Padden Creek drains an area of approximately six square miles, originating in the Chuckanut Mountains south of the city and east of Lake Padden. The stream flows northwest from Lake Padden for approximately 2.7 miles before discharging into Bellingham Bay. Connelly Creek is the only major tributary that enters downstream of Lake Padden. Padden Creek historically provided approximately five miles of accessible salmon habitat downstream of Lake Padden (Williams 1976). According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), Padden Creek currently supports runs of Chum and Coho salmon, and occasionally is used by migrating Chinook salmon and Steelhead trout. Spawner surveys have also documented a population of resident and sea-run cutthroat trout as well as occasional use by steelhead trout.
The main stem of Padden Creek, as well as its largest tributary, Connelly Creek, travel through residential, commercial and public areas. Neighbors, business owners and restoration crews work to provide and protect the diverse riparian zone along the creek. Learn about planned and completed restoration projects in Padden Creek and other watersheds.
