Bouldering at The Point, Larrabee State Park.
Photo by Kris Taylor.
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Ownership/Management:
Washington State Parks (Larrabee State Park).
Land Manager:
Larrabee State Park
245 Chuckanut Drive
Bellingham, WA 98226
(360) 676-2093
Current status:
Open.
Access considerations:
No known access or environmental concerns.
If exploring bouldering along the railroad tracks, DO NOT get in the way of trains or interfere with the tracks.
Other resources:
Weather forecast
Weather cam
Bellingham tides table.
State Park & camping information
For discussion:
West Side Crags forum
Although Larrabee State Park has a few sandy lead routes, beachside bouldering is what it’s all about. The rock is a soft Chuckanut sandstone that ranges from good to decomposed. At its best, it offers interesting climbing on edges, slopers, and wave-sculpted huecos. A gorgeous setting makes up for any shortcomings of the rock, and there are enough quality problems to make it worth repeat visits. It’s a great place for a family trip to the beach with a little bouldering.
There are two main access points to the beach. The first is at the main parking area at the north end of the park, closest to Bellingham. A short trail leads under the railroad tracks to the north Larrabee beach areas, which include The Point, the New Traverse, and the Pump Tour (a.k.a. Moonwalk).
The second is from the Clayton Beach parking area, to the south on Chuckanut Drive. A short trail leads through the woods to the beach. Two areas—the Fire Pit and Seaside Attraction—stand out with good rock and sandy landings.
Low tides are necessary to climb some problems at Larrabee. If planning a visit, check the tides table above.
Larrabee was Washington’s first state park. Camping is available at the park. For more information, click on the State Parks link above.
Return to Bellingham main page.
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