Did the 11 mile loop via the Chanterelle Connector Trail. A few tree blowdowns that required navigating around, but not a game stopper -- the worst one just past the top of the stairs section. Trail in its usual good condition, just be careful of slippery leaves on the downslope stretches (they also hide "heel grabber" rocks). Low traffic, only passed by one mountain biker.

Rainy. We got soaked through, apparently there isn't a rain jacket that can keep me dry. there was one spot where a few freshly broken branches blocked the trail, I was able to move most of them out of the way and it was easy enough to get over/under. There was a great view of the inside of a cloud, but other than that it was cold and wet. I guess I need better rain gear.

Hiked the Chanterelle Trail to the lookout and back with a companion, starting at 8.30am. There was only a handful of cars in the lower portion of the parking area, and one in the upper (near the trailheads for Chanterelle and the Wickersham Truck Road - note the trailhead near the vault toilet in the lower lot is for the Hertz Trail). Privy was in about as pristine a condition as a vault facility can be - clean, with plenty of TP and hand sanitizer. Trail was in excellent condition, though quite dry (thus a bit dusty). We heard a number of songbirds, and had a young melanistic phase squirrel come zooming across the trail on our descent to our rear, scolding us for disturbing his peace. Virtually no bugs (and none biting, thankfully). Superb views across Lake Whatcom, Sudden Valley, Bellingham and the San Juans when we got to the lookout (which had just recently had the blackberries brushed back from the gravel trail to the lookout, very helpful as it looked like they'd gotten quite long over the summer). Met a few other hikers (with and without dog companions) going both ways but the trail was uncrowded and beautiful despite it being too early for fall colors to really have started to develop (only a very few big leaf maples starting to yellow a bit and drop leaves). This trail is a great outing every time I'm on it, and this was a nice, short, close in late summer hike for those wanting to get out before fall really sets in.

Arrived at the trailhead in the afternoon and there were plenty of spots to park. Please note, to hike up the Chanterelle Trail, head towards the back of the parking lot. There you will see trailhead signage. If you park in the first spots, the most obvious trailhead will lead you to Whatcom Lake.

We opted for the 2.4 mile (4.8 mile round trip) hike to the lookout. The trail was very well maintained and a nice continuous grade upwards. You cross over a couple of gravel roads but the trail is well marked to have you cross and continue the right way. Towards the top, where you turn right to go to the lookout there are lots of blackberry bushes. 

We encountered only a few hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. Overall, it was a calm and enjoyable trail. I bet it is fun to play in the lake on a hot day, too. 

the trail was in good condition. we did come across a mated pair of owls along the trail. they appeared to be barred owls. they were hissing, screeching, but luckily they didnt attempt to grab our pig tails!