Quiet Reflection

The Canyon Lake Community Forest is not so much a hidden gem but a nearly inaccessible one, surrounded by private timberland and unreachable to the community except by bike or by foot. It contains some of the oldest trees in Washington with some estimated to be between 800-1000 years old, a staggering number. As a result of this isolation the lake and forest are breathtaking and serene. Living in the PNW it is a familiar site to see a trail head crammed with cars on any given day of the week but it is a peaceful experience to come upon a similar parking lot and find it overgrown, in the process of being reclaimed by the forest. The closing of the road to cars has created a sanctuary for those that seek it out but it also threatens the access and maintenance of the trails that we usually take for granted. The loop trail around the lake is almost entirely overgrown and the out and back to the old growth is better but is being swallowed by the forest. This is a unique and magical place which helps you appreciate why we need protected forests.

The Ride

Compared to my first route this one is fairly short and well known. It has the great payoff of Canyon Lake right in the middle and you can start and finish right on the Nooksack which is perfect for a dip after a hot ride. A good place to park is at the Welcome Bridge parking lot which usually has space if you get there early enough and is the “start” of this ride. However, the nature of this loop is such that it would be a good adventure from Bellingham. There is plentiful water along the route if you have a filter but two or three bottles should suffice as it is only about 19 miles of riding. You could get away with 33mm tires but bigger is better as there is a little bit of chunky gravel on the decent.

Climbing

Leaving from Welcome Bridge you turn onto North Fork Road immediately. North Fork Road is a nice, mostly flat road that turns to gravel as it follows the Nooksack river north. Before too long you’ll take a right turn just before crossing Racehorse Creek and start heading up hill. This road very quickly kicks up the gradient to near hike-a-bike levels but that only last for about a quarter of a mile before turning into a very enjoyable gradual climb. This is where you’ll be treated to the best views across and down the valley as you traverse across the hillside before turning toward the heart of the mountains and Canyon Lake. Only a few miles remain until swooping down to Whatcom County’s most inaccessible public park.

The Park

Once in the park bikes are unfortunately not permitted on the trails so I’d recommend bringing some walking shoes to take a look around. Just up the main path on the north side of the lake is a path down to the water, a little further on is a 50 million year old palm frond fossil. Unfortunately the old growth grove is a 7.5 mile round trip so if you’ve got the gumption you can make a pretty long day exploring this wonderful place.

Descent

Leaving the lake and getting back is remarkably quick. Taking the turn left and downhill at the post with arrow signs on it you’ll quickly descend some chunky switch backs and blazing fast straights to the base of the mountain and make it back to Mosquito Lake Road. From there it’s a quick hammer back to Welcome Bridge and you’re done baby.

P.S. Sorry about the pretentious title, I think I blacked out or something.