Quote of the Month:
“Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of its own." - Charles Dickens
“Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of its own." - Charles Dickens
Location: | Mt. Baker Area, Artist Point |
Roundtrip of the trail: | 3 miles |
Elevation Gain: | 560 ft. |
Highest Point: | 5700 ft. |
General Info: | NW Forest Pass Required |
GPS Coordinates: | 48°50'46.8"N 121°41'33.6"W |
Season: | Midsummer - Fall |
Table Mountain Hike is one of the most beautiful, popular and amazing hikes in the Mount Baker Wilderness. Not even the hike itself, but also the drive to the trailhead is very scenic and offers astonishing views of the mountains.
Many people, who do not like to hike, but who adore gorgeous scenery and perfect views choose this place to visit because even the parking lot opens earthshaking views.
The parking lot here is one of the highest places you can drive to at the elevation of 5,100 feet. Be ready to start your hike early because of the popularity of the place.
Artist Point, where the hike begins, is an interesting place from the geological point of view, the mount was formed thousands years ago and resembles a layered cake, some hikers say that it reminds them of a stack of broken plates. The top of the mountain is composed of very old lava flows.
The trail climbs up through beautiful and ancient lava cliffs to the summit of Table Mountain. The path is really rugged and very steep. It’s not recommended to take kids with you, it can be dangerous.
When the trail reaches the plateau, wonderful views unclose before hikers. On a clear day, you will be surely amazed by the views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, as well as by the beautiful landscape that is at your feet. Take a look at our pictures and imagine a perfectly sunny day, mountains covered with snow and glassy lakes and green slopes. This combination is wonderful!
Be ready to meet ample marmots and pikas as well as ptarmigans and grouses, sometimes even goats and bears.
The end of the trail is at 1.5 mile at the top of Table Mountain. Here, it’s time to go back, unless you want to continue.
We recommend visiting Artist Ridge Trail, an easy, 0.5-mile trail that takes you to Huntoon Point. This trail also provides astounding views of North Cascades. Sunsets here are considered to be dramatic and superb, lots of photographers here.
From the Glacier
Drive east to the end of Mt. Baker Highway - SR 542 for about 24 miles. The trail is accessed from the western side of the parking lot, which is opposite the bathrooms.
In order to get the directions click on the link below:
Photo: Roman Khomlyak
Photo Editing: Alex Mandryko
Information: Marina Petrova
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