Rails to Trails: Running the Interurban from Fairhaven to the Sea

A 6.6-mile rails-to-trails adventure through Bellingham's Chuckanut Mountains, where old trolley lines meet waterfalls, island views, and rugged Pacific Northwest coastline.

At LLRULE, we chase trails that tell a story. The Interurban Trail in Bellingham, Washington, has been telling its story for over a century, first as an electric trolley line connecting towns, now as one of the Pacific Northwest's most versatile multi-use trails. From Fairhaven to Larrabee State Park, this 6.6-mile route delivers everything: waterfalls, forest, mountain views, and glimpses of the San Juan Islands rising from Chuckanut Bay.

This is the kind of trail that rewards runners, hikers, and adventurers alike. It's long enough to push yourself, varied enough to keep things interesting, and beautiful enough to make you forget you're working. Whether you're looking for a solid training run or an all-day adventure with side trails and beach detours, the Interurban has you covered.

Bridges and boardwalks carry you across creeks and wetlands throughout the trail.

A Trail With History

The Interurban Trail follows the path of an old electric trolley line that once connected Bellingham's neighborhoods to Larrabee State Park and beyond. That trolley stopped running decades ago, but the route it carved through the Chuckanut Mountains remains transformed into a "rails-to-trails" corridor that's become a staple for the local running and hiking community.

There's something satisfying about running a route that once carried commuters and day-trippers. The grade is gentle, only about 300 feet of elevation gain across the entire length, which means you can find a rhythm and hold it. The surface varies from packed gravel to forest floor, with a few sections crossing private gravel roads where residents have authorized trail access. It feels like a trail with purpose, carved into the landscape by people who understood that the journey matters as much as the destination.

"Waterfalls, island views, and coastline,all on one run. The Interurban doesn't make you choose."

The Route: Fairhaven to Larrabee State Park

Most runners start at Fairhaven Park on the north end there's ample parking, and it sets you up for a point-to-point adventure or a solid out-and-back. From there, the trail heads south, passing through Arroyo Park before climbing a set of switchbacks and continuing through the forested Chuckanut Mountains.

About a mile in, you'll hit an optional 0.6-mile side loop that breaks off to Hoag's Ponda quiet, forested pond with a wooden bench that makes for a perfect mid-run pause. Keep going south and you'll enter Arroyo Park, where unmarked side trails tempt you to explore. Stay on the main trail through dense forest, and you'll eventually emerge at Larrabee State Park, Washington's first state park and one of the most beautiful coastal spots in the region.

Run it one way with a shuttle. Run it out-and-back for nearly 12 miles of solid training. Or pick a section and make it your own. The Interurban doesn't demand anything,it just delivers.

Several quaint waterfalls appear along the trail, perfect for a quick photo or moment of stillness.

What You'll See Along the Way

The Interurban Trail is a sensory experience. Dense Pacific Northwest forest gives way to creek crossings and footbridges. Waterfalls appear around corners small but picturesque, cascading through moss-covered rocks. As you move south toward the coast, the forest opens up to reveal sweeping views of Chuckanut Bay and the San Juan Islands in the distance.

The trail ends at Larrabee State Park where forest meets the rugged Salish Sea coastline.

Multi-Use Means Everyone's Welcome

One of the best things about the Interurban? It's built for everyone. Runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and even equestrians share the trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. You might round a corner and pass a horse and rider, or share a nod with a cyclist heading the opposite direction. It's the kind of trail that brings a community together,and reminds you that the outdoors belong to all of us.

The Interurban is a multi-use trail—runners share the path with hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of the Interurban is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to run it:

The Full Send (13.2 miles): Start at Fairhaven Park, run to Larrabee State Park, turn around and come back. Solid training day with variety and views.

The Point-to-Point (6.6 miles): Arrange a shuttle or drop a car at Larrabee, then run one way from Fairhaven. Finish at the beach and call it a win.

The Explorer: Start at Arroyo Park, hit the side loop to Hoag's Pond, then continue south as far as you want. Turn around whenever feels right.

The Beach Day: Run to Larrabee, spend some time exploring the tide pools and coastline, then run back. The best kind of destination run.

Why We Love It

The Interurban Trail is the kind of route that makes you want to come back. It's accessible enough for beginners but interesting enough for experienced trail runners. The terrain changes. The views evolve. The history beneath your feet reminds you that trails connect us to the land, to the past, and to each other.

If you're in Bellingham,or planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest put the Interurban on your list. Start at Fairhaven, chase the waterfalls, and don't stop until you hit the sea. That's the kind of adventure we live for.

From ski to sea and everything in between. This is the LLRULE way.

Trail Map

The Interurban Trail connects Fairhaven Park to Larrabee State Park through the Chuckanut Mountains.