
Sehome Hill Arboretum Bellingham
180-acre wooded oasis with 5+ miles of trails, an observation tower, and a historic tunnel offering a peaceful PNW escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful escape from city noise

Sehome Hill Arboretum Bellingham
Best Time
Peaceful escape from city noise

Highlights
Must-see attractions
180-acre wooded oasis with 5+ miles of trails, an observation tower, and a historic tunnel offering a peaceful PNW escape.
"A calm and peaceful place to get away from downtown noise for a little while."

🚶♀️ Easy Hiking for Newbies
Sehome Hill Arboretum is a great starting point for new hikers with well-maintained trails. :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Forest Immersion
Experience classic PNW forest with evergreens, ferns, and moss. Beautiful surroundings! :evergreen_tree:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sehome Hill Arboretum Trails
Throughout the Arboretum
Wander through lush PNW forests with diverse trees, ferns, and mosses. A true escape into nature.

Observation Tower
Summit of Sehome Hill
Climb for panoramic views of the forest, Fairview, and Bellingham.

Historic Tunnel
On one of the trails
Discover a unique, open tunnel adding a touch of mystery to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Navigation & Overgrowth
Observation Tower Views & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Hiking for Newbies
Sehome Hill Arboretum is a great starting point for new hikers with well-maintained trails. :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Forest Immersion
Experience classic PNW forest with evergreens, ferns, and moss. Beautiful surroundings! :evergreen_tree:
⬆️ Climb for Views
The observation tower offers great views, though trees can sometimes obstruct them. :camerawithflash:
⚠️ Check for Closures
Construction has caused closures; verify access before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Hiking for Newbies
Sehome Hill Arboretum is a great starting point for new hikers with well-maintained trails. :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Forest Immersion
Experience classic PNW forest with evergreens, ferns, and moss. Beautiful surroundings! :evergreen_tree:
⬆️ Climb for Views
The observation tower offers great views, though trees can sometimes obstruct them. :camerawithflash:
⚠️ Check for Closures
Construction has caused closures; verify access before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
🌙 Avoid Night Visits
While beautiful during the day, it's advised to avoid this area after dark for safety. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sehome Hill Arboretum is praised for its peaceful, natural escape with classic PNW forest scenery and an observation tower offering views. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails and the opportunity for quiet contemplation. However, some find trail marking inconsistent, and views from the tower can be partially obscured by trees. Occasional construction closures and a lack of readily available restrooms are noted drawbacks.
"There was a paved parking lot with plenty of spaces . There are many different trails . Not many were marked. It made it a bit difficult with all the side trails but I believe they eventually all came out to the same place . They are well maintained although one or two were slightly overgrown in a few spots . The view from the observation deck at the top is not too great as it's mostly blocked by the trees . Still a really nice area to get out and walk in beautiful surroundings."
JJB 632116
"Very calm and peaceful place to get away from downtown noise for a little while. Awesome view of Bellingham, and the bay. You can also see Baker, and the sisters, but they're obscured somewhat by a tree.
My favorite place to go have some peace and quiet in the morning, and mentally prepare to face the day!"
Madisyn Mincer
"Nice hike through a classic example of the PNW forest! Evergreen trees of all types, furns, moss, and mushrooms of all kinds! Really fune to hike through! Options for trails, a tunnel to go through, and a tower to climb for awesome views of the forest, Fairview, and Bellingham! Easy access from the city! Trails are clean and well marked!"
Seven Summers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sehome Hill Arboretum is easily accessible from downtown Bellingham. Many visitors drive, with paved parking lots available at the lower and upper sections of the park. Public transportation options might also be available; check local transit schedules.
Yes, there are paved parking lots. However, be aware that construction has impacted parking availability in the past, so it's wise to check for current conditions before you go.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed in the provided content, Bellingham has public transit. It's recommended to check the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) website for routes that may serve the area near Sehome Hill Arboretum.
Sehome Hill Arboretum is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive north of Seattle, making it a feasible day trip. Combine it with other Bellingham attractions for a fuller experience.
There is a road that leads up to an upper parking area, providing access to higher trails and the observation tower. This is often more convenient for reaching the summit views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sehome Hill Arboretum is a public park, and typically there is no entrance fee for general access to the trails and grounds.
As a public park, Sehome Hill Arboretum is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific hours can vary, and it's advisable to check local park information for any official operating times.
No, tickets are not required for Sehome Hill Arboretum as it is a public natural space. You can visit freely during park hours.
While generally open, be aware of potential temporary closures due to construction or maintenance. It's also recommended to avoid visiting at night for safety reasons.
Yes, you can enjoy a quick visit by focusing on the observation tower or a shorter loop trail. The accessibility from the city makes it convenient for brief excursions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The arboretum features a network of trails, ranging from well-maintained paths to some that can be slightly overgrown. They wind through classic PNW forests, offering diverse scenery.
Trail marking can be inconsistent, with some visitors finding it difficult to navigate due to numerous side trails. Using a map or trail app is recommended.
The observation tower provides views of the forest, Fairview, and Bellingham. However, trees can sometimes obstruct the full panorama, and views of Mt. Baker may be partially obscured.
Some visitors have reported difficulty finding restrooms within the park. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit or be prepared for limited options.
The dense forest environment of Sehome Hill Arboretum likely supports a variety of bird species, making it a potential spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush PNW forest, moss-covered trees, and the unique tunnel. The observation tower offers elevated perspectives, and the surrounding neighborhoods like Sehome Hill have beautiful architecture.
Yes, the arboretum offers classic Pacific Northwest forest landscapes. The observation tower provides a vantage point for wider shots, though tree cover can be a factor.
While not explicitly mentioned, the natural environment may host small wildlife. Be patient and respectful if you encounter any creatures while exploring.
Morning light filtering through the trees can create beautiful dappled effects. Late afternoon also offers softer light for forest photography.
The observation tower and the historic tunnel are key landmarks. The diverse forest itself, with its mosses and ferns, provides ample photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Seekers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Sehome Hill Arboretum
The trails lead to various points of interest, including a unique historic tunnel that adds an element of adventure to the hike. The summit of Sehome Hill is crowned by an observation tower, providing a vantage point for panoramic views. Although the tower offers a great perspective, reviewers note that the surrounding trees can sometimes obscure the full vista, and views of distant landmarks like Mt. Baker might be partially blocked. Despite these minor limitations, the arboretum remains a cherished spot for a peaceful nature walk and a refreshing escape from the urban environment.
The Observation Tower and Views
Despite the potential for obstructed views, the tower remains a popular destination for its unique vantage point. It's particularly appealing for photographers looking to capture the expanse of the arboretum and the city below. For those seeking a sense of accomplishment and a different perspective on the landscape, the climb is well worth it. Remember to check for any temporary closures or construction that might affect access to the tower or the upper parking areas.
Safety and Accessibility Considerations
Accessibility can also be a consideration. While the trails offer a natural experience, not all are suitable for wheelchairs. Specifically, the observation tower is not wheelchair accessible. If you have mobility challenges, focus on the more accessible lower trails or paved sections if available. Additionally, restroom facilities may be limited, so it's a good idea to plan accordingly and use facilities before arriving at the arboretum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit