We are the Bellingham Traverse
Powered by Pacific Multisports
The Bellingham Traverse began in 2002, to celebrate the life-cycle of wild salmon, showcase Bellingham Parks and Greenways and as a means for community members to support local non-profits. In 2013, we started Recreation Northwest to manage the event and create value for our community.
In the fall of 2018, the Bellingham Traverse was sold to Pacific MultiSports. Marc Blake, the owner of Pacific Multisports, is also the race director of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon, involved in the Triathlon Club and expanding his new business into timing and other race related services. Marc raced the Traverse as a Chinook (soloist) and wants to see it continue as a beloved community event. You can read more about the race’s transition in this blog post.
You can check out all of Pacific Multisports’ upcoming events here.
Traverse News
Win an Old-School Traverse Race Shirt
Want a free shirt? We have a lot of old-school Traverse race shirts and this is your chance to win one for free! The contest is open through March 10. Everyone who posts will win a [...]
The Story Behind the Bellingham Traverse Logo
The new Traverse logo by Joseph Johnson When the Bellingham Traverse started in 2001, the founder Todd Elsworth partnered with a local designer Loren Bates from 360 Productions to create the original logo. The [...]
Fairhaven Park Directional Trail Signage Project
As Stewards of Fairhaven Park, people in the community have been asking us for directional trail signs to be installed. This will help them navigate through the trails in Fairhaven Park and connect with the Interurban and [...]
Bellingham Traverse SOLD to Pacific Multisports
Yes, this is BIG NEWS! As the host of The Bellingham Traverse for the past 17 years, I am making the decision to pass the torch to another group- Pacific Multisports. This will enable this iconic Bellingham event to mature [...]
Foul Weather Paddle Course Alternative Plans
With the ever evolving forecast for Traverse Day, we would like to share how we plan to handle the weather and provide for a safe and fun experience for all of our folks- Spawners, Volunteers, Support Crew and Spectators. [...]
Preview the new Trail Run course in Fairhaven
This year, there is one major change to the Trail Run course in Fairhaven. Come out on Tuesday, September 11th at 6:00 pm Meet at Fairhaven Middle School. We’ll run at a casual pace from the start at [...]
Volunteer Orientation at Backcountry Essentials 9/13 @ 7pm
Hey Folks, If you’re new to or interested in volunteering for the Traverse, come meet the CREW. Come early and check out all the great new and used gear in the store! Here’s more information on Volunteering [...]
2018 Bellingham Traverse T shirts
Each year we offer a new color to add to your Traverse T-shirt collection. This year, we’re going with this look for both men and women: Order yours before September 3rd! Buy them when you register your [...]
Get a Room! for the Traverse in September
Coming from out of town for the Traverse this September? Get a Room! These are the handpicked places we have to offer. Throughout Bellingham and Whatcom County, you’ll find a diverse selection of traditional and unique lodging [...]
2017 Bellingham Traverse Wrap Up
This past weekend we hosted the Bellingham Traverse. We’ve been at this endeavor for 16 years and yes, it’s evolved over the years, but the foundation of fun is at the core. As Kai Rysdall says [...]