Artist Ridge Trail 669

Reach this popular trail at the end of the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway in the Heather Meadows area. Along the Artist Ridge Trail patches of heather and mountain blueberries dot the landscape and you may see mountain goats. 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 and a spotting scope. 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-summer. During winter months the trailhead is not accessible in a vehicle and access to the trail requires route finding and snow travel through avalanche terrain.

In the winter this area is popular for non-motorized winter recreation. Routes are not marked and the area is not controlled for avalanches.

Washington Trails Association Hiking Guide and Trip Reports

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

669

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Maps:

Green Trails: Mt. Shusksan #14
USGS: Shuksan Arm

Summer

A valid Recreation Pass required at Artist Point Trailhead and Heather Meadows.

No potable water

Hikers only. No camping in Heather Meadows May 15- Nov. 15. No fires, except self-contained, carry-in stoves. No snowmobiles. Dogs must be leashed within the developed recreation area of Heather Meadows.

Front view of Glacier Public Services Center

Address: 10091 Mt. Baker Highway Glacier, WA 98244
Phone: (360) 599-2714
Hours: Friday-Sunday 8 - 4:30, all passes and permits available. Thursday 8-4:30, Military, Access, 4th Grade Passes, and Forest Product Permits NOT available on Thursdays. Closed Monday-Wednesday
Office Email: sm.fs.mbs_pao@usda.gov

Getting There

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.