On a rare bluebird day in the Pacific Northwest, the world is your oyster. Snow-capped peaks that stay hidden behind a wall of gray for much of the year, peer out above sprawling mountain ranges. Scattered islands sparkle in the waters of the nearest bay. And along one particular trail in Bellingham the northernmost city in Washington, the world is literally your oyster. The trek up the Oyster Dome trail on Blanchard Mountain, which can be found a short 30 minute drive from downtown Bellingham, is steadily steep. It starts at the welcoming Samish Overlook which is adorned with picnic tables and jaw-dropping views, and winds through a dense forest of towering moss-covered trees. Up and around switchback after switchback, the trail crawls — eventually dumping out into a spacious scenic overlook high above Bellingham Bay and the mystical San Juan Islands. For travelers in the Bellingham area on a sunny day, don’t miss the chance to take in one of the best views in the area from more than 2,000 feet above sea level. Roughly 5 miles round-trip, the hike up Oyster Dome is the perfect way to take in all of the beauty found in the area, and to burn enough calories to indulge in the city’s booming craft beer scene post-hike.
Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends.
