Discover the Beauty of the Chain Lakes Loop: A Hiker's Paradise Near Bellingham

Bellingham’s Chain Lakes Loop beckons adventure seekers with its stunning alpine views and vibrant meadows. This moderate 6.5-mile loop is situated within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, offering an immersive experience in nature. Hikers traverse through lush forests, alpine lakes, and striking mountain vistas that are especially captivating during wildflower season in July. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot deer, marmots, and a variety of bird species throughout the journey.

As you navigate the winding trails, the backdrop of the iconic Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker becomes a constant companion, accentuating the loop's picturesque allure. The trail features a series of gentle ascents and descents, making it accessible for most hikers, while occasional rocky sections add just the right amount of challenge. With an average completion time of 3-5 hours, the loop is perfect for a half-day adventure or an afternoon escape.

Whether you’re a novice hiker or a seasoned veteran, the Chain Lakes Loop presents an unforgettable experience enriched by the surrounding natural beauty.

Adventure Guide to Hiking the Chain Lakes Loop

Key Facts:

Location: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest near Bellingham, Washington
Distance: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,300 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: July to September for wildflowers and stable weather

Recommendations:

Start early to avoid crowds and make the most of the day.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited spots along the trail for refills.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for rocky areas and varying terrain.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

Interesting Facts:

The Chain Lakes Loop is part of the larger Heather Meadows area, known for its breathtaking alpine scenery.
The meadows bloom with colorful wildflowers during the summer months, making it a popular spot for photographers.

History:

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest has a rich history of indigenous culture and later became a favored destination for outdoor recreation in the Pacific Northwest. The area was established to protect the stunning landscapes and biodiversity, providing a sanctuary for both local wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, the Chain Lakes Loop serves as a vital part of Bellingham’s vibrant hiking community.

Adventure Map

Bellingham Info

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Reviews

Chelsey N3 months ago

Did the whole loop and it was stunning from start to finish. Make sure to park near the visitor center if you can and hike up to the entrance, otherwise you have to hike up after the end of the trail, and by that point, you'll likely be very tired (a nice couple gave us a ride up). Additionally, you can turn around half way instead of doing the whole loop. Stunning views and opportunities for swimming when the weather cooperates. Plan for bugs (mosquitoes and horse flies ouch!) and pack along sunscreen and a hat because much of the trail is in the sun. I'd say, this is a moderately difficult trail, so if you have mobility issues, this probably isn't the trail for you (lots of rocky terrain and plenty of ups and downs). Beautifully clean and maintained, as well. It's obvious a lot of care goes into the maintenance of this park, so stop by and enjoy if you can!

Allen Stayduhara month ago

Do yourself a favor and stop somewhere to pee before you arrive! Or bring a bucket because the bathroom here is worse than any bathroom I've ever seen in my inter life! It would be cleaner and more pleasant to take a dumb in the pee troff at PNC park or even a stall at Heinz stadium during a Stealers playoff game than sit and use these bathrooms! To all females I would not even drink anything from the time you wake up till the time you arrive, you will regret it! Especially when it's cold and windy! Which has to be 85% of the time! But with the bathroom situation discussed, I mean disgusted. Everything else is breathtaking! Beautiful hikes and sights!

Geordy Smarta month ago

This was a stunning hike to do, scenery changes with almost every step. I rated this trail as Hard due to the stair climb at the end or the switch back climb at the start, depending on the direction you decide to do the loop, the rest of the hike I would consider easy-moderate.

Jaewook J4 months ago

Breathtaking, inspiring, and a healing journey through this trail to explore and enjoy what this area’s nature has to offer. The trail itself is a loop, so you can start clockwise (westward) or go counter clockwise (eastward) first. I headed out clockwise and finished the loop, finished it in 3 hours and 33 minutes total. Moderate pace, stopping every now and then to take these pictures. The clockwise route is more modest, as you hike down in some of the steepest parts of the trail. So if you want to challenge yourself, you may opt to go counter clockwise and head out eastward. A moderate trail, not as challenging and all ages should be able to enjoy this trail. I started the trail around 7:30am on a Saturday morning in July, moderate amount of other hikers and parking lot was not crowded. When I returned, it was overflowing with visitors, so on a weekend be sure to get here early if you want to avoid the rush hour. It must be really popular here during summer times, during weekends.

Brooke Lynn Barlow3 months ago

Hiked on a Saturday in July at 11am. Parking available, need national park pass or pay for day pass. This was a bit strenuous at parts. Wasn't really any way finding signs, a few points we had to guess which way to go. Still snow in some parts, beautiful lakes to take a dip in! The trail between the meadows and artist point is quite the incline. We went clockwise starting at Artist, if I were to do it again I would go counter clockwise because the last bit from the meadows station was an absolute killer! Took us about 6 hours to make the loop. Very very rocky at parts. Wonderful scenery.

Hiking

Discover the Beauty of the Chain Lakes Loop: A Hiker's Paradise Near Bellingham