Whatcom County

Whatcom County is an administrative division in northwestern Washington that encompasses mountains, forests, and coastal sections along the Pacific and the Canadian border. The landscape shifts between forested hills, river valleys, and beaches.

The division was created in 1854 by the Washington Territorial Legislature and ranked among the first in the Pacific Northwest. Later adjustments to boundaries and administrative structure shaped the current arrangement.

Harvest events and seafood markets in late summer and fall reflect the region's ties to farming and fishing industries. These gatherings bring communities together and underline the economic importance of local produce.

Roads and trails link smaller towns and rural areas, with distances between coast and mountains often requiring several hours of driving. Access to many forest zones and parks can be limited in winter by snow.

The northernmost tip extends to Point Roberts, an exclave reachable only by land through Canada. This geographic quirk affects border crossings and daily life for residents there.

Location: Washington

Inception: 1854

Capital city: Bellingham

Shares border with: Okanogan County, Skagit County, San Juan County, Metro Vancouver Regional District, Fraser Valley Regional District, Capital Regional District, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Website: https://co.whatcom.wa.us

GPS coordinates: 48.83000,-121.90000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:25