The Best Hikes Near Mt Baker
With over 1,500 miles of hiking trails, there is no shortage of hiking options in the vicinity of Mt. Baker and within the Mt. Baker National Forest.
From shorter hikes with modest elevation gain, to lengthier hikes with lofty ascents, from treks through old growth forests to those traversing grassy meadows and boulder fields, there is an incredible range of options appropriate for every type of hiker. Here are some of my recommendations for the best hikes near Mt. Baker.
Mt Baker Geography: A Quick Overview
Sitting about thirty miles east of Bellingham and sixteen miles south of the Canadian border in northwestern Washington, Mt. Baker is a heavily glaciated volcano in the Cascade Mountain Range and the third highest mountain in Washington state.
Mt. Baker has held a deep significance for the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest for centuries, known as Kulshan in Lummi, Kobah in Skagit, and Quck Sam-ik in Nooksack. In Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, you will find an abundance of history and wilderness, from glaciated peaks and snow fields, to lush meadows and old growth forests.
Mt. Baker hiking trails span a vast area stretching from the Central to the North Cascades.
While the Mt. Baker region is quite expansive, Mt. Baker can generally be categorized into two primary hiking areas: Mt. Baker highway, which is north of the mountain, and the Baker Lake area, which is in the southern sector.
Mount Baker Late June
I read on-line that you can’t hike or get to Mount Baker until August. Is that correct? If we are visiting late June, then is that out? Other mountain areas too?
It all depends on the average annual snowfall and how wet and warm the spring is. This year we’ve had a generous winter snowfall and spring isn’t particularly warm or wet yet . Under those conditions higher elevation trails will still be under snow in June, but will be melting out.
Best be – call the Forest Service Ranger Districts in the area you want to hike a few weeks before your visit to see what local trail conditions and snow levels are. For Mt Baker call the forest service information center in Glacier, Washington in the Mt Baker Snoqualmie National Forest.
Mt. Baker will be under heavy snow in June, as will all of the high elevation mountains such as those in the North Cascades. By late June you can hike a few of the trails in the Olympic Mountains, which are much lower than Mt. Baker or the Cascades or Mt. Rainier. However, even the most accessible trails such as the short Hurricane Hill Trail may have a few snowy patches in their shady areas. Most of the alpine regions in the Olympics will not be accessible. The end of June is way too early for Obstruction Point Rd. and its trails to be open. It is too early for the High Divide, Seven Lakes Basin, and even Deer Lake. Summer begins here in July, not June.
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When Is The Best Time To Hike In Mount Baker
Mount Baker is a legendary skiing destination, with incredible powder and plenty of good resorts. However, the best time to hike in Mount Baker is between June and September. Once the snows melt, this glorious region is perfect for hiking, with a carpet of wildflowers, lush forests, and plenty of beautiful trails. Avoid the busiest months of July and August and plan your trip for the shoulder seasons of early June and late September. You may risk a little snow on higher-elevation trails, but if youre lucky with the weather, this is a wonderful time to explore the region, when there are fewer hikers on the trails and in the campgrounds. In particular, September is glorious, when the forests show off their autumn colors to full advantage.
How To Plan A Trip To Mount Baker
If this has given you itchy feet, its time to put Mount Baker on your hiking bucket list! Weve got all the information youll need to plan your trip to Mount Baker, from advice on accommodation to top tips on the best trails and activities in all seasons. Weve done all the hard work so you dont have to just grab your gear and get out on the trail!
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Stunning Hikes Around Mount Baker
The region around Mount Baker offers plenty of possibilities for fantastic hiking, from epic summits and challenging day hikes, to pleasant lakeside strolls. If youre travelling with children, Mount Baker offers many easy, short hikes at low elevation, with lots of variety and interest to keep young hikers entertained! However, if youre looking for a real challenge, this region is packed with iconic ridge walks and tall summits that will stretch the abilities of even experienced mountaineers. The breathtaking views from the Ptarmigan Ridge or the Skyline Trail will provide ample rewards for all of your efforts.
Mt Baker Highway And Hiking Trails
The Mt Baker Highway, which follows the North Fork Nooksack River Valley in Eastern Whatcom County, provides access to some of the most scenic areas in all the United States. A map of the highway from milepost 25 to its end at Artist Point is provided below.From the highway hundreds of miles of back country roads and trails provide access into this beautiful country.A partial list of the hiking trails with photos are listed below. The conditions of these trails change often due to weather conditions. Current conditions may be found by contacting the US Forest Service by Telephone at the Glacier Service Center during summer months or by visiting the relevant US Forest Service web site: Additional Information and photos on Mt Baker area trails may be posted below from time to time.
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Mount Baker And Boulder River Wilderness Areas Map
Waterproof Tear-Resistant Topographic Map
National Geographic’s Trails Illustrated map of Mount Baker and Boulder River Wilderness Areas is designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the limitless recreational opportunities in the western Cascades of northern Washington. Expertly researched and created in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and others, the map’s coverage includes many attractions in and around Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National…
Waterproof Tear-Resistant Topographic Map
National Geographic’s Trails Illustrated map of Mount Baker and Boulder River Wilderness Areas is designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the limitless recreational opportunities in the western Cascades of northern Washington. Expertly researched and created in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and others, the map’s coverage includes many attractions in and around Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, like Mounts Baker and Shuksan with their glaciers Mount Baker, Boulder River, Wild Sky and Noisy-Diobsud Wilderness Areas Mount Baker National Recreation Area Baker and Spada Lakes Sauk and Skagit Wild and Scenic Rivers and Forks of the Sky, Wallace Falls and Rockport State Parks.
Every Trails Illustrated map is printed on “Backcountry Tough” waterproof, tear-resistant paper. A full UTM grid is printed on the map to aid with GPS navigation.
Other Outdoor Activities In Mount Baker
Mount Baker is probably best known as a fantastic winter sports destination, and when the snows hit, its possible to go cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and sledding across the region. In summer, in addition to hiking and backpacking, you can enjoy a whole range of outdoor activities, from climbing and mountain biking, to fishing, hunting and wildlife watching. This is a brilliant region for camping and multi-day treks, with plenty of fun, family-friendly options on offer!
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What To Pack For Snowshoeing Artist Point Snowshoe
Before you go snowshoeing its important to make sure youre prepared. The following items should be on you or in your pack.
- Nice warm socks
- Outer layer: Thom treated me to an Arcteryx jacket for my birthday and currently I can say I think they are worth the money. But any waterproof outer layer will do
- Thermals/base layer: I like to wear my Mountain Warehouse thermals some good alternatives can be found here for bottoms& tops.
Skyline Divide Trail #:
The Skyline Divide Trails is accessed from the Mt. Baker Highway at milepost 35, then to US Forest Service Road # 39 and then 37. This trails begins at elevation 4,400 feet, and rises 1,500 feet to a ridge where 360 degree vistas are spectacular. This seasonal trail is 3.5 miles in length to the divide, but you can continue exploring various ridges for many additional miles.
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Getting To Mt Baker And The Artist Point Snowshoe Trailhead
You must carry snow chains for your vehicle in winter as required by law.
If you too are coming from Vancouver then the journey is about 2.5 hours . Luckily youll cross the border at Sumas which tends to be a bit quieter than Peach Arch to the west.
From Vancouver head east on the TransCanada Hwy towards Abbotsford. Take exit 92 for USA Border toward British Columbia 11 S. Once past the border take the WA-547S/Front Street and then the WA-542 E until you reach the Upper Lodge/Heather Meadows area of Mt Baker Ski Resort.
Theres ample free parking. If youre staying overnight you must pay $10 for overnight parking.
About The Artist Point Snowshoe Trail
Artist Point marks the end of the Mt Baker Highway and its very easy to see where this destination gets its name from.
In the summer months you can drive the Artist Point road as it winds up the mountains, inching closer to Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan. In the winter, however, youre going to have to snowshoe to Artist Point for the last 3km.
There are incredible views the entire way along the trail and they only get better as you get closer to Artist Point.
Along the way youll pass alongside some ski runs from neighbouring Mt Baker Ski Resort and see Mt Shuksan and Mt Baker as well as hundreds of other mountain peaks as far as the eye can see.
If you look closely youll be able to make out where the switchbacks of the road are when not covered in metres of snow.
Its a busy trail since its neither too hard nor too long. But youll still be able to find a spot near the top of Artist Point to enjoy the views in peace.
Whilst you park by the Mt Baker ski area this trail is out of the ski resort boundary and is part of the Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
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Trip Report: Artist Point Snowshoe Adventure
We began our snowshoe to Artist Point in Washington State just after lunchtime. Whilst there were plenty of other people on the trail it wasnt too crowded.
You begin by snowshoeing pretty close to the ski runs of the Mt Baker ski resort with a gentle climb that soon gets a lot steeper. Luckily there are plenty of beautiful mountain views to distract you!
The day we did it it was super hot and sunny but snowshoes were very much still needed.
The trail steepens considerably once you pass the visitors centre to your right. After about 1.6km of hiking, youll reach Austin Pass and at this point, youre on the last of the big climbs already!
You can sometimes make out the switchbacks of the Mt Baker Highway here as it climbs up to Artist Point.
Youll then start snowshoeing west for the final ascent and the amazing views! We stopped part way along this final climb to take in the views of Baker in front of us and Mt Shuksan behind. If you want some privacy to take in the views Id recommend stopping along here too as the summit gets pretty crowded!
Geological And Historical Notes
Mount Baker exhibited a small amount of volcanic activity in 1975-76 and is expected to erupt again. Steam is often observed emanating from Sherman Crater, just south of the summit. Baker has a geologic history of frequent lahars , the mountain’s greatest geologic hazard.
Baker’s summit, known as Grant Peak, is actually a volcanic crater that is ~1,300 feet deep and overflowing with ice. Younger, smaller Sherman Crater is partially ice-filled and its highpoint, Sherman Peak, is only elevation ~600 feet below the main summit. Two other prominent sub-summits are the Black Buttes — Colfax Peak and Lincoln Peak.
Baker’s proximity to the ocean has motivated a long history of races between the mountain and sea level. The contemporary version of this competition, the Ski to Sea, takes place over Memorial Day weekend .
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Where To Hire Snowshoes Near Mt Baker Washington
The closest Mt Baker snowshoe rental is in the town of Glacier as Mt Baker ski resort doesnt offer snowshoe rentals.
If youre coming from Vancouver you can either rent some from downtown before heading to the US or you can pick some up in the small town of Glacier along the Mt Baker highway. The Glacier Ski Shop rents snowshoes for $20US a day . This is slightly more expensive than renting in Vancouver but its a lot more convenient.
Where To Stay Near Mt Baker Ski Resort
Mt Baker Ski Resort is surrounded by National Forest. If youve read my post about where to camp for free in the US & Canada, youll know you can camp for free in US National Forests for up to 14 days. The forest roads are ideal for Mt Baker camping!
In the winter it can be harder to find a spot in National Forests depending on your vehicle and snow conditions. Especially since forest roads are usually full of potholes and not cleared of snow!
Therefore, Ive listed a couple of other options if youre not a camper or theres too much snow to go journeying down a dirt road! Honestly, these gorgeous cabins near Mt Baker have me rethinking our choice to camp down a forest road!
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Tips For Hiking Around Mt Baker
Research the hike and the current trail conditions beforehand to know if there is anything to be cautious of, such as road closures, bugs, or potentially dangerous trail conditions.
Come prepared and pack sufficient water, protein and energy-rich snacks, layers appropriate for the season, sun protection, and a flashlight. In the fall, always pack a raincoat because weather is unpredictable and appropriate hiking gear to navigate muddy, slippery trails.
Look out for wildlife that might be living among the forests youre walking through in Mt. Baker. Creatures such as deer, mountain goats, marmots, pika, and black bears can be sighted within the forest. Remember to be respectful of their habitat!
Arrive early at the trailhead to ensure that you find parking and beat the crowds as much as possible. This will also help you to beat the heat. I love nothing more than hiking in the crisp, fresh mountain air in the morning and arriving at the summit as the sun is coming out, just in time for a lunch break and a swim in a lake if thats an option on the hike. By autumn, the days are much shorter, so it is advisable to start the hikes on the early side to ensure youll be back to your car before dark.
When To Go Hiking At Mt Baker
The hiking season in Mt. Baker National Forest is all-too brief, albeit glorious while it lasts. I find it challenging to pack in as many hikes in the region as possible and attempt to fill every summer and early fall weekend, and even weekdays with hikes that I can.
Mt. Baker hikes open early summer after the snow has melted from the trails and close after the first snowfall. Although this depends on the year, the hiking season generally lasts from late June to mid-October.
are the peak summer months when wildflowers are blooming. While the sun-soaked blue skies and long days are my favorite time to enjoy Mt. Baker, this also means trails will be more crowded and campgrounds fill up quickly.
Late September through early October offer spectacular displays of fall foliage, Mt. Baker boasts some of the best fall colors in Washington state. Blueberry bushes turn shades of red, purple, and orange, while fireweed turns a rich red and mountain ash become golden yellow. Lake Ann and Yellow Aster Butte are two of my favorite hikes for fall colors in Mt. Baker.
trails are shut for the season. However, come winter, you can hit the slopes in some of Washingtons best ski and snowboarding areas at Mt. Baker or try your hand at snowshoeing or cross-country skiing around Baker Lake area or Artist Peak, which offers a 4-mile round trip snowshoe trail over relatively flat terrain with views of Baker Lake and the Cascades.
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Artist Point Mt Baker Hike Snowshoe Trail Stats
If youre looking for some relatively easy Mt Baker hiking then be sure to check out the Artist Point, Washington trail. This is one of the best bang for your buck Mt Baker snowshoe trails in the area.
- Distance: 6.3km round trip
- Artist Point Trailhead, Washington: Heather Meadows parking lot in Mount Baker Ski Area
- Avalanche Rating: Recommended not to hike if the avalanche rating is above 2/moderate. Check here
- Mt Baker Artist Point trail map. You should strongly consider taking an AST1 course before snowshoeing in areas like this.