The state of Washington is known for its beautiful scenery of forests, lakes and mountains. The county seat of Bellingham Washington is in the heart of rugged countryside and is a pleasant environment for residents and tourists. The people are friendly and the climate is generally mild.
The first white settlements date from 1854 and a local gold rush soon followed, bringing rapid expansion to the area. After the railroad system reached the town in the 1890s, the economy grew further and a lumber and coal mining industry thrived around the Bellingham Washington region.
An annual sporting event attracts competitors from all over the world and a television audience, namely the Ski to Sea Race. This team relay race incorporates cross country skiing, downhill skiing or snowboarding, running, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking. Enthusiastic winter sports fans are fortunate in living close to the Mount Baker Ski Area, which has a high peak of 1,551m. The resort is suitable for skiers of all levels of ability and the surroundings are like a picture postcard. There are plenty lifts, consisting of eight chairs and two rope tows.
More impressive scenery is on show at the Whatcom Falls Park, an area encompassing 241 acres with four sets of waterfalls. There are several walking trails and the local population of Bellingham Washington has a tradition of jumping off the cliffs to swim below the falls. There is more sporting activity on offer at Lake Padden Park in the form of tennis courts, a golf course and facilities for fly fishing. Non-powered boating and swimming is allowed on the lake and there are trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding. A playground and picnic areas make it a great family day out.
The local history and culture of the area is well represented in the town's museums. Bellingham Washington has some imaginative initiatives to foster interest in the past life of the community. Whatcom Museum of History and Art presents exhibits of local artwork, natural history and local history events. The museum also organizes walking tours of historical areas in the town. Local schoolchildren benefit from art and history classes developed by the museum and staff also run historic cruises on Bellingham Bay.
The history of the local railway network and its impact on the life of the area is explored at the Bellingham Railway Museum. Highlights of the many displays include a collection of railroad lanterns and an electric model train layout.
|
