Stimpson Nature Preserve is a 2.9 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Bellingham, Washington that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips and is best used from May until December.
This trail opened in October of 2003. It is well maintained through a dense forest. The start of the trail passes a large beaver pond. Cougars have been sighted in the area so pay attention. Water crossings have new wooden bridges. The name "Nature Reserve" is well deserved. This land was donated by the Stimpson family.
Keep valuables with you as there have been reports of some car break ins in the parking lot.
Whatcom County Parks (360) 733-2900
Take Lakeway Drive east from the freeway. Stay right on all the forks in the road until you see the sign for Lake Louise. Turn right on Austin Road (turns into Lk. Louise Rd.) and follow it 1.6 miles to a small signed parking area on the left. The trail is well marked.
January 16, 2021This was a beautiful trail. We went on a rainy day so the trail was pretty muddy. Really nice environment. Hard to believe it's so close to the city. Lots of trees down. We saw one crack and fall while we were walking. I've never seen that before. Trail was well marked.
January 15, 2021January 13, 2021Super pretty out today. Fairly muddy, but not awful, and lots of down trees over the trail from the windstorms
January 5, 2021Nice “hidden gem” of a trail. Pretty muddy but manageable. Lots to look at and enjoy.
December 28, 2020December 28, 2020really pretty trail very easy and short. definitely a nice hike to take with a friend if you're just trying to socialize and relax.
December 17, 2020This area is so green and lush, love it! A little muddy from the rain but not terrible. Marked very well. Great little afternoon hike! Would definitely do again rain or shine
November 26, 2020as expected, slightly muddy with the recent rainfall, but very nice and crisp
November 21, 2020November 8, 2020An awesome afternoon Hike with the Family. Although we had some debate about whether or not they're could pets allowed on the trail. There is a sign that says no dogs at the trailhead however there is a laminated paper that says pets are allowed on leash. Hmm??
October 31, 2020Lots of great fungus to photograph. Lots of large maple leaves. We went mid-Saturday morning and it was very lightly trafficked. Plenty of parking available.
October 18, 2020Quiet and full of birdsong especially if you stop and listen. Enjoyed charming mushrooms and fungi in October! Went after rain so definitely wear shoes that don’t mind the mud. A great place to explore little creeks and fallen trees. Watch out for misleading signage at the trailhead. Go left for ALL TRAILS, including Geneva Pond and the loop trail.
September 7, 2020Trail was well kept. It was windy and we heard some trees fall. Not muddy at all. Beautiful!!!
September 5, 2020August 28, 2020August 23, 2020July 8, 2020Going on this hike is very relaxing and laid back... I’ve done it far too many times. The geese are cool but after the first time, I lost interest.
June 14, 2020May 20, 2020May 4, 2020Good hike for summer time, the trail can be pretty muddy after rain fall. Not to hard, has lots of shade
April 23, 2020Such a beautiful easy local trail! Great for families with kids. An incredibly peaceful and well maintained easy hike. Lots of bird life in the trees and ponds. About halfway onto Stimpson, an elevation gain of 390 feet may be a little challenging for some. Enjoy!
April 22, 2020muddy .. dont fall. and yea. enjoy i guess
April 12, 2020Not muddy at all right now. Perfect time to go!
April 10, 2020Great hike for family. Beautifully secluded trail.
March 25, 2020Absolutely stunning and peaceful nature walk. Perfect for a sunny day. Nothing too steep!
March 8, 2020Wonderful walking or easy running trail.
February 26, 2020Pleasant short trail by Bellingham in a lush forest. Trail in good condition.
February 22, 2020Nice trail, definitely do the pond loop. The main loop is less pretty but nice for a pleasant walk through the woods.
