Bellingham, WA Summary

Bellingham (population 61,240) has the 10,778-foot Mt Baker as a backdrop, numerous parks, three nearby lakes, and is close to Mt Baker-Snoqualamie National Forest and Mt Baker National Recreation Area. The city was settled in 1852 and quickly grew into a coal-mining and lumber center. By the early 1900s, it had become a major center for salmon canning. Today, tourism and agriculture are the major economic forces. Alaska-bound travelers board the ferries of the Alaska Marine Highway System. Ferries to Canada’s Vancouver Island and the San Juan Islands are also available. Ships arrive and depart regularly at Bellingham Cruise Terminal, in the city’s Fairhaven Historic District. Train and bus service is available.