Samish Park: Hillside trail short but offers plenty

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This trail is short but there’s plenty to enjoy — from waterfall views to a rocky outcropping perfect for a picnic to large Douglas fir trees. This time of the year, the moss is so bright-green, you’ll want to look under rocks for fairies and other legendary creatures.

There’s even enough elevation gain to make the trail worthwhile for those who want more “oomph” in their outings.

The beauty here isn’t on a grand scale, but there are a lot of pleasing views packed into a short hike.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Elevation gain: 395 feet

Round trip: 1.3-mile loop

Hiking time: 50 minutes

Best time to go: Year-round

Users: Hikers

Family friendly: Yes, although the trail is narrow in places.

Amenities: Picnic tables, restrooms, beachfront with swimming area, fishing, boat launch for non-motorized boats. Rent rowboats and paddle boats starting in June.

Dogs: Dogs must be on a leash at all times.

Maps: None. You don’t need one because it’s pretty easy to find your way around, but you do need to pay attention because there are no directional signs once you start the hike. If you get turned around because you veered off onto one of the cut-throughs likely created by regulars, just remember to head down to get back to the parking lots.

Driving directions: Go south on Interstate 5 to Exit 246 (N. Lake Samish). Take the exit. Turn left where the exit ends at a stop sign. Stay on North Lake Samish Road until you see Samish Park on your right, just before a bridge crosses the lake. It’s 11 miles from downtown Bellingham, or a little more than 15 minutes.

Getting there: From the lower or upper parking lots, cross the gravel road and head toward a wooden, waterfall viewing platform. Let the sound of falling water guide your feet. There are two trailheads that go up on either side of the platform; if you’re facing the platform, pick the one to the right to start the hike.

Follow the trail up a few switchbacks to a flat-ish table of rocks in a clearing. Hang out here for a while or continue on the trail and head back into the woods. Stay on the trail until you cross a wooden bridge spanning a creek. When you see a fork, go right to head up to the “Eagles Overlook.” It’s an OK view but you’re not missing anything spectacular if you prefer to veer left to head back down to the road.

You’ll know you’re almost back at the start when you see two sets of wooden stairs; this is where you’ll get your best view of Lake Samish.

Other option: If you want something easier and closer to Lake Samish, try the easy 0.7- mile Lakeshore Trail. Look for the trailhead along the shore.

Source: “Hiking Whatcom County” (Northwest Wild Books) by Ken Wilcox.