Larrabee State Park - Chuckanut Ridge Trail
Puget Sound and IslandsBest Apr–Oct
A ridgeline traverse across Chuckanut Mountain with Baker views and connections to half a dozen other trails.
About This Trail
Chuckanut Ridge Trail runs the spine of Chuckanut Mountain in Larrabee State Park, linking the front-side trails above Bellingham Bay with the backcountry lakes and forest on the east slope. The 3-mile ridge section sits at the heart of a much larger trail network, and most hikers access it via the Hemlock Trail from the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead.
The signature viewpoint is the Cyrus Gates Overlook at roughly 5 miles from the trailhead. On clear days, Mount Baker and the British Columbia Coast Range fill the northern horizon, with Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands spread below. The trail passes through old-growth forest sections between viewpoints, keeping things interesting even when clouds roll in.
A Discover Pass covers parking. The network of connecting trails allows for many route variations, from a focused out-and-back to the overlook to a full day linking Lost Lake, Fragrance Lake, and Oyster Dome. Mud and occasional snow linger through spring at ridge elevation.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“5-mile out & back hike from middle trailhead to Cyrus Gates Lookout.”
Last report: Apr 6, 2026
Scorecard
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Muddy trail conditions persist through spring
- Intermittent snow possible at ridge elevation into April
Getting There
North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead on Chuckanut Drive (SR 11), 1.5 miles south of Old Fairhaven Parkway. Discover Pass required. Alternate access via Highline/Cleator Road (rough dirt, high clearance recommended).
From the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead, follow the Hemlock Trail 1.2 miles to the North Lost Lake junction. Take the North Lost Lake Trail uphill for 1 mile to reach the ridge. The Chuckanut Ridge Trail runs 3 miles south to Cyrus Gates Overlook. Return the same way, or connect to Cleator Road or other trails for loop options.
Morning starts work best for clear views of Baker before afternoon clouds build. Allow 4 to 6 hours for the full out-and-back to Cyrus Gates Overlook.
Recent Reports
First official day of spring break, and I wanted a hike that would distract me from thinking about school. Did I find it?
This morning's weather report for Bellingham predicted partly sunny skies and basically no precip. Eh, not so much.
A 3. 5-mile out & back hike from middle trailhead to Cyrus Gates Lookout.
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