Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1

Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1


	Courtesy of EatStayPlay.com

Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1 is a spectacular ridge walk for experienced hikers. The trail begins in meadows and then heads directly toward the crown jewel of the national forest, Mt. Baker. Start by following the Chain Lakes trail west, skirting the lava walls at the base of Table Mountain. At about one mile, the trail reaches a junction. A right turn leads to Chain Lakes (Trail #682). Take the trail on the left to go to Ptarmigan Ridge. Look for marmots and pikas along the trail. While enjoying the views into the Swift Creek and Wells Creek drainages, lucky hikers may spot the local mountain goat herd grazing on slopes below the ridge. At about 4 miles, the trail reaches the base of Coleman Pinnacle. From there, the trail continues to a lava field with great views of Mt. Baker, then on to Camp Kiser, 5 miles from the trailhead. Steep slopes, snow and poor visibility are common hazards on this ridge hike. Snow and poor weather conditions often create whiteout conditions along the trail. All hikers on Ptarmigan Ridge should carry a compass and appropriate maps, and should be able to use them. The trail is rocky and difficult to follow even in good weather. Expect to encounter snowfields on Ptarmigan Ridge year-round. Only experienced hikers should attempt to cross snowfields. The trail follows a high steep ridge and a fall could result in serious injury. The Ptarmigan Ridge Trail enters the Mt. Baker Wilderness. In keeping with wilderness regulations, party size is limited to 12. There is no camping within 1.0 mile of the Ptarmigan Ridge and Chain Lakes junction. Campers should use established sites along Ptarmigan Ridge Trail. No fires are allowed. This trail is 4 miles long and is considered to be more difficult.

Facilities: There are no facilities provided at Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1.

Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted for Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1.

Best Time To Visit: Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1 is open summer through fall.

Fees: No fees are charged, but a Northwest Forest Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.

Accessibility: This trail is not handicap accessible.

Rules: Do not litter.

Directions: To reach Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1 from Bellingham, start out going northeast on J Street toward Ellsworth Street for 0.1 miles. Turn left onto Girand Street for less than 0.1 miles. Turn right onto Broadway for 0.3 miles. Turn slight left onto Sunset Drive for 1.8 miles. Sunset Drive becomes WA-542 for 32.3 miles. Turn left onto Vaughn Avenue for less than 0.1 miles. From the Glacier Public Service Center, travel east on Mt. Baker Highway 542 for 24 miles to Artist Point. Look for the trailhead at the northwest side of the parking area. This trailhead accesses both the Table Mountain and Chain Lakes trails. Use the Chain Lakes Trail to access Ptarmigan Ridge Trail.

Attractions Near
Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #682.1

Chain Lakes Trail #682
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Address

Mt. Baker Ranger District-Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

810 State Route 20

Sedro-Woolley, Washington 98284

Phone
General: (360) 856-5700

Website

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