FIND YOUR TRUE PNW
Bellingham, Washington is a unique mix of human vitality and natural geography, situated between the Cascade Mountains and the Salish Sea. Located between Vancouver, BC and Seattle, we've got the dynamic vibe you'd expect from a city, and also offer world-class cycling, snow and water sports, hiking, and much more within an hour's drive. The Heliotrope is at the center of it all, located less than a mile from Bellingham's downtown core and nearby nature. To aid your adventures, we offer bike storage and a bike washing station, boot driers, and comfortable spaces to relax before and after excursions. We provide local knowledge to inform both your urban and outdoor adventures, and a haven at the heart of things to settle in after you've gone out.
OUTER ISLAND EXCURSIONS WHALE WATCHING TOURS
Discover the thrill of whale watching with Outer Island Excursions! Our guests can enjoy a 10% discount on any whale tour using code “LEO” at booking. Their tours boast the highest success rate in the Salish Sea, thanks to their fleet of new, high-speed boats and the expertise of their experienced Captains and Naturalist guides. They find whales on over 95% of their trips, allowing them to confidently offer a whale guarantee. Their state-of-the-art boats feature indoor and outdoor viewing platforms, bathrooms, and ample space, ensuring every guest gets a perfect view.
Don't miss this opportunity to make your stay unforgettable—book now and save!
dig deep guided mountain bike tours & mountain bike rentals
Discover the world-class mountain bike trails of Galbraith Mountain, just 10 minutes from our lobby! Accompanied by a professional mountain biking guide, you'll weave through lush rainforest, stopping at breathtaking views of Bellingham Bay, the Canadian Cascades, and Mount Baker. Whether you are a total beginner, intermediate, or advanced mountain biker, our half-day, full-day, or multi-day bike tours are specifically curated to your ability level!
Don't have your own mountain bike? No problem! We have our own bike rental fleet - add a rental to your tour booking, and your guide will bring it right to the tour meeting location.
Book your tour with a Dig Deep guide for an experience of Bellingham you'll never forget!
Hike, ski, snowboard
Mount Baker, with world-class snow sports and stunning hikes for all skill levels, is just a 75 minute drive from the Heliotrope. More adventures big and small can be found nearby in the Chuckanut Mountains and various parts of Whatcom County.
kayak, canoe, paddle board & More
Bellingham is surrounded by the Salish Sea, lakes Whatcom, Samish, and Padden, the Nooksack River, and many other waterways. Whatcom County has stream-side strolls, river tubing, kayaking, sailing, and lakeside trail runs. Ask our staff for recommendations!
biking, walking and urban opportunities
While Whatcom County's geography invites adventure, the city inspires curiosity. Many locals thrive on local trails, including mountain biking on world-class trails at Galbraith Mountain. Walking trails thread their way throughout city and county. Bellingham also hosts unique places like The Spark Museum of Electrical Invention, the independent Pickford Cinema, Mindport Exhibits, summertime outdoor movies and concerts, and much more of interest to keep the whole family occupied.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Before or after adventure, Bellingham has more than enough restaurants, food trucks, breweries, farmers markets and cafes to keep your appetite preoccupied too. Enjoy any meal in historic Fairhaven, bustling downtown, or pair a beautiful drive with a delicious meal out in the county.
Bellingham Tap Trail (local breweries)
Heliotrope's food and beverage guide
HISToric fairhaven district