Float the Nooksack!

Looking for a cool way to enjoy the heat wave in Whatcom County? Look no further than the Nooksack River. Gather a few friends and some flotation devises and head east of Bellingham to float the Nooksack.

Floating the Nooksack River provides a way to see Whatcom County like you never have before. Observe the unique geology, flora and fauna that mother nature generously provides us by being part of the river for a few hours.

Have respect for the river. At times the water is hardly flowing, other times the water can turn into mild rapids. It is a good idea to always have an escape plan.

Know your limits. If you do not feel comfortable in the water, you should probably steer clear of this activity. Last year the Western Front reported there was a missing person on July 17, 2009 who was presumed drowned on the Nooksack.


Things to be careful of:
- Obstacles in the river are around every corner. Always be looking down river. If you find yourself approaching a rock or large stump in the river, keep your feet in front of you and gently maneuver around the obstacle.
- Shallow water. Scraping the bottom of the river with your floatation devise is a good way to pop it. The Nooksack River is constantly changing, many factors apply to the discharge, or flow of the river. If you find yourself approaching a shallow area do not be afraid to stand up and walking downstream to a more suitable, deeper area.


Things you need on this adventure:
Floating devise
Cold beverages
Sun block
Shoes (good idea, as you will most likely be walking on river rocks at some point in time on your journey)


There are many places to enter and exit the Nooksack safely and lawfully. I recommend These entry and exit points.

Also, be mindful of where you park. Tow trucks have been known to be out in full-force towing cars that have been parked off of Highway 9.