You don’t have to travel far in Bellingham before you come across one of Gretchen’s murals. Even if you don’t know resident Gretchen Leggitt by name, you likely recognize her vibrant colors and bold lines inspired by the Pacific Northwest landscape. Though Gretchen has painted murals in other Washington towns, and in Oregon, Colorado, and California, we’re lucky to have the highest concentration of murals right here in Bellingham. (You’ll visit 18 of them on this route!) There are plenty of other murals in town, but Gretchen’s influence is everywhere as she’s passionate about increasing the prevalence and diversity of public art in the city. For this ride, we’re celebrating Gretchen’s Murals. (Stay tuned for future rides featuring other Bellingham muralists.)

Not only is this tour a visual delight, it’s a gastronomical one, too. Consider yourself warned! There are numerous places — all tied to Gretchen’s murals — where you can stop along the route for a refreshment of the liquid and solid variety. Pace yourselves. Before your first pedal stroke, it may be prudent to embrace a “progressive” approach to the culinary stops — a snack here, a beverage there, a dessert over yonder. 

The route begins at Waypoint Park. Pedal over to the Fountain District, where you’ll see Gretchen’s painted utility pole as well as a mural of Mt Baker. Then head over to Greene’s Corner for another mural and your first refreshment break. The massive Kelp Forest is next on the route, followed by the whimsical Astrowhip. Head over to see the Wander Mural where you can enjoy an IPA, and follow it up with a visit to see the Bliss Mural and to experience utter taste bud bliss. Next up is the Sundial mural, which serves both an artistic and scientific function, and then there’s Weather Window a short distance away. From there you’ll see Fitz Roy, an iconic peak at VITAL Climbing Gym, and Hope, a figurative mural. You might even be inspired to pause your ride for some indoor bouldering. Afterwards, pedal over to the Herald Building, where you’ll admire the Heron in the alley, see an artistic visualization of making Kombucha, and have the opportunity to fuel up on some yummy Hawaiian cuisine at Ono Bar & Kitchen to power you through the rest of your ride. Salmon is the theme for the next two murals: Salmon Run and Salmon Woman. Swing by the Farmer’s Market to see collaborative creation on your way down to Encogen, the largest mural in Washington state. Finally, you’ll pass Honoring the Salish Sea as you return to Waypoint Park.

Note: Gretchen’s Murals Lite does not visit the Kelp Forest mural.