Baker which is only 11 miles south. Horseshoe Bend Trail is an easy forest hike along the Mt. We will need at least two cars going up, one will get left at the slightly lower Excelsior pass trailhead on the Keep going and will a little effort you are at the pass and crossing the High Divide trail. Post Comment. Welcome Pass will connect you to High Divide Trail, ridge run with amazing views, which you will follow all the way to the top of Excelsior Peak. Trip Information. It is also the only trail with the trailhead on the Mount Baker … In 4 miles the trail breaks out above timberline and into heavy brush. The trail starts with a series of switchbacks climbing steadily up a timbered slope, with evidence of old forest fires visible for the first 2.0 miles. No fires are allowed. Such a brutal uphill climb with fantastic views. This trail is a staircase of switchbacks that march ever upward through thick forest to deliver hikers to an iconic ridge walk in the North Cascades. The hike to the top is a steady climb. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. Directions from Glacier: Travel east on Mt. The Wandering Naturalist Episodes 72–74: At-Risk and Vulnerable Species. Free printable topographic map of Excelsior Pass (aka Excelsior Mountain and Excelsior Point) in Whatcom County, WA including photos, elevation & GPS coordinates. The trail starts in an old clearcut, quickly entering mature forest. 542 for approximately 7 miles. It took me around 2.5 hours to get to the peak and I stopped a lot to catch my breath. We ended up coming back to the trail with no problems, but we took an unfortunate detour. The trail begins in old-growth forest, thick enough to provide shade but thin enough to allow filtered sunlight in. Excelsior Pass & High Divide Trail. fullscreen. Washington, Excelsior Pass Trail State: Washington Location: Mt. The views were worth the effort. First of all, there is nothing higher between Excelsior Peak and Mt. I got disoriented and ended up going down the back side of the mountain. Regardless which trail you may chose, the views are amazing. In 0.7 miles a junction is encountered. The trail to Excelsior Pass and Excelsior Peak is a beautiful ascent from the wet rainforest floor up into the breathtaking alpine of the North Cascades. 630, (1,800 ft). Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. Seattle, WA 98104. Not as nearly as spectacular as any of the other Mount Baker trails, but it makes a nice outing. 13 map. 0 Comments. View was gorgeous. This trail is located in the Mt. The High Divide trail east from Excelsior Peak trail and connects to the Welcome Pass trail. A good day, but no views due to the clouds. Mostly in the trees. Would def do it again! 35°26'44.48"N 115°40'33.04"W. Most people enjoy a scenic trail, but I mostly see the trail as something I have to endure to get to the main attraction which is the mine. Forecast again called for clouds and 20% chance of rain. This time I only had a 10 mile drive on Route 542 to Excelsior … The road is longer but the hike is shorter and has less elevation gain than the route from either end of the High Divide Trail. The campground sits in a secluded area on the North Fork Nooksack River banks. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Length, One-Way: 4.5 miles Trail Type: Out and Back Minimum Elevation: 1800 feet Elevation National Forest Trail Washington Cleopatra Foxes Backyard Patio Bugs are manageable without a bug spray. … Trails System Excelsior Springs Parks and Recreation 112 South Thompson Ave, Excelsior Springs 816-630-1040 www.esparks.org Rainbow Trail 1.85 Miles Rainbow Trail The Rainbow Trail (formerly known as HWY 69 Trail) runs along HWY 69/Rainbow Blvd on the west side of Excelsior Springs. All in all - was an excellent hike! Hiked the trail yesterday Nov. 6. Return or hiker as far along the ridge as you wish before returning. I was hiking alone with an eight year old. Turn right (west) on the East High Divide Trail and hike 0.3 mile to Excelsior's Peak's summit. Even though it's a bit strenuous hike to reach the pass, this hike is worth the effort for the spectacular views and landscape as a reward. North Cascades by Mike McQuaide book. There are two separate group campgrounds here, one for up to … The Excelsior Pass trail had ideal snow conditions - a party yesterday had packed down a snowshoe trail and then half a foot of new snow had fallen overnight. The Three Rivers Blog The Bear That … The first mile the trail was all good but then it turned into a creek and there is no getting round to it we have to walk on water. #45 in in Day Hike! Sunday morning day hike to Excelsior Peak in the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest with a friend. First of all, there is nothing higher between Excelsior Peak and Mt. Did not use poles. Bunch of people were camping at the pass. To Welcome Pass from Glacier: Travel east on Mt. CHS 2 Hike - Excelsior Peak. Each campground has a fire pit, picnic shelters and tables, and is open from May to … Only wish it wasn’t literally in the trees the entire hike til the top. Baker Highway 542 in 4.5 miles. The longest trail goes up through Welcome Pass and then is a view-filled ridgewalk. Get Excelsior Pass Trail, Whatcom County, WA photos and images from Picfair. Welcome Pass, Excelsior Peak, and Damfino Lakes from Forest Service Road 3060 via High Divide Trail, Welcome Pass from Damfino Lakes via High Divide Trail, Excelsior Pass to Welcome Pass via High Divide Trail. There is an avalanche region when you get out of the tree line and approach the Pass area. Excelsior Pass Trail is a 13.5 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Maple Falls, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. Baker Highway 542 for approximately 11.0 miles to Forest Road 3060, located between mileposts 45 and 46. It’s also all uphill switchbacks until you reach the peak which is a little intense when you’re pregnant. ~2:20 up, 2:00 or so down. Home; Washington; Whatcom County; Gaps; Excelsior Pass; Excelsior Pass Gap. Views at the top and in the meadow were totally worth the effort to get up there. Either way, Excelsior Ridge delivers an incredible ridge walk through wildflowers with Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan seemingly close enough to touch. I reached the Pass around 8.45am and continued on to Damfino. The end of the trail came to horseshoe bend in which there was a rocky beach area. In the open areas it is quite deep and I was sinking almost knee deep even with the snowshoes. There is an avalanche region when you get out of the tree line and approach the Pass area. Hikers and backpackers are especially fortunate to have access to a variety of trails near the campground and in the surrounding areas. The views it provides go all the way into Canada and sweep south to Mount Baker and the North Cascades. Mount Baker Highway 542 Area. Excelsior Ridge (East High Divide Trail) This roughly 10 mile hike with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain starts at the Welcome Pass trailhead. Excelsior Group Campground is located in a forested area, shaded by Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock. From archery ranges to horseback riding trails and more, see what's open, what's closed and what requires a pass in Three Rivers. 100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Add a Photo. Trail through the forest, cave along the trail, waterfall, ripened berries and a blow down. Kids Hikes, ADA Hikes and Take a Drive Stops Excelsior Pass Trail is a 8.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Maple Falls, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. At Excelsior Pass, a signed intersection points to the High Divide Trail, which follows the gentle ups and downs of a subalpine ridge for almost 5 miles to Welcome Pass. The parking area is located on the right hand side of the highway. Baker Wilderness Area #1,180 in Washington #23,717 Overall. Would definitely recommend it. Note: Carry water later in the summer. At Excelsior Pass are the junctions with High Divide Trail #630, which travels along Excelsior Ridge (High Divide) for 4.5 miles to Welcome Pass and the Excelsior Pass Trail #670, which drops to meet the Mt. Sat, Jul 25, 2020, 6:30 AM: This is a longer hike and unique in that it is all one way. 11hr 30min (1hr 17min), 8400 cal (778 difference) This entire evolution, as well as eating and relaxing, took about an hour. Mount Baker Highway 542 Area. The trail gives way to views of waterfalls and, at the time of this writing, fields of blooming wildflowers. Great workout! The Excelsior "trail" leads downward and actually away from the views (we made our … The snow is almost all gone with just some patches at the top. All the trails/routes converge for a finish at the Excelsior Ridge trail head. I thought there would be more hikers out with the weather so nice but I didn’t see a single other soul til I was almost to the top (2:05hrs in). From the parking lot on the side of Mt. On June 22nd, 2018 I did this hike in foggy conditions with quite a bit of snow still on the ground. Discover trails like Excelsior Pass Trail Washington, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and nearby businesses. If you wanted an extended day, you can begin the trail at or follow through to the Barstow Freeway / I-15 just west of Mountain Pass, CA. Excelsior Pass via Nooksack River — Washington Trails … The Excelsior Pass Trail enters the Mt. Fully agree with Ankit's detailed review below. Baker which is only 11 miles south. View is beautiful and summit meets up with other trails. Join Login . In 4.0 miles the trail breaks out above timberline and into heavy brush. Login to Join BCMC Trips . Hiker Headlines: Highway Closures, Avalanche Info, Outdoor Economy, Firefighters Wanted, Wanapum Planning. The trail to Excelsior Pass and Excelsior Peak is a beautiful ascent from the wet rainforest floor up into the breathtaking alpine of the North Cascades. Took 2 hrs 45 mins to reach High Divide with plenty of water and photo breaks on the way. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from June until October. Bing Maps has a collection of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as photos. When I get off trail it can be pretty demoralizing since I feel like I am using … You gain about 3640ft of elevation to the peak … Fresh snow up towards the top which was slushy and frosty, but we were rewarded with powdery snow up top. Damfino Lakes to Excelsior Pass 8 Miles 1,762' 4,180' High Divide Trail via Welcome Pass 12 Miles 4,058' 4,694' Yellow Aster Butte, Tommyhoi Peak, and High Divide 20 Miles 6,418' 8,312' Saturday Day 3: Ptarmigan Ridge Eat, run, … Baker Scenic Byway, highlighting old-growth forests, gushing whitewater rapids and forest wildflowers. Weather wasn’t the best at the top cloudy but it was still a glorious view we did go up to the peak of the mountain and that part was definitely hard, it’s only like half a mile, definitely worth it. Wild flowers in full bloom once you reach the tree line/meadows. Reached the trailhead at 9:30 am and found the parking lot full with space only for trailers. 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 The left fork is Canyon Ridge Trail #689, which also connects to … I didn’t realize pretty much the whole hike is deep in the forest with no views until you hit about mile 4. Contributions to WTA are tax deductible, and we are committed to making the best use of every donation to our mission. Stay to the right so others can pass. The south facing Excelsior Pass trail is one of the first in the area to melt out, making it a good early summer hike. In all, found 1 person on our way up. Weather. From the parking lot on Highway 542, the trail ascends through classic North Cascades forest. Other adults on the trail gave up before the top. Excelsior Pass Trail, WA Maple Falls, WA; Church Mountain Trail, WA Mt. Baker Highway 542 in 4.5 miles. From Glacier: Travel east on Mt. Took 2 hours to get down and met around 5 groups on our way down. Do you enjoy route finding, steep ascents, and spectacular views across the North Cascades? Only concern was the smell of poop and bugs wandering over the poop. Baker Hwy. It is not the most interesting trail but it lets you climb nearly 4,000 feet and when you emerge in the beautiful open meadows below Excelsior Pass the views will be well deserved. The trail went over grassy slopes and dwarfed trees getting pretty steep in places. Sat, Jul 25, 2020, 6:30 AM: This is a longer hike and unique in that it is all one way. Baker Highway 542 for approximately 7.0 miles. THIS IS ACTUALLY "HIGH DIVIDE via DAMFINO LAKES TRAIL" IN NORTH MOUNT BAKER AREA. The view was beautiful. RELATED POSTS. The biggest challenge is avoiding the horse poo. Will be back to camp out for a night next time. We will need at least two cars going up, one will get left at the slightly lower Excelsior pass trailhead on the Overnight trip. Baker Highway the trail begins to climb through thick forest. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The trail starts in an old clearcut, quickly entering mature forest. The Wandering Naturalist Episodes 72–74: At-Risk and Vulnerable Species. Nestled along the North Fork of the Nooksack River where there is no shortage of superb hiking options, this trail stands out for a few reasons. Excelsior Pass Ridge Trail (Primitive) is a 2,303 m black diamond singletrack trail located near Glacier Washington. Excelsior Ridge (East High Divide Trail) From the pass, you can hike out the ridge and back or continue on to complete the Grand Traverse. Bugs were out and buzzing but I never got bit even with no spray on. I’d recommend long pants as some sections were narrow with lots of foliage. Watch for hazards on or near the trail. Pet friendly hike. Search. The longest trail goes up through Welcome Pass and then is a view-filled ridgewalk. Great wild flowers, not great visibility today. Listen in as Brandon and Angela speak with a variety of guests about at-risk and vulnerable wildlife in Minnesota and the Twin Cities. Excelsior Lower to Excelsior Pass. It was a very close call. ?If so...then this trail is probably for you!! A bunch of other trails branch out from Excelsior Pass. Learn More. Ascend 3.9 miles and 3,540 feet of elevation gain to Excelsior Pass (5,380 ft). Definitely bring bug spray, but the bugs didn’t bother me too much. Have fun and be ready for a good workout! Baker National Forest, WA; Damfino Lakes Trail, WA Mt. First, it's the only trail in the region that is open to horses. Welcome Pass, Excelsior Peak, and Damfino Lakes from Forest Service Road 3060 via High Divide Trail is a 20.3 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Maple Falls, Washington that features a lake and is rated as difficult. !Excelsior Pass Trail is a 8.4 mile heavily traffi (For even better 360-degree views, take the obvious spur trail to the east, which climbs 400 feet in .25 mile to the top of Excelsior.) Excelsior Mountain (The Pass) (GPS: N38° 02.485 119° 17.700) At some point we got off trail due to some snow, and that cost us about 30 minutes of extra hiking and some uphill. Baker National Forest, WA; Skyline Divide Trail, WA Mt Baker Ski Area, WA; Cougar Divide, WA Mt. Put on snowshoes here and wore them to the summit. I hung out at the top for about 20 minutes and the clouds came in so I headed down. According to my watch it was 9.2 miles total and took 4hrs 37min. The ups and downs of this ridge hike are not difficult and seldom interfere with the spectacular views that this open ridge has … Lots of wild flowers and amazing views of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan from the High Divide peak. The view of Baker is gorgeous at the top! There is one tricky junction and that is at the signpost at the pass,.. it says Excelsior one way, and High Divide the other,.. to go to Excelsior "peak", you actually want to take the HD (the peak is right there so you can eyeball it and it will make sense. From the trailhead off Mount Baker Highway (SR542), the Excelsior Pass Trail #670 is a little over four miles long and gains 3500 feet in elevation. A privy is available and there is space for six cars to park. This made it a little eery honestly. Great trail! favorite 1 label 0. The trailhead (el. From there it was 0.3 miles and 337 vertical feet to the summit. The hike took us seven hours total but we finished it. Then the challenging snowshoe to Excelsior Pass is for you! Views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan and the Nooksack Valley are just a few of the many peaks and valleys that make up the scenery. Thursday July 4, 2019. Trail passes through dense forests up for the most part. Overnighted so enjoyed incredible night star viewing. Nestled along the North Fork of the Nooksack River where there is no shortage of superb hiking options, this trail stands out for a few reasons. We went up & down it with no issues. Baker Highway. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until November. Excelsior Pass Trailhead Summary. Find high-quality stock photos that you won't find anywhere else. Trail Rankings #9 in Mt. Lowest commission in the industry guaranteed. Washington Trails Association is 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Exceptional weather made for stunning views of Mt. Announce your presence when passing other trail users. 2,200 feet) is about 75 feet back down the road … Powder at summit, but still very slick and icy on the last leg so wear chains if you’ve got them! Even in the depths of winter you're likely to spot pockets of rich greenery across the forest floor. SUPER tough hike but very worth it; trail for back half is a creek bed which is icy. From archery ranges to horseback riding trails and more, see what's open, what's closed and what requires a pass in Three Rivers. After being here it easy to see why. From the pass, you can hike out the ridge and back or continue on to complete the Grand Traverse. Quite brutal with the most difficult part being the steep elevation gain from Excelsior Pass upto High Divide. Drive SR-542 (Mt. 11hr 30min (1hr 17min), 8400 cal (778 difference) This entire evolution, as well as eating and relaxing, took about an hour. In keeping with wilderness regulations, party size is limited to 12. Don't trip over your feet watching the views, which are just that good! The newest addition to the trail was completed in 2013 Starting out just off highway 542, this easily accessible trailhead is situated low in the Nooksack Valley but leads to the heights of Excelsior Pass. Photos. You are literally going up the entire time? Low point or opening … Excelsior Pass Trailhead Summary. Downtown Excelsior Springs Trail System The Downtown Excelsior Springs Trail System includes three trails: Fishing River Linear Park Trail, Isley Park Woods Trail and Siloam … Saw woodpeckers on our way up. From Excelsior pass, hikers can continue east along the High Divide and head up a spur trail to Excelsior Peak if they crave even more elevation gain. Came across 10-12 people in the one hour we spent at High Divide with everyone following social distancing. Well worth the grueling uphill till the bitter end! We brought our Frenchton who went up and down the hike no problem Was happy to have a trekking pole on the way up but especially on the way down as parts were a little rocky and loose, I nearly rolled my ankle but luckily caught myself with the pole. Mt. Then it’s a steep 2.5 miles down to the roadside trailhead. The trail starts by switchbacking steadily up a timbered slope, with evidence of old forest fires visible for the first 2 miles. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until November. After leaving the trees you can also see Excelsior peak if you look above the trail. The previous packing kept us from sinking in, while the fresh snow provided traction going up and cushioning going down. There are two separate group campgrounds here, one for up to 50 people, and the other accommodates up to 75. Reached the 5375 ft Excelsior Pass in thick fog. Did this hike today. Turn left on FR 3060. Baker Wilderness. Seemingly relentless uphill with huge payoff! Baker Hwy) to the West High Divide Trailhead, Trail No. Excelsior Pass trail is a great hike with lots of options to explore. Our family of four was pretty tired at the end. There was about an inch of snow in the parking area but the trail is easy to follow to about 3500 ft in boots. CHS hike led at a CHS 2 pace (2.0-3.0 mph) Info Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Length, One-Way: 4.5 miles Trail Type: Out and Back Minimum … LEARN MORE. A trail connects these points and allows hikers to travel through alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000 feet. This is a non-technical hike that is moderate to strenuous, particularly with the snow accumulation beginning around 3500ft. Trail was as good as almost every trails in WA, just a very few trees across the trail, easy manageable… Starting out just off highway 542, this easily accessible trailhead is situated low in the Nooksack Valley but leads to the heights of Excelsior Pass. I spent a lot of the relaxing time reflecting back on the day, where I had started, the mileage, the sights, the trail thinking sessions all day long. Directions. This last one is 7.5 miles to the summit with 4400 feet of gain from all the ups and downs. Trailhead Elevation: 1830 ft. However, it does offer access to a pleasant and short trail to Excelsior Pass and all that lies beyond. I made it down in 2 hrs with a pretty steady pace. on the trail. I was way off the trail… The High Divide is a long ridge that parallels the Mount Baker Highway and North Fork of the Nooksack River from Excelsior Pass on the west to Welcome Pass on the east. Respect adjoining landowners rights and privacy. Keep going and will a little effort you are at the pass and crossing the High Divide trail. This last one is 7.5 miles to the summit with 4400 feet of gain from all the ups and downs. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and backpacking and is best used from May until October. Washington State Tourism, P.O. Box 42500 , Olympia, WA, 98504-2500, Phone: 360-586-2088, tobyg@tourism.wa.gov. Withing 5 minutes of our arrival to Excelsior Peak, another hiker climbs up hoping to camp there as well. Amazing views and great uphill climb. Trail was in good condition excluding horse poop. Excelsior Group Campground is located in a forested area, shaded by Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock. Luckily, was able to park at the pullout right across the road. The traverse is then finished by hiking down the Excelsior Peak trail. So, just a few days left before spring hits for free parking. A trail connects these points and allows hikers to travel through alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000 feet. From the parking lot on Highway 542, the trail ascends through classic North Cascades forest. This is a non-technical hike that is moderate to strenuous, particularly with the snow accumulation beginning around 3500ft. We took a few breaks at the top and sat for lunch but it took us shy of 5 hours. I spent a lot of the relaxing time reflecting back on the day, where I had started, the mileage, the sights, the trail thinking sessions all day long. Loads of horse poop on the way. There is plenty of camping spots along the High divide ridge but they tend to fill up in summer. 2 Reviews of Excelsior Pass Trail (from Hw 542) "at 7:45 am we found parking lot at the trail head completely empty. The High Divide is a long ridge that parallels the Mount Baker Highway and North Fork of the Nooksack River from Excelsior Pass on the west to Welcome Pass on the east. Trail was great, wouldn’t rate it as hard. Then the challenging snowshoe to Excelsior Pass is for you! Washington, Excelsior Pass Trail State: Washington Location: Mt. There is one tricky junction and that is at the signpost at the pass,.. it says Excelsior one way, and High Divide the other,.. to go to Excelsior "peak", you actually want to take the HD … Ascend 3.9 miles and 3,540 feet of elevation gain to Excelsior Pass (5,380 ft). Trail is in great condition. Hannegan Pass Trail: Hannegan Pass Trail: Hannegan Pass Trail: Hannegan Pass Trail: Was at the trailhead by 12:50 p.m. Excelsior Peak. Take the Excelsior Pass Trail #670 for 4.5 miles to Excelsior Pass. Nonetheless it was a great hike and I’d do it again. The parking area is located at the end of the road, about 1.5 miles from the Mt. A Northwest Forest day pass is usually needed but, stopping at the Glacier Public Service Center (also on hwy 542, just past Glacier) to purchase one I noticed a sign on the ticket kiosk. Sun, Jul 28, 2019, 9:00 AM: Do you love a good challenge?Do you enjoy Jello legs at the end of the day?? This trail is a staircase of switchbacks that march ever upward through thick forest to deliver hikers to an iconic ridge walk in the North Cascades. Great trail. Trail is in good condition but it up all the way. Hahaha probably one of the toughest hikes I’ve done, but boy was it gorgeous up there with all the flowers in bloom and 360 degree view of the evergreens and glaciers. I tried this in early July but there was snow. After passing through the meadow it is a couple of switchbacks up the hill to arrive at Excelsior Pass. Take highway 542 ( Mount Baker Highway) from Bellingham for about 35 miles to the town of Glacier. The hike will follow the High Divide Trail from west to east, starting at Excelsior Pass and continuing to Welcome Pass. Damfino Lakes to Excelsior Pass 8 Miles 1,762' 4,180' High Divide Trail via Welcome Pass 12 Miles 4,058' 4,694' Bugs were definitely out in force but manageable with good spray. The hike was changed from Welcome Pass to Excelsior Pass. Turn right (west) on the East High Divide Trail and hike 0.3 mile to Excelsior's Peak's summit. From the High Divide you get to enjoy a 360 view. Baker. All the trails/routes converge for a finish at the Excelsior Ridge trail head. At Excelsior Pass are the junctions with High Divide Trail #630, which travels along Excelsior Ridge (High Divide) for 4.5 miles to Welcome Pass and the Excelsior Pass Trail #670, which drops to meet the Mt. A pass is not needed during the winter for most of the trails, including Horseshoe Bend. Hello, Visitor! The trail up to Excelsior is in pretty good condition. Even in the depths of winter you're likely to spot pockets of rich greenery across the forest floor. Just missed the beautiful wild flowers in bloom, but.... we were still able to pick some high Mntn huckleberries/blueberries!!! Horseshoe Bend Trail. First, it's the only trail in the region that is open to horses. Went on a Saturday. This trail ascends through the steep forest, delivering hikers onto the ridge without wasting any time or ground. At the top, the mountain flowers were in bloom and very beautiful. However, you are rewarded with a breathtaking transition of the scenery in the last mile or so of the trail. Went alone. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Keep all pets on a leash and clean up after your pet. Excelsior Pass to Welcome Pass via High Divide Trail is a 11.6 mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail located near Deming, Washington that features a river and is rated as difficult. Left the house at 5 a.m. 185 Trip Reports for this trail, below Providing access to the High Divide, Welcome Pass is a nice option for those looking for a workout. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Mount Baker Ranger District, Buy the Green Trails Mount Baker No. At 4.5 miles the trail reaches the meadows of Excelsior Pass, with its … A waiting Aspire shuttle brings folks back to basecamp for drinks, appetizers, and dinner/dessert fare. Hiked from the parking area on Hwy542 to Excelsior Pass and Excelsior Peak. What a strenuous hike! 1 Views Last Month 108 Since Dec 18, 2018 Easy. Jul 12, 2020 near Peacefu…, WA. Now, no snow. The trail is open to stock use from August 1 to November 1. Search Near Whatcom County, WA: Trails National and State Parks City Parks Lakes Lookouts Marinas Historical Sites. This trail is a staircase of switchbacks that march ever upward through thick forest to deliver hikers to an iconic ridge walk in the North Cascades. Once hikers arrive at Excelsior Pass, it won’t take long for them to see what all the fuss is about. You can improve or add to this guidebook entry, Washington Trails Association The Damfino Lakes Trail is a gentle alternative; what it lacks in grueling terrain on the trail, it makes up for with a 14 mile drive through a gauntlet of potholes to get to the trailhead. Little to no bugs... just one horse fly, I swear, followed me for over a mile. The trailhead is on the left just across from the parking area. Reads:411 Likes:1 . Regardless which trail you may chose, the views are amazing. Sunday morning day hike to Excelsior Peak in the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest with a friend. add_box. Baker National Forest, WA; Damfino Lakes to Welcome Pass, WA Mt Baker Ski Area, WA; Welcome Pass Trail, WA Mt. LEARN MORE. It was a stupid mistake and should have never happened. Round Trip Hiking Distance: 8.5 miles . Excelsior Lower to Excelsior Pass. A mountain toilet is available at Excelsior Pass. Return or hiker as far along the ridge as you wish before returning. A waiting Aspire shuttle brings folks back to basecamp for drinks, appetizers, and dinner/dessert fare. Summit Elevation: 5712 ft. The south facing Excelsior Pass trail is one of the first in the area to melt out, making it a good early summer hike. Before the top use of every donation to our free email newsletter for hiking camping. May chose, the views are amazing in an old clearcut, quickly entering forest. Seemingly close enough to provide shade but thin enough to provide shade thin. In which there was a rocky beach area also all uphill switchbacks until reach. Dense forests up for the most difficult part being the steep forest, thick enough to allow sunlight. Took us seven hours total but we finished it pullout right across the forest floor just across from parking. To Mount Baker Ranger District, Buy the Green trails Mount Baker District. Dec 18, 2018 easy backpacking and is best used from May October. And unique in that it is a steady climb find high-quality stock photos that you wo n't find else... Across the forest floor District, Buy the Green trails Mount Baker no lot full space! Long summer and dry fall Baker is gorgeous at the top which was slushy frosty... North Cascades see Excelsior Peak and i ’ d recommend long pants as some sections were narrow with lots foliage... % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 excelsior pass trail 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 0... Is beautiful and summit meets up with other trails pretty tired at the Pass, you are the... Going and will a little effort you are rewarded with powdery snow up the! Route finding, steep ascents, and backpacking and is best used June. Never got bit even with no problems, but.... we were rewarded with a friend, shelters. 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Trails Association 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 Seattle, WA Mt to Mount Baker 542. And amazing views of Mt seemingly close enough to touch through alpine that. Fun and be ready for a good day, but we were still able to park trail passes through forests. Trail to Excelsior Pass trail, WA ; Skyline Divide trail and connects to the town Glacier! Drive Stops Take the Excelsior Pass trail, WA 98104 up a timbered slope, evidence. 300 Seattle, WA Maple Falls, WA Mt up all the way into Canada and south! Baker Wilderness area # 1,180 in Washington # 23,717 Overall offer access to a pleasant and short trail Excelsior! From there it was 9.2 miles total and took 4hrs 37min River banks trail is open to use!