Climb a little as your path takes you between mossy boulders. Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism 11.6km 610m 4-5h A wonderful trail for getting outdoors in the midst of winter (without snowshoes or skis), the Baker Lake Trail makes a marvelous wilderness escape any time of year. Like a hiker on Mount Si, The Seattle Times keeps on pushing when it comes to covering old-favorite hikes as well as new discoveries. Difficulty There will be a small brown sign for Baker Lake just before the turnoff. Once across, the path heads over an old river channel and crosses Blum creek on the first of many wooden bridges. Shuksan’s rugged profile, and all the other nearby snowcapped peaks are simply awe-inspiring. Skyline Divide is a rolling ridgeline hike that offers … Bordered by North Cascades National Park and the Noisy-Diobsud Wilderness, Baker Lake’s entire eastern shoreline is traced by a 14-mile hiking trail through old-growth forest. Hike to a lake! Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Point. This is a nice sidetrip or turn-around, since it takes you down to the lake. Rock Trail. Access the hike from a 26.5-mile drive down Baker Lake Rd to the Baker Lake Trailhead. The lake, a popular recreation area, lies in the shadow of two of the area’s tallest mountains, Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. From the jagged stump, with your eyes follow the trunk downhill, you can see it broken in several places. and gentle, rolling along the lake to a pretty Mount Baker overlook at Anderson Cross another wooden bridge, and you see the river spreading out. With the leaves off the trees, views that aren't possible in summer emerge; the surrounding peaks and the mossy green silhouettes of the leafless maple trees cover the hillside. On the east side of the lake, things remain mostly wild. 02. The lake has no development on it except for the boat launch area where you first come in. Continue 17 miles east on Highway 20, then turn left onto Baker Lake Road. At 14 miles long, the Baker Lake Trail is excellent for both day hikes and backpacking trips. Hiking Skyline Divide along the Mt. At the first traffic circle, take the 2nd exit to stay on Cook Road. The Pacific Crest trail goes right through the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie Forest. Day hikers Use the map to find Sno-Park locations in specific regions. Lake Crescent; Clallam County. Take the right trail and have fun crossing the suspension bridge. Association trip reports or contact the Mt. Head through a small clearing in the trees, here are salmonberry plants growing, and when the magenta flowers open, you may find yourself nose to beak with a Rufus hummingbird. Baker Lake Trail 610. and drive to a trailhead on left side of road,1.1 miles from the dam. The best views, however, are found if you continue to the Maple Grove Campground at 3.8 miles. Hidden Creek is anything but hidden. Baker Lake Trail is a 18 km green singletrack trail located near Glacier Washington. Masks required. ... 2016 near Diablo, WA. Here, the trail crosses a suspension bridge over the Baker River before meeting the Baker River Trail. Baker. Read more about the Baker You will see more of Baker, both mountain and lake. This location puts you deeper into the Baker River valley. Baker Lake is close by, and several hiking trails and climbing routes are within a short driving distance. Stay in the right lane on the exit ramp and head east on 20. The campsites can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. Phone: 360-671-3990 Give them a hug, and wonder what it will take to knock them over and start a new cycle. Look for spaces in between them, and ponder what small creature would make the caves a winter home. Freelance writer Brandon Fralic has called Bellingham home since 2006. Baker National Recreation Area Baker Lake 9-mile (14 km) long Baker Lake is located on the Baker River about 8 miles north of the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20). Look ahead for a long suspension bridge over the river on your right. Great Lake Hikes: 5 Family Hikes to Mountain Lakes in Western Washington. Virtual Tour of Baker Lake Trail. At 1.8 miles a spur trail on … Just before crossing, there is a very large, recently downed tree. After crossing dam, turn left at a gate onto FS 1107, cross Welker Cr. Turn left (east) onto Cook Road and continue for 4.3 miles. Additionally, a radius of 200 feet surrounding the pump discharge at the south end of the lake is closed to all fishing. This is a wonderful family hike for all seasons with its low elevation and level grade. Straight ahead is the trail up the river; a worthy river wander for another day. There are 3 forest service campgrounds on the lake. USFS Baker Lake / Middle Fork Nooksack in the Mt. Hike by WTA Correspondents: Three U.S. … Panorama Point is small, and very well maintained. Photo by Linda Roe. There is a large parking lot with a vault toilet. In the spring, look for yellow violets and trillium here also. Baker and Mt. Compare that to the old mossy stumps, growing shelf fungus on their sides, the fallen trunks now nurse logs for growing hemlock seedlings. Skyline Divide It's also possible to hike this trail from the southern trailhead. Add a Symbol . Seattle, WA 98104. By Lauren Braden | Published on: August 07, 2020. If the lake levels are low, stumps protrude from the waters at Anderson There are some big trees on this trail. Boulder Ridge Trail Hike — Though this trail is predominately used for climbers looking for an … boulders, this riverside hike is another family favorite. Very small and quiet campground. The Baker Lake Trail’s full 14 miles one-way (28 miles round trip) are best broken up over a long weekend or hiked one-way via car shuttle. Baker Lake is a beautiful lake for fishing, swimming and enjoying the views. Views from … You don’t have to go far to see ‘Big Doug.’ This tree has got to be one of the biggest Douglas firs in the Cascades! Guide to Washington’s hiking trails Whether you like walks in the woods or multiday backpacks, “getting closer to nature” is a core value of many Washingtonians. Both groups of lakes offer spectacular views of surrounding peaks and are notoriously buggy in summer. There are approximately 80 Sno-Parks designated primarily for snowmobiling. A good place for lunch, there are picnic tables, fire pits and tent sites, plus a backcountry toilet and a metal bear box. In 23 miles, turn left onto Baker Lake Road. Swift Creek use to be privately owned Baker Lake Resort. From the day use picnic area, you’ll get beautiful panoramic views of Baker Lake; a gravel boat launch is also available so you can explore the lake, instead of just look at it. Subalpine lakes, heather meadows, and picturesque views of Mt. This trail leads into a majestic stand of Douglas fir that regrew after Mt. It can also be accessed at the north via Baker River Trail 606. Drive through Sedro Woolley and from there continue on Highway 20 for 14.5 miles where you turn left (north) onto the Baker Lake-Grandy Lake road. And with less than 2,00 feet in elevation gain, you won’t have to huff and puff too hard to earn it. 14 map, Buy the Green Trails Lake Shannon No. WTA Pro Tip: This trail continues all the way along the east side of the lake, 14.5 miles one way. These trails are held near and dear to many in Whatcom County. Sign up to receive Bellingham Whatcom County events & information! Stay on 20 as it winds through Burlington and Sedro-Woolley. Shuksan rising in the distance are all within the 6.5 mile loop. North Cascades -- North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20, Mt. 3 h 42 m. #3 - Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail. You will find directions to snowmobile Sno-Parks and trail reports updated regularly during the winter season. Backpackers flock here in the summertime, but Maple Grove is relatively quiet during the rest of the year. Baker Ranger District office for current Vault toilet, no drinkable water. With a name like “Panorama Point,” you’d expect this campground to have a pretty awesome view—and it doesn’t disappoint. where the trail ends with a view of Mount Shuksan. Come to a wide, unbridged stream, it is shallow and easily crossed on a few well placed rocks. Sitting on the eastern shore of Baker Lake, this sweet little spot has six tent campsites. Best lake trails in Washington. His first book, Beer Hiking Pacific Northwest, was released in 2018. Lake and Baker River trails year-round. This family-friendly section of trail is short Multiple backcountry campsites and little elevation gain make this a popular trail for backpackers, too. This is a modest eight mile hike with 1700′ of elevation gain. Continue north on Baker River Trail to Sulphide Creek Camp, Shuksan No. The road is paved until the last 6 miles. Located near the Anderson Creek Sno-Park, the route parallels Baker Lake, staying high on the slope and within the trees. Several campsites are also located right on the shoreline of the lake. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Mount Baker Ranger District, Day Hiking: North Cascades (Romano - Mountaineers Books), Buy the Green Trails Mt. The Grove of Patriarch's Loop is one of the easiest, most enchanting trails you can take in Mount Rainier National Park. Panorama Point campground has 16 campsites and is located on the western shore of Baker Lake in the beautiful Mt. This hike along Baker Lake is a busy, popular trail in summer. Check out the trail conditions at the Mt. The trail is a 14.5 mile through-hike, but the first 4.5 miles out make for a lovely day hike. A bonus any time of year are the many creeks, quaint bridges, large old-growth trees and of course, Mount Baker as the main attraction. Baker highway and hiking trails. The left fork heads up alongside Noisy Creek and the right fork leads to Noisy Creek campground. Point beach. May 12, 2019 near Diablo, WA. north end of Baker Lake. Once lunch is eaten, take the trail up Noisy Creek. Photo: Bagley Lakes at Mount Baker. He writes about the outdoors, travel, and craft beer for a variety of regional publications. Visitor Center Located at I-5 Exit 253 Baker Highway in northwest Washington State have got to be some of the most spectacular in the Continental US. Baker Lake is closed to the taking of bull trout/Dolly Varden. impressive suspension bridge spans the Baker River and meets the northern end In a half mile the trail splits. We started by driving back to the Heather Meadows visitor center, not far from the Lake Ann trailhead we had used the previous day. 2 h 19 m. #2 - Snow Lake Trail. making Anderson Point an easy getaway for first-time backpackers. Take exit 230, signed for Hwy 20 Burlington/Anacortes. This glorious national park is packed with lush forests, gushing waterfalls, pretty lakes and streams and beautiful mountain scenery. The hike starts alongside the Baker River on a wide dirt path. The easiest way to access Baker Lake Trail is Recreation The surrounding area is a prime location for hiking, climbing, boating, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, and snowmobiling in the winter months. The next camping area is at Noisy Creek Campground, 5.5 miles northeast of Maple Grove. Next Generation Hiking Trail Maps. River Trail at the Washington Trails Association website. Mount baker highway to artist point is a 114.3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near bellingham, washington that features a river and is rated as moderate. Lake Crescent is a stunning lake that is nestled in the foothills of … It is a nice off season walk though, and is perfect on a crisp, clear winter day. Most day hikers trek to one of two destinations; Anderson Point and Maple Grove. Baker Ranger District open for stock and llama use year round. Washington State regulations govern Happy hiking! 46 map. Backpackers, joggers, and long-distance hikers may wish to continue north on the Baker Lake Trail from Maple Grove. Drive 2.4 miles, crossing over the single-lane Baker Dam (watch for oncoming vehicles). ... Mount Baker Artist Point. Turn around when you are ready to head back to your car, or continue along the main trail as far as you are able to go in a day. Whether you want to get your glacier fix, enjoy volcano views from a historic fire lookout, or hike a non-repeating scenic loop, there’s a trail for every intrepid hiker at the Park Butte Trailhead. At 14 miles long, the Baker Lake Trail is excellent for both day hikes and backpacking trips. It puts you right beside Lake Shannon and right below Baker Lake, Its closer to hikes like Park Butte, leaving more time in the mountains. Baker Lake Road is paved Baker National Recreation Area (NRA) is an impressive mountain landscape on the southeast flanks of Mt. Most day hikers trek to one of two destinations; Anderson Point and Maple Grove. Email: tourism@bellingham.org. The Baker Lake trail continues straight ahead and crosses Noisy Creek. Baker Highway The hikes that begin from the Mt. It may be tempting here to make your way down to the shore for lunch. Kid-friendly hikes for swimming, berry-picking and trail exploring. Hiker Headlines: Highway Closures, Avalanche Info, Outdoor Economy, Firefighters Wanted, Wanapum Planning. There’s something about Mt. ... Jun 15, 2020 near Diablo, WA. Located near the Anderson Creek Sno-Park, the route parallels Baker Lake, staying high on the slope and within the trees. If your a rowdy group you might be told to leave. At the second traffic circle, take the 2nd exit for WA-20 East. After 14 miles, turn right onto Baker Dam Road (NF-1112). Mt. Create Recommended Route or Trail . Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest or at the Mt. This cool, shady grove provides another good turnaround point for day hikers who can snag a picnic table for their lunch break. There are many trails to explore in the Baker Lake area, car camp at one of the campgrounds along the Baker Lake road and explore them all.It's also possible to hike this trail from the southern trailhead. Drive 14 miles to the Baker Dam Road and turn right. Baker Lake offers miles of low-elevation trails for year-round enjoyment. food storage) to overnight campers. Linda Roe. Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest moderate (3520) Length: 6.4 mi • Est. Fall Foliage Walks in Bellingham and Whatcom County, Day Hiking in Bellingham and Whatcom County. Watson Lakes Trailhead. Baker Lake Trail is a 13.9 mile heavily trafficked point-to-point trail located near Concrete, Washington that features a lake and is rated as moderate. Baker and Baker, Mountain and Lake. Look instead as you hike along the trail, at the beautiful woods, with the green moss hanging off the maple trees and the old man’s beard hanging from the fir and hemlock. WTA’s Commitment to Stand Against Racism. conditions. After crossing the dam, the road turns from pavement to gravel. Featuring towering cedars and big granite Several campsites in this area offer fire pits and bear boxes (for This 1.9 km lollipop hike is an extremely popular summer photo destination. In spring, wildflowers bloom alongside the trail. The best of these is Baker Lake Trail, an easygoing lakeshore ramble through old-growth forest. Snow In spring, wildflowers bloom alongside the trail.At 1.8 miles a spur trail on your left leads to the Anderson Point Campground. View the gorgeous scenery at your own pace. At 0.5 miles, an These trails are especially peaceful Actually Baker Lake is a reservoir, made when the river was dammed, not the prettiest of lakes when the water is drawn down. From Bellingham, take I-5 south to exit 232 for Cook Road. You can improve or add to this guidebook entry, Washington Trails Association Very nice, lots of options for boating and fishing. The child in all of us should get a little thrill as the bridge bounces with our steps! Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. If you can arrange transportation, try a hike through. If in the area, be sure to checkout Birdsview Brewing on Highway-20, just west of the Baker Lake Road near Concrete. Amenities here include an outhouse and dock in addition to campsites with picnic tables, fire pits, and bear boxes. Hours: Due to COVID-19, the Visitor Center is open limited hours: Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10am-3pm. miles from Highway 20 to the road-end parking lot. Mt. Contributions to WTA are tax deductible, and we are committed to making the best use of every donation to our mission. may be a consideration during winter — check the latest Washington Trails can enjoy the lake and mountain views before returning to the car or extending Soon the trail enters North Cascades National Park Pack out everything you pack in, and pick up any trash you find while you’re out enjoying these beautiful areas. via the South Baker Lake Trailhead. At 14 miles long, Baker Lake Trail is more than just a day hiking destination. Baker Lake (Photo:) Located six miles northeast of Concrete, 3,316-acre Baker Lake is often visited for fishing, camping, hiking and boating. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking. The lake basin offers opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking and pack & saddle trips. Washington Trails Association is 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Brandon co-founded Beers at the Bottom in 2013 to highlight Pacific Northwest trails and ales. 904 Potter Street, Bellingham, WA 98229. The best of these is Baker Lake Trail, an easygoing lakeshore ramble through old-growth forest. (dogs prohibited). For Friday, we selected another hike in the Artist Point area: the Chain Lakes Loop. from fall through spring when the lake is still and the woods are silent. It is a noisy and wide creek, the white water splashing among the mossy rocks and fallen branches. 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 ... the hike begins near the rope tows that turn this national park viewpoint into a mini ski area in winter. Baker Hiking Club’s site. Credit: Nordique via Flickr CC. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. From Noisy Creek, the trail continues northeast to its northern terminus, 14 miles from the trailhead. #1 - Lake 22 Trail. Baker Lake Trail is also accessible from the 10 Best Snowshoe Hikes in Western Washington Trails look a little different in winter, but with the right footwear there's no reason to stay inside. Baker hosts multiple hiking trails, from easy stretches to “experienced only” trekking. Ponder for a minute, the power of nature that brought such a giant down. This hike primary trail can be used both directions. Hikers and backpackers can enjoy the Baker Hold off, a better spot awaits you on the other side of the small peninsula you can now see. Come to a signed intersection at 4.2 miles. Enjoy the little streams and more wooden bridges. This short, family-friendly path heads along a boardwalk through some of the oldest forest in Washington, and over a bouncy suspension bridge to a grove of towering old trees. You will recognize it by the huge gnarled old trunk. Remember the newly downed tree seen earlier? Here’s the rundown on each hike. When it comes to day hikes, the Chain Lakes Loop is the whole package. You'll find the Maple Grove campground about 4 miles from the southern trailhead. Baker’s cone, Mt. Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest moderate (3591) Length: 5.7 mi • Est. During summertime, campers, boaters, and fishermen flock to the 9-mile lake’s west shore campgrounds, creating a buzzing recreation hub in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Baker erupted and started a forest fire in 1843. Taking of bull trout/Dolly Varden our free email newsletter for hiking events, news gear... Be kept on leash trails Association website elevation and level grade broken several! 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