Bellingham, Washington, is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting an abundance of parks accessible to its residents. Recent data from the Trust for Public Land (TPL) reveals that almost every resident in Bellingham enjoys the luxury of having a park just a stone’s throw away from their homes, making it one of the leading cities in the nation for park accessibility.
Park Access in Bellingham
An impressive 90% of Bellingham residents can reach a park within a brisk ten-minute walk, far exceeding the national average of 55%. Whether you reside in eastern Bellingham near the serene Lake Whatcom or downtown by the picturesque Bellingham Bay, you’re likely to find a green oasis nearby.
Notably, park access in Bellingham is equitable across different income levels, with high, middle, and low-income residents enjoying similar access to these recreational spaces.
Despite having only 16% of its land area designated for parks, Bellingham boasts nearly 3,000 acres of park space, slightly more than the national median. This underscores the city’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty and providing residents with ample outdoor recreational opportunities.
Popular Parks in Bellingham
Bellingham is home to several beloved parks that attract both locals and visitors alike with their scenic beauty and diverse recreational offerings. Here are some of the city’s most popular parks, along with the number of residents living within a ten-minute walk, as per TPL data:
- Sehome Hill Arboretum: 12,138 residents
- Whatcom Falls Park: 7,231 residents
- Boulevard Park: 4,538 residents
- Maritime Heritage Park (Interurban Greenway): 19,895 residents
- Elizabeth Park: 3,728 residents
- Fairhaven Park: 3,451 residents
- Whatcom Creek Trail: 11,061 residents
- Bloedel Donovan Park: 938 residents
- Zuanich Point Park: 244 residents
Residents can find a comprehensive list of Bellingham parks and their amenities on the city’s website.
Parks in Whatcom County
Bellingham’s commitment to green spaces extends beyond the city limits, outshining neighboring communities in Whatcom County. While Lynden boasts an impressive 87% park access rate, Blaine and Birch Bay fall short, with only 73% and 28% of residents having parks nearby, respectively.
Comparison with Other Washington Cities
Compared to other cities in Washington state, Bellingham’s park access stands out favorably. With a 90% park access rate, Bellingham surpasses numerous cities, including Mount Vernon, Anacortes, Everett, Tacoma, and Olympia, as well as various cities in the Tri-Cities region.
Bellingham’s dedication to preserving green spaces and providing accessible parks underscores its reputation as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, or an adventurous hike, Bellingham’s parks offer endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the region’s natural splendor.