Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest - Heather Meadows Visitor Center

Heather and huckleberry meadows dot the majestic landscape at Heather Meadows near the eastern end of the Mount Baker Scenic Byway, Washington State Route 542.

Glistening lakes nestle between knolls. Ridges bristle with 900-year-old mountain hemlock. Even the rocks catch the eye. Lava flows from Mount Baker have resisted glacial carving and columns of andesite stand like black anvils against the sky.

Interpretive signs along the Picture Lake, Fire and Ice and Artist Ridge Trails enhance the story behind this spectacular scenery.

The historical Heather Meadows Visitor Center exhibits offer a glimpse into the area’s colorful cultural history.

The center and area trails are open during the summer season after accumulated winter snows melt out.

During winter months snow-covered slopes offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at the popular Mt. Baker Ski Area located in Heather Meadows. Snow-covered trails outside of the ski area boundaries are not marked or maintained or controlled for avalanches.

For information about accessible recreation opportunities in Pacific Northwest National Forests, visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r6/accessiblerecreation

At a Glance

Fees:	$5/vehicle/day during summer months. No day use charge in winter.
Best Season:	Summer / Fall
Restrictions:	Hikers only, no camping, no fires, dogs must be on a leash.
Closest Towns:	Glacier, Washington
Passes:	Recreation Passes may be used as a form of fee payment.
Information Center:	Call the Mt. Baker Ranger District at 360-856-5700 or the Glacier Public Service Center at 360-599-2714.

General Information

Directions:

From Glacier, travel east on Mt. Baker Highway 542 for 23.0 miles to Heather Meadows.

Accessibility:

See video

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking:

Backpacking

Recreation areas with activity Backpacking:

Viewing Wildlife

Recreation areas with activity Viewing Wildlife:

Viewing Plants

Recreation areas with activity Viewing Plants:

Viewing Scenery

Recreation areas with activity Viewing Scenery:

Interpretive Areas

Recreation areas with activity Interpretive Areas:

Picnicking

Recreation areas with activity Picnicking:

Austin Pass Picnic Area

Skiing/Snowboarding

Recreation areas with activity Skiing/Snowboarding:

General Info:

Safety Information
Seasonal Information

Snow covered routes in Heather Meadows are not marked or maintained. This area is not controlled for avalanches outside of the Mt. Baker Ski Area boundaries.