Seattle: Chuckanut Bay to Larrabee State Park

This multiday paddle tours a small island, scenic coves, and tops things off with a 4.8-mile hike to a lake in Larrabee State Park.

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Mapped by Kari Bodnarchuk

Trail Facts

  • Distance: 15.3

Waypoints

CHU001

Location: 48.7198677062988, -122.511253356934

Rent kayak, then carry it 50 yds. N to launch @ Bellingham Bay. Paddle NW around ferry dock; turn L (S) along coast

CHU002

Location: 48.7013320922852, -122.516700744629

Waves crash into sandstone cliffs and rocks; take care navigating choppy surf during windy weather

CHU003

Location: 48.6899185180664, -122.505950927734

Explore small cove, with its purple and pink starfish; petrified palm trees cling to cliffs. Head S to lush Chuckanut Island

CHU004

Location: 48.6778831481934, -122.501998901367

Paddle E, then S around island; pass scalloped coves, rock formations. Point bow SW. Optional: Dock on island’s NW side, in sandy oasis tucked among rock slabs

CHU005

Location: 48.6692161560059, -122.511566162109

Pass Governor’s Point on L; continue S along coast marked with rocky coves, cliffs and pebbly beaches

CHU006

Location: 48.6557846069336, -122.502746582031

Paddle SE across bay to Whiskey Rock; herons, seals, cormorants

CHU007

Location: 48.6538162231445, -122.493865966797

Steer S to Larrabee SP beach. To camp, haul gear up path. In 200 ft., turn L under tracks and follow path N to sites. Next day: Begin dayhike from camp, head to park entrance, cross WA 11 to Fragrance Lake trailhead

CHU008

Location: 48.6532325744629, -122.490119934082

Climb on Fragrance Lake Trail; cross bike trail to forest. Ahead: ferns and majestic old-growth cedar, hemlock, fir

CHU009

Location: 48.6557006835938, -122.484718322754

Spur: Go L @ 3-way to overlook (views of Chuckanut Bay and islands). Backtrack to WPT 9; turn L. Climb switchbacks N

CHU010

Location: 48.6568832397461, -122.476097106934

Enter gate, then straight @ 3-way; begin descent to Fragrance Lake; in 300 yds., bear R @ Y on scenic path circling lake

CHU011

Location: 48.6596336364746, -122.470733642578

Stay on main trail, passing impressive ledges; backtrack to campsite, then Wildcat Cove; return to boat launch