If you're in or traveling to Bellingham, and craving a classic PNW outing, look no further than Oyster Dome: perched on the western slope of Blanchard Mountain in the Chuckanut Range, this hike delivers stunning panoramic views of Samish Bay, San Juan Islands, Olympic Mountains, and even Vancouver Island on a clear day!

TRAIL OVERVIEW:

• Distance: ~4–5 mi round‑trip from Samish Overlook; ~6–7 mi from the Chuckanut Drive access
• Elevation Gain: ~1,050 ft from Samish Overlook; ~1,900 ft from Chuckanut Drive
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with steep switchbacks and rocky, root-filled sections
• Best Seasons: Spring through Fall (but open all year round)
• Time: 3-4 hours depending on pace
• Parking: There is no parking lot off of Chuckanut Drive, but you can park on the shoulder if you're vehicle isn't too big. If parking here, make sure your vehicle is safely off the road and look both ways when crossing the highway

OUR TIPS FOR THE TRAIL:

• Start early on weekends to snag a parking spot, especially along Chuckanut; weekdays are usually less busy (we went on a Friday and had no trouble finding parking off Chuckanut)
• Off‑leash dogs: Obedient pups on leash are welcome (but guard them near cliff edges at the top!)
• Gear Up Wisely: Sturdy, comfortable hiking footwear, ideally with tread, are essential for the rocky terrain you’ll encounter, and a comfortable backpack to carry supplies
• Recommended Supplies: Water, snacks, additional lightweight layers (highly recommend, even if warm; nice to have this at the top post-sweat), and don't forget your Discover Pass. If you’re headed up during the summer, we recommend packing bug spray, sunglasses, sunscreen and of course, some extra water

WHAT WE PACKED:

^^Camelbak with hydration bladder, hat, collapsible dog water bowl, energy chews, dog kibble and treats, extra collapsible water bottle, sunglasses, mini pocket knife, mandarins, sling bag with personal belongings, bug spray (you never know), sunscreen and lightweight long sleeve windbreaker-type jacket

The first part of the hike--in our humble opinion--from the bottom of Chuckanut leading up to the Samish Overlook connector, is the hardest part with steeper terrain (hello calf burn). After the Samish overlook connector however, it’s all uphill of course, but the switchbacks are significantly less steep and more forgiving, meaning you can clip along at a steady pace straight to the top. 

^^ Our view from the top! Weather was overcast and we had a little rain for the last 20 minutes of the climb. Happy we packed an extra layer for the top to keep warm post-climb.

POST-HIKE TREAT:

After making our way back down from the top (thank you knees), we treated ourselves to lunch at the one and only Taylor Shellfish Farms. This place is an absolute gem off Chuckanut Drive, and just a few minutes drive north from the Chuckanut trail head. The location, atmosphere and food are always fantastic; we cannot recommend it enough!

The ideal mix of workout, forest bathing, and jaw-dropping coastal views, Oyster Dome does not disappoint. Whether it's a misty spring morning or a crisp fall afternoon, this hike promises a revitalizing connection with nature. Just bring your Discover Pass, favorite trail shoes and sense of wonder—and respect the cliffs.

Happy hiking friends!

What's your favorite PNW hike? Let us know in the comments! :))