Stunning Views on Lummi Island Trail
This short, steep hike on Lummi Island is a great spot to visit year-round on a clear day. While the elevation gain is
rapid (about 1,000 feet in just more than 1.5 miles), the highest point sits at just 1,050 feet, meaning it is accessible
in all seasons. Located within the Baker Preserve, managed by the Lummi Island Heritage Trust, the trail wanders
through one of the most unique ecosystems in the state, featuring plants that exist in only 12 other known locations in Washington. Thanks to the Lummi Island Heritage Trust, the preserve remains protected with visitors restricted to just hikers. Camping and fires along the trail are prohibited, as are dogs. Begin your journey by boat at the Gooseberry Point ferry dock in Whatcom County near Ferndale. The toy-like ferry loads passengers about every half-hour on weekdays and once an hour on the weekends. However, the ferry is likely to make more trips as needed on weekends so don’t let the wait stop you. Although walk-on passengers are just $7 round trip, you’ll want either your car or bike once on the island to reach the trailhead in a timely fashion. Cars, with drivers included, cost $13 round trip. Once you complete the quick five- to 10-minute ferry ride, turn left out of the parking lot to head toward the Baker Preserve trailhead on South Nugent Road. Follow South Nugent Road until it turns left and becomes Sunrise Road. Turn right on Seacrest Drive and you will spot the Baker Preserve parking lot shortly on the right. Be sure to drive slowly on Seacrest Drive, as the parking lot sneaks up quickly. Island Vista Stunning Views on Lummi Island Trail.
The trail begins with a tough uphill climb before leveling out for a more gradual walk up the rest the way up. Since the trail is limited to hikers only, it remains quiet and lightly populated for much of the year. As you make your
way up the 1.6 miles, look to the west to catch glimpses of the ocean through the trees. These views offer a taste of
what awaits at the top. The Baker Preserve overlook appears on the right and marks the end of the trail. The steep trip up rewards travelers with views of Rosario Strait and San Juan Islands. Your work is done. The return trip goes quickly at a downhill grade nearly the entire way.
For more content like this, follow the link to read another Take A Hike article here.
