Artist Ridge Trail 669
Reach this popular trail in the Heather Meadows area from the end of the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway. Along the Artist Ridge Trail patches of heather and mountain blueberries dot the landscape and you may see mountain goats on cliffs across the Swift Creek drainage. On clear days, expansive mountain views, dominated by Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan, stretch from Canada to Mount Rainier.
A universally accessible paved path leads 100 yards to an overlook with benches. Interpretive panels explain the natural and cultural history. This “lollipop” trail with one way out and a loop at the end is usually snow free by mid-August and still has enough snow for sledding and snowball fights in July.
During winter months the trail is a popular snowshoe destination. The trailhead is not accessible in a vehicle in winter and access to the trail requires route finding and travel through avalanche terrain.
Non-motorized access only during winter months. Snowmobiles prohibited.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Maps:
- Green Trails: Mt. Shusksan #14 and Mt. Baker Wilderness 13SX
- USGS: Shuksan Arm
- USFS: Mt. Baker Ranger District and Mt. Baker Wilderness
USFS: Mt. Baker Ranger District and Mt. Baker Wilderness
Green Trails: Mt. Shuksan #14 and Mt. Baker Wilderness #13SX
Summer
A valid Recreation Pass must be displayed in vehicles at Artist Point Trailhead and other trailheads in the Heather Meadows area during the open season. *Please note that the Washington State Discover Pass is not accepted at Forest Service fee sites
Overnight parking in winter at the Bagley Lakes Trailhead requires a reservation and fee through Mt. Baker Ski Area during their operating season.
No potable water
Restrictions:
- Hikers only
- No camping May 15-Nov. 15
- No fires, except self-contained, carry-in stoves
- Snowmobiles prohibited.
- Dogs must be leashed within the developed recreation area of Heather Meadows
Address: 10091 Mt. Baker Highway Glacier, WA 98244
Phone: (360) 599-2714
Hours: Friday - Sunday 8 am - 4:30 pm. Closed Monday - Thursday. Daily Operation will start in late June.
Getting There
Parking
When the road to Artist Point is open in the summer, park at Artist Point.
During winter months parking is at the upper ski area parking lot/Bagley Lakes Trailhead. Overnight parking is allowed in winter only and requires a reservation and fee through Mt. Baker Ski Area.
Directions
Travel east to the end of Mt. Baker Highway SR 542. It is approximately 24 miles from the Glacier Public Service Center to the Artist Point parking lot. The trail can be reached at two locations on the southern side of the parking lot. The universally accessible entrance is located near the end of the parking lot by the restrooms.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service, Mt. Baker Ranger District
