Hike the Mount Baker Wilderness Ptarmigan Ridge Trail for extraordinary views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan as they dominate the landscape of the surrounding snow capped Cascade range.
Chris & Mac
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Length: 8-9 Miles Round Trip
Trailhead: Artist Point
Elevation Gain: 1,560’
Trail Type: Out and Back
Dogs: Allowed
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Permit Required? Yes – $5 Day Use Fee or Recreation Pass
Considerations: Snow/Elevation
Season: July – October
Overview
Hike the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail in the Mount Baker Wilderness for extraordinary views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan as they dominate the landscape of the surrounding snow capped Cascade range.
Mount Baker Wilderness – Chain Lakes Trail
We visited the Mount Baker Wilderness to hike the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail in early August. Following the Chain Lakes Trail as it departed from the far end of the Artist Point Trailhead parking area, we were joined by a number of fellow hikers. Snow was ringing the parking area and the initial portion of the trail, but this did not deter anyone. The trail has immediate, easy access to impressive views which had this trail bustling with hikers of all ages. Its popularity, however, did not detract from the peacefulness of the scenery. There was plenty of room on the trail for everyone to spread out. We were treated to fantastic views of meadows, wildflowers, and snow nestled on, in, and around rugged peaks.
Ptarmigan Ridge
Leaving the Chain Lakes Trail we picked up the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail and began heading towards Mount Baker. We hiked through quite a bit of snow, but needed no special equipment. Our hiking poles were especially helpful, however, when traversing steeper slippery areas. The views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan were breathtaking as we headed towards Coleman Pinnacle. Stopping about a mile shy of the end of the trail, we found a lovely spot to have a snack and soak in the stunning views before turning around to head back to he Artist Point parking area.
Mount Baker Wilderness – Artist Point Access
The Ptarmigan Ridge Trail is accessed off the Chain Lakes Trail where the Chain Links Trail intersects with the Artist Point parking area. There is plenty of parking at Artist Point, however this is an extremely popular trailhead. We recommend arriving early as it may fill quickly, especially if you are visiting on a weekend.
Please note that this hike is at elevation. For anyone not acclimated to hiking at higher elevations the hike may be more strenuous.
Scroll down to learn about the GEAR WE USE and OTHER OUTVENTURES in this area.
Ptarmigan Ridge Slideshow
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Gear We Use for Day Hiking
To see descriptions of the gear Chris & Mac use for day hiking, as well as links to manufacturers and retailers offering the gear for sale, please CLICK HERE.
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