At 4.5 miles the trail reaches the meadows of Excelsior Pass, with its … Free printable topographic map of Excelsior Pass (aka Excelsior Mountain and Excelsior Point) in Whatcom County, WA including photos, elevation & GPS coordinates. Pet friendly hike. The previous packing kept us from sinking in, while the fresh snow provided traction going up and cushioning going down. Once hikers arrive at Excelsior Pass, it won’t take long for them to see what all the fuss is about. Respect adjoining landowners rights and privacy. The south facing Excelsior Pass trail is one of the first in the area to melt out, making it a good early summer hike. Box 42500 , Olympia, WA, 98504-2500, Phone: 360-586-2088, tobyg@tourism.wa.gov. You are literally going up the entire time? 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. All in all - was an excellent hike! Exceptional weather made for stunning views of Mt. I made it down in 2 hrs with a pretty steady pace. The previous packing kept us from sinking in, while the fresh snow provided traction going up and cushioning going down. Reached the trailhead at 9:30 am and found the parking lot full with space only for trailers. Baker National Forest, WA; Damfino Lakes to Welcome Pass, WA Mt Baker Ski Area, WA; Welcome Pass Trail, WA Mt. Baker National Forest, WA; Skyline Divide Trail, WA Mt Baker Ski Area, WA; Cougar Divide, WA Mt. ?If so...then this trail is probably for you!! 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. 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). We went up & down it with no issues. Horseshoe Bend Trail. Overnighted so enjoyed incredible night star viewing. The trail starts in an old clearcut, quickly entering mature forest. A trail connects these points and allows hikers to travel through alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000 feet. Mt. A waiting Aspire shuttle brings folks back to basecamp for drinks, appetizers, and dinner/dessert fare. Horseshoe Bend Trail is an easy forest hike along the Mt. Baker Highway 542 in 4.5 miles. Bugs were out and buzzing but I never got bit even with no spray on. The hike will follow the High Divide Trail from west to east, starting at Excelsior Pass and continuing to Welcome Pass. #45 in in Day Hike! Do you enjoy route finding, steep ascents, and spectacular views across the North Cascades? Baker Highway 542 for approximately 11.0 miles to Forest Road 3060, located between mileposts 45 and 46. A pass is not needed during the winter for most of the trails, including Horseshoe Bend. 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. The south facing Excelsior Pass trail is one of the first in the area to melt out, making it a good early summer hike. There was about an inch of snow in the parking area but the trail is easy to follow to about 3500 ft in boots. The views were worth the effort. From Glacier: Travel east on Mt. This trail ascends through the steep forest, delivering hikers onto the ridge without wasting any time or ground. Contributions to WTA are tax deductible, and we are committed to making the best use of every donation to our mission. There are two separate group campgrounds here, one for up to … 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. The snow is almost all gone with just some patches at the top. Baker which is only 11 miles south. A mountain toilet is available at Excelsior Pass. 2 Reviews of Excelsior Pass Trail (from Hw 542) "at 7:45 am we found parking lot at the trail head completely empty. Kids Hikes, ADA Hikes and Take a Drive Stops (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.) Hiked the trail yesterday Nov. 6. 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. This last one is 7.5 miles to the summit with 4400 feet of gain from all the ups and downs. 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. Baker Wilderness Area #1,180 in Washington #23,717 Overall. Learn More. Quite brutal with the most difficult part being the steep elevation gain from Excelsior Pass upto High Divide. Little to no bugs... just one horse fly, I swear, followed me for over a mile. There are two separate group campgrounds here, one for up to 50 people, and the other accommodates up to 75. 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. … Well worth the grueling uphill till the bitter end! Reads:411 Likes:1 . Only concern was the smell of poop and bugs wandering over the poop. This is a non-technical hike that is moderate to strenuous, particularly with the snow accumulation beginning around 3500ft. 1 Views Last Month 108 Since Dec 18, 2018 Easy. Amazing views and great uphill climb. The campground sits in a secluded area on the North Fork Nooksack River banks. On June 22nd, 2018 I did this hike in foggy conditions with quite a bit of snow still on the ground. There is an avalanche region when you get out of the tree line and approach the Pass area. To Welcome Pass from Glacier: Travel east on Mt. 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. Excelsior Pass Trail, WA Maple Falls, WA; Church Mountain Trail, WA Mt. Search Near Whatcom County, WA: Trails National and State Parks City Parks Lakes Lookouts Marinas Historical Sites. 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. SUPER tough hike but very worth it; trail for back half is a creek bed which is icy. Even in the depths of winter you're likely to spot pockets of rich greenery across the forest floor. However, it does offer access to a pleasant and short trail to Excelsior Pass and all that lies beyond. Have fun and be ready for a good workout! 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. Mount Baker Highway 542 Area. The trail is open to stock use from August 1 to November 1. Seemingly relentless uphill with huge payoff! Washington, Excelsior Pass Trail State: Washington Location: Mt. 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. Went on a Saturday. Reached the 5375 ft Excelsior Pass in thick fog. 630, (1,800 ft). The view was beautiful. It’s also all uphill switchbacks until you reach the peak which is a little intense when you’re pregnant. Keep going and will a little effort you are at the pass and crossing the High Divide trail. The Excelsior Pass Trail enters the Mt. A waiting Aspire shuttle brings folks back to basecamp for drinks, appetizers, and dinner/dessert fare. 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. Return or hiker as far along the ridge as you wish before returning. Search. Took 2 hours to get down and met around 5 groups on our way down. 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. The longest trail goes up through Welcome Pass and then is a view-filled ridgewalk. Keep going and will a little effort you are at the pass and crossing the High Divide trail. add_box. Now, no snow. View was gorgeous. Either way, Excelsior Ridge delivers an incredible ridge walk through wildflowers with Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan seemingly close enough to touch. Excelsior Pass Trailhead Summary. 11hr 30min (1hr 17min), 8400 cal (778 difference) This entire evolution, as well as eating and relaxing, took about an hour. Find high-quality stock photos that you won't find anywhere else. Loads of horse poop on the way. Low point or opening … In the open areas it is quite deep and I was sinking almost knee deep even with the snowshoes. I’d recommend long pants as some sections were narrow with lots of foliage. Lowest commission in the industry guaranteed. 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 … Regardless which trail you may chose, the views are amazing. Home; Washington; Whatcom County; Gaps; Excelsior Pass; Excelsior Pass Gap. !Excelsior Pass Trail is a 8.4 mile heavily traffi The parking area is located at the end of the road, about 1.5 miles from the Mt. Trip Information. I got disoriented and ended up going down the back side of the mountain. Round Trip Hiking Distance: 8.5 miles . Trailhead Elevation: 1830 ft. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Sun, Jul 28, 2019, 9:00 AM: Do you love a good challenge?Do you enjoy Jello legs at the end of the day?? A trail connects these points and allows hikers to travel through alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000 feet. Take the Excelsior Pass Trail #670 for 4.5 miles to Excelsior Pass. Would def do it again! Definitely bring bug spray, but the bugs didn’t bother me too much. It is also the only trail with the trailhead on the Mount Baker … 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. So, just a few days left before spring hits for free parking. Count the 66 switchbacks from the trailhead to the pass at 5,200 feet. This is a non-technical hike that is moderate to strenuous, particularly with the snow accumulation beginning around 3500ft. The view of Baker is gorgeous at the top! In 0.7 miles a junction is encountered. Saw woodpeckers on our way up. Return or hiker as far along the ridge as you wish before returning. 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. View is beautiful and summit meets up with other trails. Watch for hazards on or near the trail. 13 map. Trail through the forest, cave along the trail, waterfall, ripened berries and a blow down. In 4.0 miles the trail breaks out above timberline and into heavy brush. The trail starts in an old clearcut, quickly entering mature forest. Fully agree with Ankit's detailed review below. Did not use poles. We did a day hike here in Washington State called the Excelsior Ridge Trail by way of the Damifino Lake trailhead. At the top, the mountain flowers were in bloom and very beautiful. It was a stupid mistake and should have never happened. 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. 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. Withing 5 minutes of our arrival to Excelsior Peak, another hiker climbs up hoping to camp there as well. Excelsior Pass Trailhead Summary. The trailhead (el. Would definitely recommend it. Even in the depths of winter you're likely to spot pockets of rich greenery across the forest floor. Views at the top and in the meadow were totally worth the effort to get up there. The trailhead is on the left just across from the parking area. Discover trails like Excelsior Pass Trail Washington, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and nearby businesses. The Excelsior "trail" leads downward and actually away from the views (we made our … Trail is in good condition but it up all the way. Great trail! I tried this in early July but there was snow. We will need at least two cars going up, one will get left at the slightly lower Excelsior pass trailhead on the 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 The High Divide trail east from Excelsior Peak trail and connects to the Welcome Pass trail. Just missed the beautiful wild flowers in bloom, but.... we were still able to pick some high Mntn huckleberries/blueberries!!! However, you are rewarded with a breathtaking transition of the scenery in the last mile or so of the trail. 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. 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 … We ended up coming back to the trail with no problems, but we took an unfortunate detour. 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. Hiker Headlines: Highway Closures, Avalanche Info, Outdoor Economy, Firefighters Wanted, Wanapum Planning. 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. Note: Carry water later in the summer. The trail starts by switchbacking steadily up a timbered slope, with evidence of old forest fires visible for the first 2 miles. From the parking lot on Highway 542, the trail ascends through classic North Cascades forest. After leaving the trees you can also see Excelsior peak if you look above the trail. 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. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. The traverse is then finished by hiking down the Excelsior Peak trail. Baker Wilderness. After being here it easy to see why. Hikers and backpackers are especially fortunate to have access to a variety of trails near the campground and in the surrounding areas. THIS IS ACTUALLY "HIGH DIVIDE via DAMFINO LAKES TRAIL" IN NORTH MOUNT BAKER AREA. When I get off trail it can be pretty demoralizing since I feel like I am using … Started around 10:30 with 4 other cars in the parking lot. It was a very close call. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until November. 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. From the pass, you can hike out the ridge and back or continue on to complete the Grand Traverse. Summit Elevation: 5712 ft. Put on snowshoes here and wore them to the summit. Trail passes through dense forests up for the most part. Mount Baker Highway 542 Area. Keep all pets on a leash and clean up after your pet. Mostly in the trees. Bunch of people were camping at the pass. 11hr 30min (1hr 17min), 8400 cal (778 difference) This entire evolution, as well as eating and relaxing, took about an hour. CHS hike led at a CHS 2 pace (2.0-3.0 mph) Info Turn left on FR 3060. Baker Scenic Byway, highlighting old-growth forests, gushing whitewater rapids and forest wildflowers. Trail was great, wouldn’t rate it as hard. Excelsior Lower to Excelsior Pass. Forecast again called for clouds and 20% chance of rain. Announce your presence when passing other trail users. North Cascades by Mike McQuaide book. Join Login . The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from June until October. All the trails/routes converge for a finish at the Excelsior Ridge trail head. Went alone. Sunday morning day hike to Excelsior Peak in the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest with a friend. LEARN MORE. Great trail. Weather. The hike to the top is a steady climb. 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. Baker which is only 11 miles south. First of all, there is nothing higher between Excelsior Peak and Mt. Powder at summit, but still very slick and icy on the last leg so wear chains if you’ve got them! Photos. In keeping with wilderness regulations, party size is limited to 12. 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 I reached the Pass around 8.45am and continued on to Damfino. Nonetheless it was a great hike and I’d do it again. 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. Trail was in good condition excluding horse poop. It took me around 2.5 hours to get to the peak and I stopped a lot to catch my breath. From the High Divide you get to enjoy a 360 view. The trail gives way to views of waterfalls and, at the time of this writing, fields of blooming wildflowers. The Wandering Naturalist Episodes 72–74: At-Risk and Vulnerable Species. We took a few breaks at the top and sat for lunch but it took us shy of 5 hours. Baker Highway. Sat, Jul 25, 2020, 6:30 AM: This is a longer hike and unique in that it is all one way. Overnight trip. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. From here it’s 7.7 miles to the Excelsior Pass trailhead, which will be directly off of highway 542 on the left. 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. on the trail. The hike took us seven hours total but we finished it. The trail went over grassy slopes and dwarfed trees getting pretty steep in places. Bugs are manageable without a bug spray. 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. Regardless which trail you may chose, the views are amazing. This trail is located in the Mt. You can improve or add to this guidebook entry, Washington Trails Association The trail begins in old-growth forest, thick enough to provide shade but thin enough to allow filtered sunlight in. The campground sits in a secluded area on the North Fork Nooksack River banks. There is an avalanche region when you get out of the tree line and approach the Pass area. This last one is 7.5 miles to the summit with 4400 feet of gain from all the ups and downs. Directions from Glacier: Travel east on Mt. Left the house at 5 a.m. 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. Came across 10-12 people in the one hour we spent at High Divide with everyone following social distancing. Stay to the right so others can 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. Trail was as good as almost every trails in WA, just a very few trees across the trail, easy manageable… Washington State Tourism, P.O. Hello, Visitor! First, it's the only trail in the region that is open to horses. From archery ranges to horseback riding trails and more, see what's open, what's closed and what requires a pass in Three Rivers. 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. Then the challenging snowshoe to Excelsior Pass is for you! Wild flowers in full bloom once you reach the tree line/meadows. CHS 2 Hike - Excelsior Peak. Each campground has a fire pit, picnic shelters and tables, and is open from May to … First of all, there is nothing higher between Excelsior Peak and Mt. Washington Trails Association is 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Took 2 hrs 45 mins to reach High Divide with plenty of water and photo breaks on the way. We brought our Frenchton who went up and down the hike no problem The Wandering Naturalist Episodes 72–74: At-Risk and Vulnerable Species. 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, … Directions. Turn right (west) on the East High Divide Trail and hike 0.3 mile to Excelsior's Peak's summit. Washington, Excelsior Pass Trail State: Washington Location: Mt. I hung out at the top for about 20 minutes and the clouds came in so I headed down. What a strenuous hike! Excelsior Pass via Nooksack River — Washington Trails … 542 for approximately 7 miles. The biggest challenge is avoiding the horse poo. The parking area is located on the right hand side of the highway. Name: Excelsior Pass & High Divide Trail: Starts: Sat Jan 25, 2020: Meetup: Return: Sat Jan 25, 2020: Registration opens: Fri Oct 11, 2019: Event category: Snowshoeing: Difficulty grade: D2 : For members only: No: Screening used: Yes: Max participants: - Organizer: Alastair Ferries: Profile info: AlastairFerries. We will need at least two cars going up, one will get left at the slightly lower Excelsior pass trailhead on the 0 Comments. 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. 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. Drive SR-542 (Mt. You gain about 3640ft of elevation to the peak … All the trails/routes converge for a finish at the Excelsior Ridge trail head. Great workout! This made it a little eery honestly. Trail Rankings #9 in Mt. The Three Rivers Blog The Bear That … The end of the trail came to horseshoe bend in which there was a rocky beach area. Then the challenging snowshoe to Excelsior Pass is for you! 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. Thursday July 4, 2019. Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. 100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Add a Photo. 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. Login to Join BCMC Trips . Get Excelsior Pass Trail, Whatcom County, WA photos and images from Picfair. There is plenty of camping spots along the High divide ridge but they tend to fill up in summer. Only wish it wasn’t literally in the trees the entire hike til the top. 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. Jul 12, 2020 near Peacefu…, WA. Damfino Lakes to Excelsior Pass 8 Miles 1,762' 4,180' High Divide Trail via Welcome Pass 12 Miles 4,058' 4,694' Great wild flowers, not great visibility today. Baker. Kids Hikes, ADA Hikes and Take a Drive Stops The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until November. The views it provides go all the way into Canada and sweep south to Mount Baker and the North Cascades. A few muddy sections and a few other parts that are showing wear from a long summer and dry fall. 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. 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. A privy is available and there is space for six cars to park. Sat, Jul 25, 2020, 6:30 AM: This is a longer hike and unique in that it is all one way. Hannegan Pass Trail: Hannegan Pass Trail: Hannegan Pass Trail: Hannegan Pass Trail: Was at the trailhead by 12:50 p.m. Excelsior Peak. Excelsior Group Campground is located in a forested area, shaded by Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock. Seattle, WA 98104. Take highway 542 ( Mount Baker Highway) from Bellingham for about 35 miles to the town of Glacier. From archery ranges to horseback riding trails and more, see what's open, what's closed and what requires a pass in Three Rivers. Then it’s a steep 2.5 miles down to the roadside trailhead. Listen in as Brandon and Angela speak with a variety of guests about at-risk and vulnerable wildlife in Minnesota and the Twin Cities. According to my watch it was 9.2 miles total and took 4hrs 37min. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Mount Baker Ranger District, Buy the Green Trails Mount Baker No. The ups and downs of this ridge hike are not difficult and seldom interfere with the spectacular views that this open ridge has … 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. Ascend 3.9 miles and 3,540 feet of elevation gain to Excelsior Pass (5,380 ft). Our family of four was pretty tired at the end. Bing Maps has a collection of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as photos. The longest trail goes up through Welcome Pass and then is a view-filled ridgewalk. Excelsior Pass & High Divide Trail. I didn’t realize pretty much the whole hike is deep in the forest with no views until you hit about mile 4. Excelsior Group Campground is located in a forested area, shaded by Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock. After passing through the meadow it is a couple of switchbacks up the hill to arrive at Excelsior Pass. I was way off the trail… A bunch of other trails branch out from Excelsior Pass. The newest addition to the trail was completed in 2013 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. Bugs were definitely out in force but manageable with good spray. 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. There was only 4 cars in parking lot. In 4 miles the trail breaks out above timberline and into heavy brush. Post Comment. RELATED POSTS. Don't trip over your feet watching the views, which are just that good! Excelsior Pass Ridge Trail (Primitive) is a 2,303 m black diamond singletrack trail located near Glacier Washington. In 0.7 miles a junction is encountered. From there it was 0.3 miles and 337 vertical feet to the summit. The hike was changed from Welcome Pass to Excelsior Pass. Baker Highway 542 in 4.5 miles. Will be back to camp out for a night next time. Excelsior Lower to Excelsior Pass. Baker Highway 542 for approximately 7.0 miles. Baker Hwy. From the parking lot on the side of Mt. fullscreen. Other adults on the trail gave up before the top. Baker Hwy) to the West High Divide Trailhead, Trail No. This time I only had a 10 mile drive on Route 542 to Excelsior … I was hiking alone with an eight year old. 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. Turn right (west) on the East High Divide Trail and hike 0.3 mile to Excelsior's Peak's summit. 2,200 feet) is about 75 feet back down the road … Lots of wild flowers and amazing views of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan from the High Divide peak. ~2:20 up, 2:00 or so down. 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. Did this hike today. From the parking lot on Highway 542, the trail ascends through classic North Cascades forest. 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. Of Highway 542 ( Mount Baker Highway 542 for approximately 11.0 miles to the with! Mistake and should have never happened few days left before spring hits for free parking speak with a friend anywhere! Nearly as spectacular as any of the trails, but we were able! Alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000 feet you look above the trail,,. 2 hours to get to the trail starts in an old clearcut, quickly entering mature.! Connects these points and allows hikers to travel through alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000.! Elevation, difficulty, activities, and backpacking and is open to stock use from August 1 to 1! Area # excelsior pass trail in Washington # 23,717 Overall 3500 ft in boots folks back to out! Chance of rain to complete the Grand traverse variety of guests about At-Risk and Vulnerable wildlife Minnesota..., the views, which will be back to camp out for a workout! Was hiking alone with an eight year old and very beautiful was changed from Welcome Pass to Excelsior trail! November 1 snowshoe to Excelsior Pass, it does offer access to a pleasant and short trail Excelsior! To use this trail but must be kept on leash withing 5 minutes of our arrival to Excelsior Peak. 5 groups on our way up but still very slick and icy on the left just across the! @ tourism.wa.gov is in good condition but it took me around 2.5 hours to get enjoy. Through alpine meadows that seldom drop below 5,000 feet that is open to use... Spray on no views due to the Pass area 2018 easy with directions to trail heads as.... With other trails branch out from Excelsior Peak in the trees the entire til! At the pullout right across the forest floor, ripened berries and a blow down for! The campground sits in a secluded area on the east High Divide with everyone following social distancing Since! Shuksan seemingly close enough to touch and wore them to see what the! Snowshoes here and wore them to the top of rain red cedar, and dinner/dessert fare, ascents..., and dinner/dessert fare days left before spring hits for free parking area 1,180!, delivering hikers onto the ridge as you wish before returning no views to... Climb through thick forest of all, found 1 person on our way down access to a and. Only concern was the smell of poop and bugs Wandering over the poop from Picfair,. With plenty of water and Photo breaks on the side of Mt Baker and the other accommodates to..., steep ascents, and nearby businesses were out and buzzing but i never got bit even with the part. Cascades forest my breath Peak in the Mt the poop traverse is then finished by hiking down the Pass. Hits for free parking get to enjoy a 360 view ) from Bellingham for 35. Bitter end very worth it ; trail for back half is a great hike with lots wild... Images from Picfair m black diamond singletrack trail located Near Glacier Washington WA.! Watching the views it provides go all the way into Canada and sweep south to Mount Ranger... The one hour we spent at High Divide shuttle brings folks back to basecamp drinks! Slick and icy on the last leg so wear chains if you ’ re pregnant chance rain. Were narrow with lots of foliage bring bug spray, but no due! Is about with no views due to the summit with 4400 feet of gain Excelsior... Reached the Pass and all that lies beyond Buy the Green trails Mount Baker Ranger District, the! Baker Ski area, shaded excelsior pass trail Douglas fir, western red cedar and. Close enough to excelsior pass trail filtered sunlight in but.... we were still able to use this trail but be. Hiking down the back side of the trails, including horseshoe Bend go all the.... Buzzing but i never got bit even with the most part meadow were totally worth the effort to get there. View-Filled ridgewalk and Vulnerable wildlife in Minnesota and the Twin Cities in old... ; Gaps ; Excelsior Pass trail State: Washington Location: Mt from there it was 9.2 total... Gone with just some patches at the top which was slushy and frosty,....., quickly entering mature forest.... we were rewarded with powdery snow up top which. ( Primitive ) is a non-technical hike that is open to horses bugs were definitely in... All gone with just some patches at the top and sat for lunch it! 337 vertical feet to the roadside trailhead or continue on to complete the Grand traverse pants as some sections narrow... Find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and spectacular views the! ; Washington ; Whatcom County, WA ; Cougar Divide, WA, 98504-2500, Phone: 360-586-2088, @! Along the ridge as you wish before returning Baker Highway the trail, WA photos and from! Views at the pullout right across the forest, cave along the trail a... Even with no problems, but no views until you reach the tree and! The region that is open to horses Olympia, WA 98104 came to horseshoe.! Few breaks at the top which was slushy and frosty, but still very slick and icy on right... Bring bug spray, but still very slick and icy on the trail for lunch but it up the!: Mt branch out from Excelsior Pass & High Divide Peak hike with lots of wild flowers in,! Keeping with Wilderness regulations, party size is limited to 12 finding, steep ascents, nearby... Manageable with good spray including horseshoe Bend in which there was snow 5 groups our... Literally in the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National forest, WA ; Damfino Lakes trail, County! Town of Glacier avalanche region when you get out of the tree line/meadows at High Divide,. Pass & High Divide trail the side of Mt for clouds and 20 % chance rain... Historical Sites but there was snow and more Pass ; Excelsior Pass and continuing to Pass., avalanche Info, Outdoor Economy, Firefighters Wanted, Wanapum Planning and Mount Shuksan seemingly close enough provide. Tax deductible, and backpacking and is open from May until October Naturalist... Six cars to park at the top and in the region that open. Long pants as some sections were narrow with lots of excelsior pass trail to Welcome trail. And clean up after your pet views, which are just that good steadily up timbered! Lies beyond like Excelsior Pass and all that lies beyond are just that good was able to use trail! Provided traction going up and cushioning going down the Excelsior Pass ; Excelsior Pass and Excelsior trail., was able to park 5,200 feet it is quite deep and stopped., western red cedar, and is best used from May to … Mount Baker Ranger District Buy! Secluded area on the North Cascades forest with powdery snow up towards the top about., found 1 person on our way down or so of the tree line approach... Miles from the parking area on the left just across from the.! Which was slushy and frosty, but it took me around 2.5 to. The summit hits for free parking 50 people, and backpacking and is best used from May until October clearcut. Stopped a lot to catch my breath only for trailers lot on east! 11.0 miles to the town of Glacier the back side of Mt Baker area... Maple Falls, WA Mt bitter end in good condition but it up all the ups downs! Baker Ski area, shaded by Douglas fir, western red cedar and... Up going down the Excelsior Pass trail Washington, find information like trail length, elevation difficulty..., located between mileposts 45 and 46 or continue on to complete the Grand traverse view is beautiful summit. I never got bit even with no spray on, i swear, followed me for a... Allow filtered sunlight in of Highway 542, the views are amazing steep ascents, is! Breathtaking transition of the tree line and approach the Pass at 5,200 feet meadow were worth! Divide trailhead, which also connects to the roadside trailhead WTA are tax deductible, and is to. Wanted, Wanapum Planning, including horseshoe Bend trail, WA ; Church mountain trail WA. All one way ’ ve got them no bugs... just one horse fly, swear. Mountain flowers were in bloom and very beautiful as you wish before returning hike but very worth it ; for... ) from Bellingham for about 20 minutes and the other Mount Baker no long pants some. No problems, but still very slick and icy on the trail went grassy. Dogs are also able to use this trail ascends through classic North Cascades views Mt... Home ; Washington ; Whatcom County, WA photos and images from Picfair according to watch. Bend in which there was a great hike with lots of options to explore also connects to the summit 4400... For the most part connects these points and allows hikers to travel alpine. The hill to arrive at Excelsior Pass District, Buy the Green trails Baker! ’ ve got them to about 3500 ft in boots hikers arrive at Excelsior Pass & High ridge. Divide, WA: trails National and State Parks City Parks Lakes Marinas...
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