Heather Meadows  | Whatcom County |  |
|
||
 Get All This In A Single Book! |
||
|
Guides |
|
|
Address http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs The end of Mount Baker Highway (542) Glacier, WA 98244 856-5700; 599 |
|
|
|
Take State Highway 542 (Sunset Drive in Bellingham) to road’s end at upper Mount Baker Ski Lodge.
Description:
If you have only one day to spend in the North Cascades, Heather Meadows is your best choice. Year-round accessibility combined with a stunning alpine setting make this location truly unique. While winter skiers and snowboarders can choose between the Mount Baker Ski Area and backcountry touring, it is really the summertime when the uniqueness of this area becomes so evident. Snowfall that can reach world record depths allows traditional winter snow sports to continue through the summer. It is not uncommon to see hikers, skiers, photographers, sightseers, and picnickers all using the same trailhead.
In years when the winter snowfalls have not been too dramatic, the short road to Artist Point is open. From your car you can step out and enjoy the perspective from a setting that is over 5,000 feet above sea level. Trails with names like "Fire and Ice" and "Ptarmigan Ridge" hint at what they have to offer. Travel through flowered meadows, past abandoned gold mines, up ridges and over mountains that are made of everything from volcanic debris to ancient sea floor. The hiking varies from interpretive nature walks to the dizzying Table Mountain trail. The image of Mt. Shuksan reflected in the appropriately named Picture Lake is one of the most photographed mountain views in the world. When you see the striking contrast of black rock, white snow, and vivid icy blue glacier you’ll understand why.
This is also the location for the beginning of the now world famous Ski to Sea Race in May. Witness the mass start of the cross-country ski segment followed by the climb and descent of the alpine skiers, and the handoff to the runners who continue down the mountain. You’ll have to get up early though, before the road closes on the morning of the race.
For parking at any time other than winter, a day or annual parking (trailhead) pass is currently required. These can be purchased from local stores or the Glacier Ranger Station during summer months. Whatever your interest and energy level you’ll find a good day in the mountains with a visit to Heather Meadows.
Written By: Bud Hardwick
Features
Kid Friendly
|
Picnic Area
|
Walking Trails
|
Bathrooms
|
Picnic Tables
Comments
Note that the photo above was taken from Glacier Creek Road 38 (turnoff is about 1 mile east of Glacier), at or near the "Mt Baker Vista." You won't see this view of Mt Baker from Heather Meadows.
- Tanya Kitterman on Sat, January 25, 2003
Add Your Comments
Please Enter ONLY Comments. DO NOT ENTER Questions or requests for information. They will NOT be answered and will be deleted. You need to contact the establishments directly for answers to your questions.
Map
In This Category
|
See something you like? Something you don't like? Send us your feedback. Let us know what you want to see on Whatcom County, it's your web site! Email us at webmaster@kulshan.com
Copyright 1999-2006 Berry International ALL RIGHTS RESERVED