World Class Vacation Area
We are also close to many of the outdoor activities that have made Whatcom county famous as one of the best places to vacation, including: skiing, snow boarding, hiking and mountain biking at Mt. Baker; eagle watching on the Nooksack river; mountain biking at Galbraith mountain; kayaking and river rafting on the Nooksack river. Boating in Bellingham Bay or a quick trip to beautiful Birch Bay.
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding at Mt. Baker
Skiers and snowboarders have told us that we’re the ideal location because at the end of the ski day, they’re not stuck far out in the county with only a few choices of where to eat and not much to do in the evening. When you stay at Anderson Creek Lodge, you are less than an hour from the ski area and ten to twenty minutes from Bellingham’s restaurants and nightlife. We’ve been told repeatedly that we offer the best all-around value for ski accommodations.
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing at Salmon Ridge Sno-Park
You’re only 50 minutes from the Sno-Park and miles of groomed trails with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. We can tell you where to get a Sno-Park pass and rent equipment.
View and print trail maps of the Salmon Ridge Sno-Park.
Golfing
Choose from seven local courses. Experience the challenge and beauty of golfing Northwest style. You can play 18 holes just 6 minutes away at the Shuksan Golf Course. We’ll get you advanced reservations not available to the public. Also, check out the North Bellingham Golf Course (10 minutes away). Raspberry Ridge Golf Course is within 10 minutes drive as well. Take advantage of the Golf Lab’s specialized golf services previously available only to the PGA tour golfers. Have your swing analyzed by a PGA Pro with a three-camera system and watch your game rapidly improve. Get your clubs adjusted or enjoy a new set of highly customized clubs based on computerized analysis of over 15 of your personal characteristics. You can also play on a variety of world famous simulated indoor video golf courses.
Read more details about golfing in Bellingham
Mountain Biker’s Dream
Choose from beginner to advanced trails, including world-famous Galbraith Mountain trails. We’ll help you find great trails that are best suited to your skill level. Ride through deep forests, experience mountain vistas, expansive water views and more.
Read more biking details, get a Bellingham area trail guide (pdf) or view local trails on trails.com
Hike and Walk Whatcom
Choose from over 50 hikes in the settings you love the most: forest, mountains, rivers, lakes, islands, ocean side or even urban trails. We have information for you on all the trails in this county.
Bird Watching
Get ready to be amazed at the huge variety of bird friends in the area. You’ll experience bird populations in a wide range of habitats ranging from coastal waters, wetlands and islands to mountains, rivers and forests. Many great photo opportunities too! If you’re a serious birder, this one location can add a large amount of sightings to your birds observed list.
Waterfall Walks
Focus your hiking adventures on the many spectacular waterfalls in the area. Enjoy wonderful photo opportunities and fabulous scenery. We’ll provide full trail details, maps, etc
Road Biking
Take off down miles and miles of paved country roads and see the ever-changing views of farms, forests, mountains and water. Visit national and state forests, take a ferry to the islands, and many more possibilities.
Wine Tasting
Visit our local wineries, including many Canadian wineries located right on the border (only 25 minutes away!). Enjoy a day of sampling and beautiful scenery. We’ll also guide you to specialty wine stores, great deals, and spectacular wines waiting for you to discover them.
Lady Luck
Give Lady Luck the chance to smile upon your good fortunes. Enjoy your favorite casino games as you explore our local gambling attractions, including a casino just 8 minutes away!
Eagle Adventures
See the largest population of Bald Eagles in the lower 48 states from December to February. Choose a river raft float trip (Book Early because these are popular!) or we’ll guide you to walking trails that will take you into Eagle territory. Imagine the great photos and memories you’ll take home!
On the Road!
You’ll enjoy the many scenic drives that start just minutes from the lodge. Choose mountains, forests, oceans or islands. We’ll help you set up the perfect trip, including great places to stop for lunch and dinner. Remember your camera for memories of a lifetime.
Read more details about scenic drives
Whale Watching
The whale watching season begins in early May, and many companies provide whale watching tours through the Puget Sound. Book your rooms today and create memories to last a lifetime. You’ll have the exciting chance to see Orca, Gray, Humpback and Minke whales!
Water Adventures
The profusion of fresh water lakes, salt water inlets, and the rivers and streams that unite them have created an abundance of water-based experiences that range from tranquil to thrilling. The marine trail system frequented by kayaks and canoes provides access to protected shoreline and otherwise inaccessible beaches. Too tame? Grab your paddle and strap on your helmet for white knuckle, white water river rafting.