The park's permanent art collection includes works created from stone, bronze, wood, and steel.
The property contains a notable collection of Japanese maples and mature rhododendrons.
It was developed as a commercial nursery called 'Big Rock Garden' by George and Mary Ann Drake beginning in the 1970s.
The City of Bellingham maintains the site as a 'passive' park, prohibiting organized sports or large group events to preserve the quiet environment.
Big Rock Garden Park is a 2.5-acre hillside botanical collection and sculpture park located in the Silver Beach neighborhood of Bellingham. The site features a permanent collection of over 35 sculptures by international and local artists set amidst diverse plantings. The terrain is characterized by a mix of wooded slopes, rock outcroppings, and landscaped Japanese-inspired gardens. Visitors navigate the park via a network of paved paths and stairs that integrate with the natural topography. The property was originally a private nursery and display garden before being acquired by the City of Bellingham in 1993. It emphasizes the integration of art with nature, particularly during the spring bloom season.
The main upper trail intersection, which offers a clear sightline of the most prominent large-scale stone sculptures framed by Japanese maples.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the park features a significant incline and multiple sets of stairs.
Bring a camera, as the interplay between the sculptures and the seasonal flora changes rapidly throughout the year.
Check the City of Bellingham's website for occasional guided sculpture tours or seasonal maintenance closures.
Attempting to visit with strollers or wheelchairs, as the steep, stair-heavy topography makes large portions of the park inaccessible.
Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate landscape and maintain the quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
