Trail Description:
Lake Padden offers something for everyone. For the most novice riders, there is the lake loop which is an extremely gentle loop around the edge of the lake. The total elevation gain for this loop is less than 50 feet and it is a wide gravel path the entire way. You can get on this part of the trail from practically anywhere in the park and there are plenty places to stop and relax. The total loop is 3.5 miles.

For the intermediate rider, here is a loop you are sure to enjoy. This loop can be combined with either the beginner or the advanced trails to add even more mileage, but on its own it is 3.8 miles. From the sign and map, go to your left.

.1 miles go straight. More advanced trails are up the hill to the right.

.4 miles come to some powerlines. Continue straight.

.8 miles continue straight again. You will come back via the trail to the left. It is much more fun down than up.

1.1 miles If your an advanced rider, turn right here for the decent from hell. These switchbacks are nasty. For the intermediate rider, go left here and start climbing. While climbing you will get a small taste of what is on the advanced trail.

1.5 miles go straight. If you want to practice going over logs, the trail to the right is for you.

1.8 miles go left. To the right is a fun 1 mile out and back that is well worth the side trip.

2.2 miles turn right. You are now back on the original part of the trail you started on.

3 miles back at the sign and map.

For the advanced rider there is plenty for you as well. Start off by following the same trail as the intermediate route above. At 1.1 miles turn right down the hill. Here you will encounter countless steep and sharp switchbacks. Unless you're a trials pro, YOU WILL DAB! I don't have a mileage log for this section of the trail because after a few to many endos, my cycle computer quit cooperating. The trail will loop back to the lake after a few miles and you will never be more than 3 miles from the parking lot. You can't make a wrong turn on these trails.

How to get there:
From Everett go North on I-5. Exit at N. Lake Samish Rd. in Bellingham. Follow Samish way for 2.4 miles until you get to the East entrance to Lake Padden Park. Turn left into the park and follow that road 1 mile all the way to its end near the softball fields. Park here. Head directly into the woods and you will see a large sign with a map of the trail system that will help you get your bearings.