Larrabee State Park - Rock Trail
Puget Sound and IslandsBest Mar–Nov
A steep, geology-packed descent through sandstone cliffs and caves to the Chuckanut ridge above Bellingham Bay.
About This Trail
Rock Trail earns its name within the first quarter mile. The route drops steeply from the Cleator Road trailhead through 100-foot sandstone cliffs pockmarked with holes and large caves, past enormous mossy boulders that look like they belong in a much wilder place than a state park. Built by WTA volunteers in partnership with Larrabee State Park and the Chuckanut Conservancy, the trail features well-constructed stairs, switchbacks, and Bogaards Bridge over the creek crossing. A notable cave near the three-quarter-mile mark is worth ducking into.
The views are the other headline. Mount Baker and the Twin Sisters fill the skyline from several vantage points along the ridge. The trail connects to the South Lost Lake Trail, which opens up options for longer outings including loops past Lost Lake and through the broader Chuckanut trail network. The sandstone geology here is genuinely unusual for Western Washington and gives the hike a character you do not find on the typical forested PNW trail.
Access is from the top via Cleator Road, a gravel road off Chuckanut Drive (SR 11). The lot holds about 25 cars and has a privy. Discover Pass required. The trail is hiker-only, no mountain bikes or horses. Despite the relatively short distance, the 366 meters of gain is packed into a steep grade, so it punches above its weight for effort. This is one of the best short hikes in the Bellingham area.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Road Access Notice: On this morning (14 May) there was a tree across Cleator Rd just past the Lost Lake Trail access below Cyrus Gates Overlook.”
Last report: May 30, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Steep stairs, slippery when wet
- Exposure near cliff edges
- Caves may have unstable ceilings
Getting There
Cleator Road trailhead, about 25 spaces with a privy. Discover Pass required. Accessed via HiLine Road off Chuckanut Drive (SR 11). The gravel road is narrow but passable for all vehicles.
From the Cleator Road parking area, the trail descends immediately and steeply. Stairs, switchbacks, and Bogaards Bridge are all well-built. The cave is near the three-quarter-mile mark on your left. Connects to South Lost Lake Trail at the bottom for loop options.
Morning starts get you the best light on Baker and the calmest conditions. Remember, you descend first and climb back out, so save some energy for the return.
Recent Reports
I went up to the Chukanuts yesterday for some hiking and fishing. The Rock trail goes down the hill from the overlook down to the Lost lake trail.
We started from the Cyrus Gates Overlook and after a short distance went left at the junction and began the descent on the steps. I think I heard how many there are but I was concentrating on my footing to think about it-lots.
Road Access Notice: On this morning (14 May) there was a tree across Cleator Rd just past the Lost Lake Trail access below Cyrus Gates Overlook. May be cleared by the time anyone reads this, but just a friendly advisory.
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