Horseshoe Bend Trail #687


Area Status: Open

Alert** this trail is closed until further notice at mile 0.1 due to multiple washouts and landslide hazards caused by flooding on November 15, 2021

 

This easy forest hike along the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway is a great family outing for all seasons. You begin descending a staircase, then wind through lush old growth forest following the North Fork of the Nooksack River upstream. Less than a fourth mile from the trailhead enjoy a nice view up East Church Mountain. See whitewater gushing over boulders, forest flowers, moss and an occasional kayaker. Streams that cross the trail are easy to ford except during periods of heavy rain.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Alert** November floods have caused significant trail damage. Unmarked bank erosion and landslide hazards exist beyond mile 0.1.  
Operational Hours: Alert** this trail is closed until further notice at mile 0.1 due to multiple washouts and landslide hazards caused by flooding on November 15, 2021  
Open Season: Year round
Usage: Heavy
Best Season: Year round
Restrictions: Do not disturb spawning salmon. A voluntary river closure is put into effect downstream of Horseshoe bend trailhead Aug. 15-Oct. 15 when river levels are below 1000 cfs.
Closest Towns: Glacier, Washington.
Water: No potable water.
Restroom: Vault toilet located in adjacent Douglas Fir Campground.
Operated By: US Forest Service
Information Center: Check current conditions or call Mt. Baker Ranger District office or Glacier Public Service Center

General Information

Directions:

Travel east on the Mt. Baker Highway SR 542. Approximately 2 miles from the Glacier Public Service Center cross the Nooksack River. The trailhead is located on the right (east) side of the highway, directly across from the entrance to Douglas Fir Campground. Persons camping at Douglas Fir Campground can also access the trail from the campground.


General Notes:

Maps:
• Green Trails: Mt. Baker #13
• USGS: Glacier
• USFS: Mt. Baker Ranger District and Mt. Baker Wilderness
 


Parking:

Parking spaces for 15 cars. Do not park in trailer turn around area.


Accessibility:

The first 100 yards of this trail is universally accessible. Accessible parking is available in Douglas Fir campground.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

River and Stream Fishing

Day Hiking

Elevation desc Elevation Gain/Loss: +100 feet
Difficulty Level: Easy

Viewing Wildlife

Viewing Plants

Viewing Scenery

Visitor Programs

Interpretive Areas

Boating - Non-Motorized

Related Information

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

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Location

 
  Area/Length : 
1.5 miles one-way.

  Latitude : 
48.902222

  Longitude : 
-121.910278

  Elevation : 
950 feet.