Whatcom Falls Park

Whatcom Falls Park spans 241 acres of forest where four distinct waterfalls cascade along a creek system. The park connects Lake Whatcom to Bellingham Bay and contains sports fields, picnic grounds, and hiking paths throughout.

The Whatcom Creek area has served as fishing grounds and community space for generations. In 1999, a pipeline rupture released gasoline into the creek, which marked a significant turning point for environmental management in the park.

The trout hatchery on the grounds is run jointly by Bellingham Technical College and the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, supporting local fish populations. You can watch the work of raising native species during your visit.

Two entrances serve the park: Electric Avenue provides access to sports facilities while Silver Beach Road leads to picnic areas. The best time to visit is during warmer months when trails are drier and water features are most accessible.

Whirlpool Falls features a natural bowl-shaped pool surrounded by sheer rock walls that visitors use for swimming and water activities during summer. This formation developed over centuries through the constant force of falling water wearing away the stone.

Website: https://worldwaterfalldatabase.com/waterfall/Whirlpool-Falls-3258

GPS coordinates: 48.75212,-122.42915

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03