Glacier, WA

Mount Baker Ski Area

Nestled in Whatcom County, Washington, at the end of State Route 542, the Mount Baker Ski Area records the world’s greatest snowfall in a season (29.0m in 1998-99). Teeming with several challenging in-bounds routes, the backcountry is readily accessible through various chairlifts. The resort also boasts of a natural half pipe which attracts competitors from all over the world, professional and amateur alike in The Legendary Banked Slalom event. The winner in each category receives a duct tape trophy and an embroidered Carhartt jacket. Late November heralds the beginning of the ski season, which typically ends in late April.

Address: Address: Mt. Baker Ski Area Business Office ¬?1420 Iowa Street Bellingham WA 98229, Phone: 360-734-6771

Heliotrope Ridge

Unlike its name indicates, there are no heliotrope flowers on this ridge. Early explorers mistook the local Valerian for the vanilla-scented Heliotrope, and it has been called that ever since. This well-traveled trail is situated in the North Cascades, Mount Baker Area and presents a stunning view of Mount Baker. Packed with creek crossings and breathtaking glacier views, the Heliotrope Ridge trail hike is a fun activity for family, friends and the lone backpacker. The water crossings can get tricky, so hikers are advised to be cautious, especially with kids and dogs. The trail is 5.5 miles (roundtrip) and bonus point; there is a lot of parking space.

Address: Mt. Baker Ranger District 810 State Route 20 Sedro Woolley, WA 98284, Phone: 360-856-5700

Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road that runs through Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It is accessible through four points; at US 340 near I-66 in Front Royal, US 211 in Thornton Gap, US 33 in Swift Run Gap and US 250 near I-64 in Rockfish Gap. The road, which was started in 1931, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, became a National Scenic Byway in 2005, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008. At the speed limit of 35 miles per hour, visitors usually take 3-4 hours or half a day to complete the drive. There are also several campgrounds, visitor centers, and resorts along the way.

Address: Shenandoah National Park, 3655 Hwy 211 East

Emergency Line: 800-732-0911

Information Line: 540-999-3500, Luray, VA 22835

Table Mountain

With a steep incline and a treacherous ascent, this craggy trail is a thrill for hikers and is definitely not suitable for children and pets. Due to its nearness to the Mt. Baker Resort, the Table Mountain is accessible all year round. The relatively flat top of the mountain offers an amazing view of Mt. Baker and Shuksan, and there are many interesting rock formations on the way up. Scenic sites such as the Heather Meadows and its lakes are as well a sight for sore eyes. Backpackers are also advised to wear the proper footwear and return the same way they came up.

Address: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA, 98201, Phone: 425-783-6000

Lake Ann Trail

Situated in the North Cascades of the Mt. Baker Area, the Lake Ann Trail offers awesome views of Mount Baker and Shukshan. With its incredible views and relatively easy trail, The Lake Ann can get a bit crowded. This 8.2-mile hike starts from a lush forest setting and is punctuated with meadows, wildflowers, streams, and creek. The crack of glaciers careening over the mountain faces provides a surreal soundtrack on this trail. Wildlife also abounds in this trail, especially the endangered picas. The road can get a little rocky, so hikers are advised

Address: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA, 98201, Phone: 425-783-6000

Image Lake

Originally called ‘Mirror Lake,’ its name was changed to ‘Image Lake ’ on April 10, 1940, by Hugh Ritter and Rudo Fromme, who were employees of the US Forest Service. This glacier made lake is enclosed by Plummer Peak in the east and Glacier Peak in the north, and its outlet provides a spectacular view of the latter(hence the name). It is located in the North Cascades of Washington, United States. Its temperate alpine vegetation is a haven for wild flora and fauna. There is also archaeological evidence pointing to the fact that Native Americans once inhabited the area seasonally more than 8500 years ago. The Lake is accessible from the Suiattle River Road. Image Lake Map

Address: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Darrington Ranger District, WA