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Visit Bellingham Washington

By Angela Brown, About.com

5 of 9

Scenic Drives from Bellingham

The scenic view of the San Juan Islands along Chuckanut Drive

The scenic view of the San Juan Islands along Chuckanut Drive.

© Angela M. Brown (2007)

Chuckanut Drive
This scenic 21-mile route follows Highway 11 from Burlington to Bellingham. The southern part of the drive passes through picturesque farm country, past berry farms and apple orchards. North of Edison the drive skirts the waterfront, winding by fabulous views of the San Juan Islands. Along the way you’ll pass a number of great restaurants, picnicking spots, and art galleries.

Mt. Baker Highway
Just under 60 miles long, this scenic drive follows Highway 542 from Bellingham to Artist Point in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. As you head east from Bellingham you’ll pass by farms and vineyards. Attractions along the way include the small Nooksack River Casino, the Kendall Creek Hatchery, and Black Mountain Forestry Center. You’ll enter the National Forest near the town of Glacier; the route becomes more steep and windy as you approach the Mt. Baker Ski Area and head on to Artist Point. You can stop and enjoy scenery and hiking at Horseshoe Bend, Nooksack Falls, Heather Meadows, and Artist Point. The views of Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan, and Picture Lake are all incredible. There isn’t much in the way of food or services along the Mt. Baker Highway. If you don’t pack your own picnic, then Grahams Restaurant in Glacier is a good place to stop for tasty food and microbrews in a laid-back setting.

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