A hidden treasure for art lovers and strolling enthusiasts

Quick Stats

  • Degree of Difficulty: Easy to Medium
  • Length: Main perimeter trail approximately .20 miles roundtrip
  • Trail surface: Packed dirt with gravel and rocks on top in some areas

Tucked away in the Silver Beach Neighborhood, you’ll find some of the best gardening and artistry our local community has to offer. While Bellingham is full of public art, Big Rock Garden trails are surrounded by a super-concentrated array of sculptures, painted installments, and hundreds of tree and plant varieties.

If you use a GPS with the Sylvan Street address, you might get sent to the back of the garden where parking isn’t as convenient. I recommend heading to Balsam Lane to secure a spot in front of the entrance. If their main spaces are full, you’re allowed to park along the greenspace on Sylvan Street right outside Balsam. Once you’re parked, head inside the gate. You’ll find a small shack off to the left with information posted about the art pieces and their history.

Big Rock Garden is open to the public and maintained by dedicated volunteers year-round. Each season offers a unique gardenscape experience, as maples, conifers, rhododendrons, and azaleas make their appearance throughout the months.

Stray from the main perimeter trail and meander down different paths in the 2.5-acre sculpture garden. Each turn brings you to a new discovery, from several stone works by local artist Michael Jacobsen to the ornate Korean War Children’s Memorial pavilion completed in 2006.

There are some slopes to the trails, but none so steep that those with mobility aids can’t access the different works. Some paths have rockier terrain than others, so be careful as you explore.

Whether you’re alone, entertaining friends, or just in need of a quiet walk, strolling through Big Rock Garden will satisfy your every need this season.

Recorded address: 2900 Sylvan St., Silver Beach Neighborhood, Bellingham
To find main parking: Balsam Ln., Bellingham


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"Each season offers a unique gardenscape experience, as maples, conifers, rhododendrons, and azaleas make their appearance throughout the months."