Glenhaven

Bellingham’s Best Hike: Blanchard Hill, Bat Caves and Oyster Dome

I’m a big fan of hiking. I don’t do it nearly as often as I would like to, but such is life.  My personal favorite hiking area is Blanchard Hill. It’s got it all: Views, lakes, forested sections and open areas. More variety than any other hike I’ve found.  Located on Chuckanut Mountain, (south of Bellingham between I-5 and Chuckanut Drive) Blanchard Hill is one of the area’s most beautiful natural landscapes and offers some of the best hikes and views around.  With several trails, Blanchard Hill offers hikes ranging from relaxing and quiet to slightly grueling.

There are multiple trails and access points, depending on the level of distance and difficulty you are looking for. It is possible to hike from the bottom, via Chuckanut Drive, or drive to a lookout about halfway up, then continue to the peak from there. There are a couple of small lakes (Lily and Lizard) along the way, depending on which trails you take.

From the parking area, the trail (part of the famous Pacific Northwest Trail) winds up toward a series of bat caves, and then up to the top, known as Oyster Dome. The views from Oyster Dome are unparalleled. Be warned, it’s a tough hike, but worth every sweaty step. The reviews I’d read before my first attempt sounded daunting, but it wasn’t too bad. My 11 year-old daughter made it up just fine… She also had no problem sitting right up near the edge at the top. I, however, clung to a nearby tree and occasionally peaked over the side. What can I say, I’m afraid of heights and I love to hike. I’m also afraid of water but love being on boats. To each their own, as they say…

For more information on Chackanut mountain and Blanchard hill, click here to see a map of the area.  To get to the Samish overlook parking area ,take I-5 to the Alger Exit #240,  head west on Lake Samish Road. Take the first Left onto Barrel Springs Road and follow it for 3/4 of a mile until you see a large gravel road  and a sign that says “Blanchard Hill trail system” Follow that road up the hill. It takes about 20 minutes, or so. You’ll pass some parking lots that access trails. Keep heading up. For your first time, your best bet is to go with someone who’s been there before. It’s pretty confusing- one of those places I know how to get to, but have difficulty describing. It’s definitely worth it, though!

Be sure to check out Bellingham’s Backcountry Essentials for hiking gear and micro-brews!

This post simultaneously published by Rob LeRoy at theRealEstateNovelist.com

Quiet Lake Community known as Glenhaven.

Glenhaven is a quiet community built around 2 lakes, Reed lake that spills over into Cain Lake.  Both lakes are kept quiet due to the prohibition of motor boats and jet skis. Only quiet electric motors and paddle power allowed.  Larger Lake Whatcom is only a 5 minutes drive to South Lake Whatcom public boat ramp, that allows power boats.

The mountain to the west is Lookout Mountain and boasts many great hiking trails including Squires Lake, and spectacular views from the summit.  The mountain to the east is called Anderson Mountain.There are currently 678 homes in Glenhaven with 5 more in the construction phase.  The community consists of 1198 lots.

The community has some great ammenities that include the clubhouse pictured here which is available for members to use for those special gatherings.  Located on the Glenhaven Island on Glenhaven Drive.

The community heated swimming pool is a hit during the long days of summer.  The pool offers full time life guards, adult swim time and occasionally has  swimming classes.

Just to the south of the swimming pool you’ll find a tennis court and several basketball hoops to practice your shots.  The island also has a large grass field to enjoy and play set for younger children to explore.  Along the grassy field is a nice pebble beach on Cain Lake’s northern shore. That’s where you’ll find me and my family on most warm summer days with our Kayaks close by.

Much of the area has either lake views or mountain views. On some of the higher lots you may find great views of the Twin Sisters.  The numerous large cedar and hemlock trees throughout the community adds character.

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The orientation of Glenhaven is almost directly between Burlington I-5 exit 236, and Bellingham I-5 exit 252,and only 6 miles from Glenhaven to the freeway at I-5 exit 240. Glenhaven Map  For additional information check out GlenhavenHomes.

If you are looking for a valley of refuge and safety, thus it’s meaning, take a drive over and let me show you around.  I live and work here all year around.

All the Best,

Dale Kreiser

360-319-6365

dale@buyertours.com