State Route 11, also known as Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway, stretches about 22 miles between Burlington and Bellingham. Completed in 1896, Chuckanut Drive provided land access to the community of Fairhaven. Now, it offers stunning views as well as access to great dining and popular hiking trails.
Visitors coming from the south can get there from Interstate 5 at exit 231 in Burlington, where you’ll pass picturesque farmland before winding your way north along the cliffs. Visitors from the north can access the drive from Fairhaven.
Although only some sections of the road offer bike lanes, the route is popular with cyclists. Be sure to keep an eye out — especially along the winding, cliff-hugging northern portion — and share the road with travelers on two wheels.
Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway Attractions
With many viewpoints and points of interest along the way, this drive is best done at a leisurely pace with plenty of time for stops. Working from south to north, here’s a bit of what you can expect.
Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill
Just north of the Samish flats, this restaurant has been serving visitors and locals alike for more than 50 years. Open for lunch and dinner, Chuckanut Manor offers fresh seafood with a side of water views. Don’t miss the Dungeness crab cakes.
Bow-Edison
Located off Chuckanut Drive at the Bow Junction, the charming community of Edison is a compact hub of shops and eateries. Terramar Brewstillery offers beer, spirits, and wood-fired pizzas made with local ingredients. The Taproom is kid and dog-friendly, while the adjoining Speakeasy is 21+. For lighter fare, head to Slough Food for wine, cheese, and small bites in their courtyard a cafe. Before you depart, pick up fresh bread and baked goods from Breadfarm’s curbside window. If you don’t want to leave Chuckanut Drive, Cob + Cork in Bow is located right at the junction and serves up hearty farm-to-table items from land and sea.
Oyster Dome
No matter the season, you’ll likely notice a line of cars parked on the side of Chuckanut Drive as you make your way toward Bellingham. Just south of The Oyster Bar restaurant, you’ll find a trailhead for Oyster Dome, one of the most well-known hikes in the area. Those who choose to hike the steep switchbacks through the forest will be rewarded with fabulous views of Samish Bay and nearby islands.
Tip: Rather than parking along narrow Chuckanur Drive, head to the Samish Overlook parking area on Blanchard Mountain for a shorter but no less epic hike. Plan to visit on a weekday or early in the day to nab a parking spot.
Also See: Discover Washington’s Scenic Byways
The Oyster Bar
Perched along the cliff overlooking the waters of Samish Bay, this fine-dining restaurant draws visitors from far and wide for its oysters, seasonal menu, and award-winning wine list. In warmer months, visitors can enjoy a meal on the outdoor deck.
Taylor Shellfish Farms
This fifth-generation family shellfish farm is the perfect stop for seafood lovers. Enjoy oysters plucked directly from their 1,700 acres of tidelands or choose from other seafood options, including clams, mussels, and fresh local fish. You can choose to shuck your oysters yourself or have a pro show you the ropes. The location also offers a limited seasonal menu that changes daily.
Tip: Parking is limited and weekends fill up quickly, so aim to visit mid-week.
Also See: Salish Sea Oyster Road Trip
Dogfish Point Overlook
Although there are many unnamed pullouts, the viewpoint at Dogfish Point is one of the best. It’s the perfect spot to take in sweeping views of Samish Bay and the nearby islands.
Larrabee State Park & Fragrance Lake Trail
Don’t miss Larrabee State Park, the first designated State Park in Washington. Encompassing more than 2,000 acres covering beach, tidepools, and trails, Larrabee is a favorite among locals and visitors. The Fragrance Lake trailhead and parking lot are directly opposite the park entrance across Chuckanut Drive. At about 5 miles roundtrip, this wooded hike leads to a lovely, secluded lake.
North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead
This trailhead parking lot provides access to many excellent trails including Arroyo Park, Hemlock Trail, Lost Lake Trail, and the Pine and Cedar Lakes Trail.
Chuckanut Bay Gallery and Sculpture Garden
This unique gallery features pieces by Northwest artists working in everything from glass and wood to pottery and jewelry. Visitors can also explore an outdoor garden area complete with sculptures.
Fairhaven
End your drive in Bellingham’s historic Fairhaven District. This charming and walkable neighborhood is full of local galleries, shops, and dining options.