Hikes in Mount Baker
Activities in Mount Baker
Known to the indigenous population of Puget Sound as ‘White Sentinel’, the towering volcano of Mount Baker has long been known for its snow. Indeed, this majestic peak, which looms over the border between the US and Canada, is best known as a winter sports destination, offering perfect powder for skiing and snowboarding. However, in the summer months, Mount Baker unveils itself in all its beauty, as an incredible place for hiking.
Hikes in this region are dominated by two iconic peaks, Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, both surrounded by pristine trails. Hiking in Mount Baker is a dream come true for all adventurers, with mountainside trails clad in lush forest and delicate wildflowers, glittering lakes that reflect the high peaks in their peaceful waters, and epic, creaking glaciers. Come in summer for the fabulous display of flowers and blueberries and the chance to hear the whistling marmots, or wait until the autumn, when the forests are ignited in a blaze of orange and red as the leaves turn.
The beautiful Mount Baker region is just waiting to be discovered, and is a spectacular destination for some truly epic hikes. What are you waiting for? Pull on your hiking boots and get out on the trail!
What to know about hiking in Mt Baker region in 2024
In 2024, the Mt. Baker region has seen upgrades to several trails to enhance the hiking experience. Compared to previous years, the hiking conditions in the Mt. Baker region are expected to remain excellent, with the best times for hiking spanning from late June to mid-October. This period typically offers the most accessible trail conditions, vibrant wildflower blooms in the summer, and spectacular fall colors later in the season. Hikers are encouraged to check current trail conditions before heading out, especially due to the variable weather and potential for early or late snowfalls which can affect trail accessibility.
10 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 you’re 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 you’re 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.
- Artist Ridge Hike: Get your cameras ready! This sweet, short hike will bring you to a fabulous viewpoint where you can see Mount Shuksan reflected in the waters of a peaceful mountain tarn. The path is paved almost all the way to the end, making this a very easy trail for those travelling with young children or people with limited mobility. Try to arrive for sunset when the mountains glow a deep red.
- Picture Lake Hike: The easy walk to Picture Lake is the ultimate family hike in Mount Baker. The paved loop around this picturesque lake is ideal if you’ve got a stroller or wheelchair, and you can enjoy the lovely view of Mount Shuksan reflected in the shimmering water. In the summer months, the trail will be lined with wild heather, blueberries and fireweed, making this one of the loveliest hikes in Mount Baker.
- Lake Ann Hike: If you’re looking for a relaxed day hike in Mount Baker, why not try this lovely route up to Lake Ann? You’ll pass through lush wildflower meadows and over rocky terrain, before emerging at the saddle just above Lake Ann. The views from here are remarkable, extending all the way to Mount Baker, Table Mountain, and Mount Shuksan.
- Ptarmigan Ridge Hike: Calling all adventurers! This hike along Ptarmigan Ridge is not for the faint of heart, but it’s one of the most breathtaking, challenging hikes in Mount Baker. With steep, rocky slopes, some steep ascents, and some route finding required, you’ll need to be a confident, fit hiker. However, the rewards are simply remarkable, with close-up views of Mount Baker itself.
- Chain Lakes Loop Hike: This classic hike in the Mount Baker region is perfect in summertime, when you’ll find the trail full of wildflowers and blueberries. With gorgeous mountain views, several stunning lakes, and wide alpine meadows, you’ll have everything you need for a wonderful day out. This is one of the best hikes in Mount Baker, and one of our favorite moderate-level treks.
- Skyline Divide Hike: This spectacular trail will take you along a rolling ridgeline with glorious views of Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker. With fantastic displays of wildflowers in the summer months, and plenty of whistling marmots scampering over the rocks, this is Washington State at its very best. This hike can be easily extended for a fun backpacking trip in some truly gorgeous scenery.
- Yellow Aster Butte: This spectacular trail really has it all – stunning wildflowers, jaw-dropping views, peaceful mountain tarns and a 360-degree panorama at the summit. You’ll need to be fit, as this trail is somewhat challenging, but this is a really satisfying hike. Time your trip for autumn, when the forests explode in a glorious spectacle of color, and the trail is at its best.
- Heliotrope Ridge: The Heliotrope Ridge Trail rises up through the forest and over a couple of creeks, before rising above the tree line for some stunning views. The hike extends all the way up to the glacial moraine at the lower Coleman Icefall, part of the larger Coleman Glacier. Towering above it all, you’ll see Mount Baker, creating a stunning vista that’s a dream for budding photographers.
- Hannegan Pass and Peak Hike: This is a tough hike with a remarkable reward: an incredible panoramic view over the North Cascades, including Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, and Mount Ruth. The trail is incredibly varied, passing in and out of the forest, traversing mountain streams and opening up into wildflower meadows. With jaw-dropping views and a satisfying physical challenge, this is one of the best hikes in Mount Baker.
- Table Mountain Hike: This hike to the summit of Table Mountain may be steep, but it’s mercifully short, and the rewards from the top are truly epic. You’ll have a 360-degree panorama over the region, with really wonderful views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. You’ll need a head for heights, but this is one of our favorite hikes in Mount Baker.
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 you’re 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.
Other Outdoor Activities In Mount Baker
Mount Baker is probably best known as a fantastic winter sports destination, and when the snows hit, it’s 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!
How To Plan A Trip To Mount Baker
If this has given you itchy feet, it’s time to put Mount Baker on your hiking bucket list! We’ve got all the information you’ll need to plan your trip to Mount Baker, from advice on accommodation to top tips on the best trails and activities in all seasons. We’ve done all the hard work so you don’t have to – just grab your gear and get out on the trail!
Displaying 31 of 31 routes
Route guides for Hiking in Mount Baker
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Chain Lakes Loop Route Guide
Chain Lakes Loop is a classic and beautiful summertime hike near Mount Baker. This alpine circuit offers massive mountain and lake views, summer wildflowers, and blueberries to boot.
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Skyline Divide Route Guide
Skyline Divide is a rolling ridgeline hike that offers breathtaking panoramic views from Shuksan to Baker. Listen out for the whistling marmots, and be prepared for one of the best seasonal wildflower shows around. This is such a great way to spend a sunny summer day with friends. Read the full guide to Skyline Divide.
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Ptarmigan Ridge Route Guide
The wildest trail accessible from Artist Point, Ptarmigan Ridge is a hike for solitude-seekers. In addition to wildflowers, berries, and wildlife-spotting potential, this climbing route offers fantastic close-up views of Mount Baker.
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Yellow Aster Butte Trail Route Guide
The Yellow Aster Butte trail has summer wildflowers, fall colors, twinkling tarns and 360-degree mountain views. All that adds up to Yellow Aster Butte being an undeniably spectacular trail in the Mount Baker wilderness in the North Cascades region of Washington.
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Heliotrope Ridge Route Guide
This popular hike up Heliotrope Ridge crosses several creeks before reaching a spectacular overlook of Coleman Glacier. Along the way, hikers share the path with mountaineers attempting to summit Mount Baker.
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Lake Ann Route Guide
The hike to Lake Ann takes you through wildflower meadows and talus slopes to Lake Ann for close-up views of Mount Shuksan’s thunderous glaciers. This is a longer hike that always leaves us tired, but also relaxed. Thankfully, the elevation isn’t too brutal.
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Hannegan Pass and Peak Route Guide
Prepare for panoramic views aplenty when you hike up Hannegan Pass and Hannegan Peak. This 6817ft, North Cascades vantage point showing off mounts Ruth, Shuksan, Baker, and many more. This is a tough hike, but it’s well worth it.
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Artist Ridge Route Guide
The Artist Ridge hike boasts a huge payout for relatively little effort. This 1.2mi lollipop hike is an extremely popular summer photo destination. Everyone loves the views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker, and beyond.
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Table Mountain Route Guide
The short, steep hike to Table Mountain’s summit rewards trekkers with 360-degree mountain views, from the towering Mount Shuksan to the glacier-clad Mount Baker. This trail is a bit exposed at times, so not good for those with a fear of heights.
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Picture Lake Trail Route Guide
The 0.5mi paved Picture Lake loop hike is exactly that: a picture-perfect trail for strollers and wheelchairs. Aptly-named Picture Lake, this trail is popular for photo-ops due to its easy access and incredible views of Mount Shuksan reflected back into the crystal clear waters.
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Heather Meadows and Artist Point Hike Route Guide
Hiking Heather Meadows and Artist Point makes for a lovely quick trip in the Mount Baker Wilderness. This hike is 2.9mi long and rated as easy, making it a good pick for beginner hikers, families, or those seeking a more laid-back experience. You’ll earn great views of Mount Herman, Mazama Dome, Table Mountain, and the numerous lakes that dot the area. Since this hike starts and ends near the Austin Pass Picnic Area in Heather Meadows, you can extend your adventure to include some picnicking and relaxing.
This trail isn’t very well marked. We recommend downloading the GPS track, but even then, you’ll potentially need to exercise some routefinding abilities depending on when you visit, if there’s snow, and how busy it is. Try to look for a trail, even if it’s faint, to minimize damage to the surrounding foliage. Expect a few short steep sections.
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Baker Lake Trail Route Guide
Baker Lake Trail is a 14.0mi point-to-point hike that can be used for day trips or multi-day adventures. This trail is dotted with campsites as it stretches along the southern shore of Baker Lake, but despite the number of adventurers it attracts, it still feels very peaceful and quiet.
This trail has two access points, one at the southern end of the lake and one at the northern end of the lake. You can hike as far as you like on this route before turning back if you intend to use it for day trips, and the lack of junctions and straightforward nature of the trail make navigation a breeze. The trail also enjoys a relatively low elevation, making it hikeable when other routes are covered in snow.
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Sauk Mountain Hike Route Guide
Sauk Mountain is a 3.8mi out and back hike that features impressive views over Mount Baker National Forest. From the top of the 5357ft mountain, you can look out over the Sauk and Skagit river valleys, the Cascades, the Olympics, and as far as the San Juan Islands on clear days. This route is also known for its wildflowers in the spring, which are plentiful. The southern exposure on this trail means it’s usually less snowy than others in the area during shoulder season, making it a good spring or fall pick.
The route is moderate with lots to look at as you go. Expect some steep switchbacks and areas affected by erosion. The road to the trailhead also has its challenges, and some vehicles may not be able to make it all the way there. Most users report having to stop about a third of a mile from the trailhead, so you may need to park along the side of the road and walk if you have a lower clearance vehicle.
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Big Four Ice Caves Hike Route Guide
The Big Four Ice Caves are a popular spot, and the hike to get there is quite easy. The caves in the receding snow are formed by water and melt, causing tunnels under the snow to appear. The caves are very cool to explore, but we must stress the importance of not going inside of them and not climbing on top of them. Multiple people, including children, have been killed at this site. The snow is unstable and can collapse on top of you or underneath you. It’s incredibly important that children and adults alike enjoy the caves from outside and off the snow.
The route to reach the caves is fairly easy, with only moderate elevation gain required. En route to the caves, you’ll be treated to views of mountains and waterfalls. Wildflowers grow alongside the trails in the spring. It’s quite a charming area and this hike is definitely worth adding to your list.
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Baker Hot Springs Hike Route Guide
The Baker Hot Springs is an awesome spring tucked into the trees in Mount Baker National Forest. As far as natural hot springs go, this one is quite nice, and the water sits at a pleasant temperature. The hot springs don’t get very busy, especially if you go in the evening or during the week.
The trail to the springs is very short and quite easy. At only 0.6mi long, it’s a trip that can be done in just a few minutes, making access to the springs a breeze. There aren’t any big views on the trail, but you’ll get to enjoy the forest as you go.
These hot springs are uncontrolled and unrestricted. Some bathers choose to go nude. While this isn’t exceptionally common, keep it in mind if you plan to bring the whole family.
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Park Butte Lookout Trail Route Guide
The Park Butte Lookout Trail is a beautiful trail that leads to a historic fire lookout. You’ll have unobstructed views of Mount Baker and the Twin Sisters from this perch. Not only that, but the route there is flanked by waterfalls and wildflower meadows. It’s a hike that captures the beauty of Washington State and the Cascades.
This route is moderately difficult. The distance and elevation gain are both manageable for most stronger beginners. Younger children may struggle a bit, but active families should be able to make it to the top. Lots of campers come to Park Butte to stay the night. While you can camp in the lookout, it’s first come, first served.
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Monte Cristo Trail Route Guide
The Monte Cristo Trail is an easy 8.5mi out and back hike that takes you to a spooky ghost town left from the mining boom days of Washington. This hike is mostly flat, quite scenic, and fun for kids with its relics from the past. A hundred years ago, this area was bustling and full of work. Now, it’s slowly being reclaimed by nature.
The hike itself is suitable for all skill levels. While it’s a bit longer, the relative flatness of the trail makes it an easy trip. It’s passable through most of the year before the snow starts to take over.
Note that the road to this trailhead is subject to seasonal closure. Check the conditions and the status of the road if you plan to visit in the wintertime. Additionally, bring enough water for the trail. Refilling isn’t recommended in the water sources here due to the risk of leftover materials from the mine. If you must drink the water here, make sure you filter it first.
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Nooksack Falls Trail Route Guide
Nooksack Falls is a twin waterfall just of Forest Road 33 in the Mount Baker Wilderness. The hike to the waterfall viewpoint is hardly a hike at 0.1mi long and with 0ft of elevation gain. Essentially anybody can enjoy the view here. While it might not be worth planning a whole trip around, Nooksack Falls makes for a nice leg stretcher as you drive. Expect heavy traffic on this route.
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Racehorse Falls Trail Route Guide
Racehorse Trail is a quick hike to a pretty waterfall that cascades over several tiers. The hike to the waterfall is extremely quick and easy, so hikers of all ages and skill levels can enjoy this trail. It’s fun to add onto other adventures in the area or use to stretch your legs when driving. Expect light traffic on this route.
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Winchester Mountain Trail Route Guide
Winchester Mountain Trail is a 2.9mi out and back hike with great views of the Twin Lakes and surrounding mountains. For a scenic hike, it’s not too long or challenging. You’ll climb through continuous switchbacks to a lookout tower, which you can camp in on a first-come, first-served basis. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
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Excelsior Pass Trail Route Guide
Excelsior Pass Trail is a beautiful hike with 360-degree views from the top. While it’s a bit of a leg-burner, it’s worth the work. This trail can easily be extended a few more steps to include the summit of Excelsior Peak, but the views from the pass will feel quite rewarding on their own. Bring poles and prepare for a lot of switchbacks! Expect moderate-heavy traffic on this hike.
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Blue Lake and Dock Butte Trail Route Guide
Blue Lake and Dock Butte Trail is a 4.8mi trail in the Mount Baker Wilderness that leads you past a swimmable lake to a butte with a view over the surrounding landscape. This trail is a favourite in the late summer when huckleberries and blueberries take over the route. Expect moderate traffic on this hike. We don’t recommend trying this route in the wintertime due to heavy snow on the trail.
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Ridley Creek Trail Route Guide
Ridley Creek Trail is a 7.7mi out and back hike in the Mount Baker Wilderness. This trail is challenging for a few reasons, but it’s a fabulous adventure for strong hikers. You’ll need to work hard on steep ascents, make unstable creek crossings, and find your way over downed trees. The reward is that you’ll often get the views all to yourself.
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North Fork Nooksack Trail Route Guide
The North Fork Nooksack Trail is a 2.3mi hike that takes you along its namesake river along an easy, flat pathway. This is a nice way to explore the area if you’re using the nearby Shuksan Picnic Area. This hike is great for all ages and skill levels and can also be used for snowshoeing in the wintertime.
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Huntoon Point via Artist Point Trail Route Guide
The trip to Huntoon Point via Artists Point Trail in the Mount Baker Wilderness. This hike is 1.1mi long and rated as easy, making it a good pick for beginner hikers, families, or those seeking a more laid-back experience. You’ll have great views of Mount Herman, Mazama Dome, Table Mountain, and the numerous lakes that dot the area. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
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Shannon Ridge Trail Route Guide
Shannon Ridge Trail is a fun, challenging hike that leads you through the forest to a viewpoint over Baker Lake and the surrounding Mountains. It’s a fun but tiring trek, with lots of roots to avoid and a solid climb required. You won’t need to share the trail with too many other people on this hike! Poles and good boots are recommended.
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Welcome Pass via High Divide Trail Route Guide
The hike to Welcome Pass from Damfino Lakes takes you through Excelsior Pass for excellent views of the surrounding mountains and lakes too numerous to count. This 14.0mi hike is rated as hard, with a solid dose of elevation gain and a hefty amount of mileage. It’s very doable in a day for strong hikers, but it can also be used for backpacking if you’d prefer to split it up over a couple of days.
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Rainbow Ridge Hike Route Guide
The Rainbow Ridge hike is a gorgeous 5.0mi adventure in the North Cascades that takes you along a ridge with great views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, Canada, and beyond. In terms of difficulty, this hike sits on the harder end of moderate, making it an ideal trip for strong beginners and intermediate hikers. You’ll need a fairly capable vehicle to get to the trailhead.
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Welcome Pass Hike Route Guide
The hike to Welcome Pass on High Divide Trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes too numerous to count. This hike is rated as hard, with a solid dose of elevation gain to pack in over its moderate mileage. This is the most direct way to reach Welcome Pass. Those who want to tack on a stop by Excelsior Pass on a longer approach can try the Welcome Pass via High Divide Trail.
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Racehorse Falls Loop Route Guide
The Racehorse Trail Loop is an easy hike to a pretty waterfall that cascades over several tiers. The hike to the waterfall is not very challenging at all, so hikers of all ages and skill levels can enjoy this trail. It’s fun to add onto other adventures in the area or use to stretch your legs when driving. While this route can be done as an out and back, the loop gives you a bit more room to explore. Expect light traffic on this route.
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Twin Lakes Trail Route Guide
Twin Lakes Trail is a 14.7mi hike in the Mount Baker Wilderness that leads you to two picturesque lakes tucked into the mountains. This is a challenging hike with plenty of climbing required, and the trail can be rocky. If you can persevere, you’ll enjoy a very quiet hike that ends with awesome views. Expect light traffic on this route.
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