Northwest Washington Hikes: Oyster Dome

I feel like the Oyster Dome Trail is one of those hikes that gives a lot of bang for your buck. Right outside of Bellingham along Chuckanut Drive, this trail is convenient, moderately easy for a seasoned hiker, and has spectacular views of the ocean and San Juan Islands.


This was at least my sixth time doing the Oyster. There are some things you need to bring on this hike: Firstly, you'll need an adventure woof:


Right there Clif is eating grass. Terra a golden woof came as well. Next on the list of necessaries is your trusty hiking buddies. Kat, Alex, and Mimsical joined me this time.


You'll need a mushroom guide to show you what's what. Mimsical was our semi-expert (though he always gets a second opinion before eating anything; you can never be too careful with mushrooms).


This is a puffball, which are edible unless they're overly mature. When that happens, you can squeeze them and green particles POOF out. It's fun. Poof poof poof!

And finally, you can't leave the trail-head without an apple to share with the horses you'll find at the end of the hike.


Well, okay, you don't actually really need any of these things, especially the last one. Horses are aloud on the trail, but this was the first time I had ever seen any. The Oyster Dome Trail is a very pleasant hike to do by yourself. If you do bring your dogs, bring doggie bags to pack their wastes off the mountain. Also, there are some steep parts so bring some decent shoes. And mostly, be respectful of others and enjoy yourself!

It was breezy but surprisingly warm for us this time. Altogether another great trip.


DIRECTIONS: From the north, take Exit 250 to Chuckanut Drive, following that road for about 12 miles. Just past the Oyster Bar is the trailhead on the left side of the road; park on the pavement on the right side of the road. Sometimes it is easy to miss so keep a lookout.

A LITTLE INFO ABOUT THE TRAIL: It begins with a couple miles of switchbacks. I find this to be the toughest part not because it is the steepest or athletically taxing, but switchbacks aren't my thing. But fear not! At the end of this stretch is the first viewpoint! A nice bench overlooks a portion of the waters. This is where my friends and I usually take a water break. Because water is delicious. From there, you'll travel several miles over easier terrain, over some streams and through beautiful woods. Then finally, two very steep parts are the only things between you and the Dome. There is a trail leading to the bat caves in the middle of the second climb. They are very cool and I definitely recommend a visit. When you reach the top of the second incline, you follow a trail up a little hill and reach the end! Soak in the views, go explore. It's fun. Try it.