What is the mountain bike map for Larrabee State Park?
The official mountain bike map for Larrabee State Park can be found on the Washington State Parks website. The map includes all of the trails in the park, as well as information on trail difficulty and length.
Where can I find beginner mountain bike trails at Galbraith Mountain?
If you’re looking for beginner mountain bike trails in the area, Galbraith Mountain is a great place to start. With over 50 miles of trails, Galbraith Mountain offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, including several beginner-friendly trails.
What are some other mountain bike trails in Whatcom County?
In addition to Larrabee State Park and Galbraith Mountain, Whatcom County has several other great mountain bike trails. Some popular options include Lake Padden Park, Stewart Mountain Trail, and Blanchard Mountain Trail.
Do I need a pass to mountain bike at Larrabee State Park?
Yes, you will need a Discover Pass to park at Larrabee State Park and access the mountain biking trails. The Discover Pass can be purchased online or at a variety of retailers throughout the state.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve always felt at home in the outdoors. We created Evergreen Adventures PNW to share our love of hiking, camping, and exploring, and to help others discover the best adventures this region has to offer. Along with trip guides and tips, we also enjoy diving into the science behind the landscapes—thanks to a background in Environmental Science—because understanding nature makes every adventure even more meaningful.