Whatcom County, situated in the northwest corner of Washington, provides numerous opportunities to stay fit, especially if you're love the outdoors. The county's rich agricultural resources and vast natural landscapes make it easy to eat and exercise well. During the summer especially, the county's temperate climate makes it easy to vary your physical activity.
Road and Mountain Biking
Whatcom County's Galbraith Mountain has been written up as "one of the best biking playgrounds in the country," according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. While technically privately owned forestlands, local foresters and bikers have a legal agreement allowing for recreation on the property. The location's extensive and varied trail system is a huge asset for both the avid and the novice mountain biker and local nonprofit resources are even available to assist bikers in getting up on the mountain to be active. Bikers come from as far away as Seattle to explore the area's former logging trails.
Canoeing and Whitewater Rafting
Those who love paddle sports will find a home in Whatcom County. Whatcom Creek, which runs mostly through the the county's biggest city, Bellingham, offers a number of exciting opportunities for canoeing and rafting without leaving the comforts of civilization. The creek is mostly recommended for more advanced paddlers, according to Riverfacts. Additionally, nearby rivers like the Nooksack also have canoe runs, but again, attention should be paid to the particular section of river and might be best handled with the assistance of a professional guide.
Kayaking
Whatcom County's lakes, rivers and ocean shores provide ample chances for kayakers to gain experience and take on new challenges. This outdoor activity, which helps build and maintain upper body strength, can take some training for safety, but is definitely more accommodating to novices on calmer lakes and ponds such as Lake Whatcom and Lake Padden. More seasoned kayakers might find themselves more interested in the sometimes challenging waters of Bellingham and Chuckanut bays. As always, kayakers should go out with friends, be aware of the weather, and know their limit.
Fresh Local Food
Because of its dedicated agricultural heritage, Whatcom County is a good place to find fresh foods rich in the nutrients critical to maintaining a wholesome diet. Starting in April and running through September, the county seat of Bellingham is home to twice-weekly farmers markets featuring local produce. Additionally, many restaurants enroll in a regular "eat local week" that functions throughout the summer and helps the health-conscious to partake in some of the fresher dining options available.
Snowboarding and Skiing in Wintertime
Whatcom County is rainy in the winter. While the rain and cold might make it hard to continue summer recreation, there is an upside for the exercise-conscious: the ski and snowboard runs open up in Whatcom County's mountains, which are home to some of the world's most famous winter sport activities. Mount Baker, for example, is considered to be a major destination for snowboarding athletes. Other winter sport activities might include snowshoeing and ice skating.
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