June 4, 2026

Take a Hike with Hotel Bellwether

Discover 17 top hikes in Bellingham with Hotel Bellwether as your starting point. From urban paths just steps away, to forest trails, island viewpoints, and Mount Baker classics - your adventure begins here. We've curated a custom hiking guide included in your stay!

‍

Book The "Take a Hike" Add-On to Your Stay

  • Overnight stay at Hotel Bellwether
  • Full-color locally curated hiking guide
  • Guided hike add-on option for groups and individuals
  • Bellwether snack pack
  • Cooler backpack checkout
  • Help with park passes and local tips
  • Evening dining options on site

‍

Ready to go? Pick your starting point!

Each of these hikes are detailed in our full-color guide.

‍

Urban Hikes

  • Squalicum Pier
  • Downtown Park Loop
  • Fairhaven Park to Woodstock Farms
  • Sehome Hill Arboretum
  • Whatcom Falls Park Loop

Scenic Hikes

  • Clayton Beach
  • Lake Padden
  • Fragrance Lake
  • Chanterelle Trail
  • Stimpson Family Nature Reserve
  • Oyster Dome

‍Mountain Hikes

  • Artist Point
  • Chain Lakes Loop
  • Picture Lake
  • Nooksack Falls

Island Hikes

  • Vendovi Island
  • Cypress Island: Eagle Cliff

Meet Your Guides

Todd Elsworth

Todd Elsworth

An engaging guide and lifelong outdoor enthusiast with a gift for storytelling. Drawing from a background in regional history, recreation, and community engagement, Todd leads hikes that bring both the natural and social history of a place to life. Whether on a forest trail or in an urban park, Todd shares fascinating insights and anecdotes that invite participants to see familiar places with new eyes—and leave with a deeper appreciation of their surroundings.

Elizabeth Nelson Bellingham

Elizabeth Nelson

A passionate naturalist and skilled guide who helps individuals and groups connect deeply with the natural world. With years of experience leading outdoor experiences for people of all ages, she weaves science, storytelling, and mindfulness into her hikes—creating an inspiring and restorative experience for participants. Elizabeth’s calm, inclusive approach encourages curiosity and invites guests to slow down and tune in to the beauty and wisdom of the landscape.

Ken Wilcox

Ken Wilcox

A Bellingham-based author, hiker, and trails advocate behind Tired Dogs Press. A retired federal energy specialist, Ken has written several hiking and conservation books, including guides from Washington State to D.C.

‍

Recent Posts

See more news and events from the Hotel Bellwether.

Blog Img
October 16, 2026

Experience a Candlelight Concert at Hotel Bellwether

An Evening of Music and Candlelight at Hotel Bellwether

Blog Img
October 9, 2026

2026 Thanksgiving Buffet Experience

Celebrate Thanksgiving with an unforgettable waterfront feast at Hotel Bellwether’s Lighthouse Bar & Grill on Thursday, November 26, 2026, from 12 PM to 7 PM!