Chantrelle Trail to Brown Pow

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Drops/Jumps · Views

A long, twisting climb shrouded by large evergreens gradually switchbacks up Stewart mountain to the top of Brown Pow trail. During the climb you'll get two major viewpoints over Lake Whatcom that make excellent rest stops. Once you reach the summit it is nearly all downhill from there. It is a long, fast, and technical descent with natural drops, steep sections, and a few built up bike park-esque berms lower down on the trail. Make sure to exercise caution and ride within your limits.

After you cross Wickersham Truck Road for the final time you'll have a short but punchy climb to the top of Brown Pow.

The parking lot for Lake Whatcom Park can fill up quickly on the weekend, but there is lots of roadside parking across the street. There is one small bathroom in the trailhead parking lot. It is a pit toilet, so no potable water or amenities.

Start on Chantrelle Trail for the climb. This is an excellent multi-use climbing/hiking trail, and it is uphill only for cyclists. Riders should yield to hikers, but the trail is wide enough you shouldn't have any problems. About halfway up the climb you'll reach your first major road crossing / split in the trail. Continue onwards to the overlook, take in the excellent views of Lake Whatcom, then continue up the rest of the trail and a short, punchy climb to the top of Brown Pow.

The Chantrelle climb is certainly challenging, but your hard work will be rewarded with an awesome descent. Brown Pow is a ripping downhill with a mix of fast flow, technical rooty sections, a couple natural drops, and some steep spots. It starts off steep and technical and then gets more fast, smooth, and flowy as you work your way down. Make sure you have fresh brake pads, and get ready for some of the best arm pump you've ever had in your life!

In the summer, I like to ride down to the bottom of the lower parking lot and jump in the lake to cool off, then go have a drink with friends.