Nooksack River Legacy Forest Hike

Did you know that one of the most ecologically important forests in the Nooksack River watershed is currently threatened by logging?

Join the Legacy Forest Defense Coalition (LFDC), Sierra Club Mt. Baker Group, Center for Responsible Forestry (CRF) and Forest Talks & Forest Walks for a hike into this remarkable forest ecosystem. We’ll learn more about what makes these forests so ecologically important, the threats they currently face, and how community members can help protect them.

Where: Nooksack River Bald Eagle Viewing Area
Please note: This is not the Deming Homestead Eagle Park.

What to Expect

Distance: Approximately 3–3.5 miles round-trip
Elevation gain: Approximately 350 feet
Terrain: On- and off-trail travel with some light bushwhacking

About the Hike: In Whatcom County, two Washington Department of Natural Resources timber sales—North Fork Start Up and Secretariat—target approximately 170 acres of native legacy forest along the North Fork of the Nooksack River. These sites contain rare western redcedar- and hardwood-dominant legacy forests in a landscape where much of the low-elevation native forest has already been converted to timber plantations. The proposed sales are also near sensitive riparian habitat and bald eagle nesting areas along a stretch of the Nooksack well known for eagle viewing. During our walk, we’ll have the opportunity to experience these forests firsthand while learning more about their ecological importance, the proposed timber sales, and ongoing efforts to protect them.

Need a Ride or Have a Seat to Share? Join our Forest Walk carpool to request a ride or offer a seat to another Forest Friend.

A Note About the Terrain

This hike may be challenging for some participants. We recommend being comfortable traveling on uneven terrain and wearing sturdy hiking footwear, long pants, and clothing appropriate for potentially wet conditions. We want our Forest Walks to be as inclusive and accessible as possible. If you have accessibility questions or would like to discuss accommodations, please contact kyle@wlfdc.org in advance.