Staying at Bellingham vacation rentals? Make sure to set aside a few days for experiencing some of the most scenic drives the Pacific Northwest has to offer. From ocean vistas to majestic mountainsides to tree-lined river landscapes, the state of Washington delivers it all within close proximity of your Bellingham vacation rental.
1. Chuckanut Drive (Route 11)
Probably Washington's best-known and most popular scenic drive in the state, the route passes through rich farmland and the small communities of Allen and Bow. Stop to do some antiquing along the way or grab a bite to eat at the Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive, a premier dining destination, or Biggest Burgers on 'The Drive' for takeout. The journey continues twisting and turning along the rocky shoulder of the Chuckanut Mountains, making its way high above the Pacific Ocean with unforgettable views of Skagit Valley and the San Juan Islands. The 20 mile long winding drive comes to an end in the 1880s town of Fairhaven. From here you can return to your Bellingham rental via I-5 or turn around and go back the way you came to glimpse the sunset for a perfect ending to a perfect day.
2. Mt. Baker Highway
Passing through pastoral leas and dense mountain rainforest on this 60-mile drive brings you to the most photographed mountain landscape in the western US. Winding eastward from Bellingham you travel alongside the Nooksack River on your ascent past Mt. Baker ski area. The ensuing 24 miles from the village of Glacier to Artist Point are designated a National Forest Scenic Byway. Hairpin curves for the final few miles of the drive end in a breathtaking reflection of Mt. Shuksan on Mirror Lake. The view from Artist Point showcases the spectacular snow caps of Mount Baker, the North Cascades and the Canadian Coastal Mountain Range. It's a road trip well worth taking.
3. Whidbey Island
About one hour south of Bellingham, discover one of the best kept secrets in Washington, Whidbey Island. The Scenic Isle Way, the first designated State Scenic Byway on the island, is dotted with quaint, rural seaside towns. With turn-of-the-century military outposts, Victorian homes and lighthouses it's easy to escape and leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind. Drive through Deception Pass State Park in Oak Harbor or discover the beauty of Penn Cove and Admiralty Head Lighthouse in Coupeville. Meander down Smuggler's Cove Road to secluded beaches in Freeland and explore South Whidbey State Park. The drive from the north end of the island to the south end is less than an hour, but with so much to enjoy along the way, be prepared to spend the day. Locals say that it's easy to get to Whidbey Island, but leaving is difficult.
For maps of these scenic drive routes and more stop by the Visitor Information Center located at 904 Potter Street. Take I-5 Exit 253 and follow the signs.
Start planning your scenic trip by checking out Vamoose.com to find a Bellingham rental based on size, location and the amenities you need for your vacation.