
Lake Whatcom Park Hertz Trail
Hertz Trail offers a serene 6.2-mile lakeside walk through shaded forests, perfect for a relaxing escape in Bellingham.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, ample parking

Lake Whatcom Park Hertz Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ample parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hertz Trail offers a serene 6.2-mile lakeside walk through shaded forests, perfect for a relaxing escape in Bellingham.
"Easy walk/hike along the edge of the lake made for great viewing of fall foliage."

🚗 Parking is Limited
The main parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider the alternate trailhead parking.
🐶 Dogs Welcome on Leash
Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are leashed at all times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lakeside Meandering
Hertz Trail
Enjoy a mostly flat, 6.2-mile out-and-back trail with constant, beautiful views of Lake Whatcom.
Shady Forest Canopy
Lake Whatcom Park
Escape the heat with ample shade provided by the lush forest canopy, perfect for hot summer days.
Fishing and Swimming Spots
Lake Whatcom shoreline
Discover numerous spots along the trail ideal for a refreshing dip or a peaceful afternoon of fishing.
Old Stone Bridge & Waterfall
Near Whatcom Falls
A beautiful, historic stone bridge and a cascading waterfall offer picturesque scenery and photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Hertz Trail
Trail Etiquette and Accessibility
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
The main parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider the alternate trailhead parking.
🐶 Dogs Welcome on Leash
Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are leashed at all times.
☀️ Beat the Heat
The dense forest provides great shade, making it an ideal spot for a cool escape on hot summer days.
🥾 Trail Variety
While Hertz Trail is flat, explore other steeper trails in Lake Whatcom Park for different views and challenges.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
The main parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider the alternate trailhead parking.
🐶 Dogs Welcome on Leash
Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are leashed at all times.
☀️ Beat the Heat
The dense forest provides great shade, making it an ideal spot for a cool escape on hot summer days.
🥾 Trail Variety
While Hertz Trail is flat, explore other steeper trails in Lake Whatcom Park for different views and challenges.
🎣 Lakeside Access
Many spots along the trail offer easy access to the lake for fishing or a quick swim.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss the charming old stone bridge and the beautiful waterfall for memorable photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lake Whatcom Park's Hertz Trail for its beautiful lakeside views, ample shade, and easy, flat terrain, making it ideal for a relaxing walk. The accessibility for dogs and the presence of swimming/fishing spots are also highlights. Some find the parking limited and wish for more varied terrain or open spaces.
"This is the eastern shore of Whatcom Lake. Popular trails basically from the same parking lots are Chanterelle and Hertz Trails. Hertz Trail is one way out and back 6.2 miles. The trail is fairly flat, meandering lakeside There were many fishing and swimming holes people could slip into for spending time on the lake. Good place to come when it is hot outside- lots of shade. Limited parking can get crowded."
E “Perigrinator” B
"Highly recommend!
Easy walk/hike along the edge of the lake made for great viewing of fall foliage for this West Texas girl who doesn't deal with elevation gain well😅🤣.
Dogs are welcome on a leash."
deborah c
"10/15/22 it was pretty cool. a little disappointed, hoped for more. but, the old stone bridge, big waterfall and creek were beautiful. there's several dirt paths meandering through the park which is covered with the forrest canopy. we got to experience the early autumn colors, just beginning to change
theres restrooms and a small play area for kids"
Layne Allyson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hertz Trail is located within Lake Whatcom Park on the eastern shore of the lake. The main trailhead is accessible from the main park entrance, but parking can be limited. There's also an alternate trailhead parking lot nearby.
Information on public transportation directly to Lake Whatcom Park is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services.
From downtown Bellingham, head east on Lakeway Drive, which will eventually turn into North Shore Road. Follow North Shore Road to the park entrance. Signs will guide you to the Hertz Trail parking area.
Yes, Lake Whatcom Park is a well-known local spot. Follow signs for Lake Whatcom and the park entrance.
While the main Hertz Trail is an out-and-back from the primary trailhead, Lake Whatcom Park has other interconnected trails that may offer different access points or loops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lake Whatcom Park and the Hertz Trail are generally free to access. There are no admission fees required to enter the park or use the trails.
While specific hours aren't always posted, parks are typically open from dawn until dusk. It's best to check local park regulations or visit during daylight hours.
No, tickets are not required for the Hertz Trail. It's a public park, and access is free and open to all.
The main restriction is to follow park rules, including keeping dogs on a leash and respecting the natural environment.
Lake Whatcom Park is generally accessible year-round, though trail conditions may vary with weather. Winter can bring snow and ice.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Hertz Trail is considered an easy hike. It's a relatively flat, 6.2-mile out-and-back trail that meanders along the lakeside.
Hiking the full 6.2-mile out-and-back trail can take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Yes, there are restrooms available within Lake Whatcom Park, which is convenient for longer visits.
The flat nature of the Hertz Trail makes it suitable for families. There's also a small play area for kids in the park.
You can expect beautiful lakeside views, lush forest scenery, and opportunities to see early autumn colors if visiting in the fall.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakeside views along the Hertz Trail are stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset. The old stone bridge and waterfall near Whatcom Falls are also highly photogenic.
Absolutely! The foggy trails and cascading waterfalls, especially during rainy or overcast days, create a wonderfully moody and atmospheric vibe, reminiscent of 'Twilight' scenes.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty of the lake and forest.
Drone usage in parks is often restricted. It's advisable to check with the local park authorities or city regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
While the entire trail offers lovely views, keep an eye out for clearings that provide unobstructed vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Clark's Point, though not directly on Hertz Trail, offers incredible views in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Dog Owners
📸 Photographers Seeking Moody Scenery
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Whatcom Park's Trails
These trails showcase the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, with options for both leisurely strolls and more strenuous climbs. Whether you're looking for lakeside serenity or panoramic views, Lake Whatcom Park has something to offer. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if venturing onto steeper or less maintained paths.
The Allure of Bellingham's Outdoors
This region offers a lifestyle deeply connected to nature, attracting those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The pnw vibes are strong here, with lush greenery, stunning water views, and a generally relaxed atmosphere. It's a place where you can easily find yourself immersed in the wilderness, whether it's a quick hike after work or a full day of exploration.
Capturing Moody Vibes at Whatcom Falls
The combination of lush, damp forests and the dramatic water features makes for incredibly photogenic conditions. Even on a rainy day, the park comes alive with a unique beauty. The old stone bridge adds a touch of historic charm to the natural splendor, making it a focal point for photographers.




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