Artist Ridge

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.0 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
46 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.6
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Artist Ridge Hike near Mt Baker, Washington

The Artist Ridge hike boasts a huge payout for relatively little effort. This 1.9 km lollipop hike is an extremely popular summer photo destination. Everyone loves the views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker, and beyond.

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Route Description for Artist Ridge

Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance at solitude, as this trail is extremely popular midday.

Begin walking south on the paved path at the southeast corner of Artist Point parking lot. The trailhead is signed here, with Mount Shuksan visible beyond. The first 50 m of the trail are paved, making it easily accessible to all. However, snow can linger late into summer so, you may find yourself traversing a mini-snowfield in August.

Where the pavement ends, at 0.2 km, an overlook area and bench await. From here the trail begins to climb over rock-steps towards Huntoon Point. Follow the path upwards, reaching a large reflective snow-melt tarn at 0.8 km. This is an excellent place to snag a photo of Mount Shuksan reflected in the water.

Beyond the 0.8 km point, several social trails sprawl out over Huntoon Point. Because the alpine meadows are fragile here, please stay on the gravel trail. Make a short loop before returning the way you came - watching for Mount Baker views to your left on the way back to Artist Point.

Would you like to see more hikes in Mount Baker? Check out the Yellow Aster Butte, Chain Lakes Loop, Skyline Divide Trail or Heliotrope Ridge.

Insider Hints for Artist Ridge

  • Alpenglow on Mount Shuksan makes Artist Ridge a stunning sunset spot.
  • Combine Artist Ridge with nearby trails like Table Mountain and Picture Lake to make the most of your trip.
  • Families may want to bring sleds and snow gear for the kids.

Getting to the Artist Ridge Trailhead

From Glacier, drive east on Mount Baker Highway to the end of the road at Artist Point parking area. A Northwest Forest Pass is required here.

Route Information

  • When to do

    July to October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Toilets

    Yes, at Artist Point parking lot

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Extreme

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Artist Ridge Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Artist Ridge Reviews

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