There are so many scenic lake trails near Mt. Baker for an elopement. Which one is best for you depends a lot on your fitness, length and elevation climb of the hike. It’s important not only to look at the distance you’ll hike, but how steep it is as well.
I’ve sorted out 8 awesome lake trails near Mt. Baker from super easy to moderate hiking.
PLEASE NOTE: lots of the roads in and around Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie have seasonal closures. You’ll want to check the current road conditions at the Forest Service website here. Fire season can also bring its own unique conditions (above image) so be aware of smoke levels and nearby fires before visiting.
Fire and Ice Trail - 4.5 Stars
0.6miles - 65ft elevation gain
Loop trail
15-30 minutes moving time
The Fire and Ice trail is more or less direct access from the parking area. There is a small gravel path and it’s ideal for families and groups. Due to the easy access, it can be very crowded, so plan accordingly for your photos!
Bagley Lakes Loop Trail - 4.5 Stars
2 miles - mostly flat
Loop trail
1 hour moving time
The Bagley Lakes trail is easy and in good shape, but can be muddy. It can be very crowded due to its accessibility, so I recommend sunrise/sunset times here.
Table Mountain Trail - 4.7 Stars
2.8 miles - 692ft elevation
Out and back trail
1.5 hours moving time
The Table Mountain Trail is short but on the steep side. There are sections which feel like scrambling, so don’t be caught off guard by the short distance. You’ll still want to be in decent shape and willing to “hike” for this one! It can be slippery in wet conditions, so hiking boots and/or poles are recommended.
Lake 22 Trail - 4.7 Stars
6m - 1,446ft elevation
Out and back trail
3.5 hours moving time
The Lake 22 Trail is popular and crowded at times. It can be muddy, with rocks and roots underfoot much of the way. It’s known for being slippery, so have boots and poles. An overall great choice for viewing fall colors and a great length and difficulty for a hiking elopement.
Iceberg Lake via Chain Lakes Trail - 4.7 Stars
4m - 840ft elevation
Out and back trail
2 hours moving time
The Iceberg Lake trail is a relatively easy-moderate trail with great views from the ridge. It can be muddy and rocky in places, so hiking boots and poles are recommended. It can get crowded, so go early to get a parking spot and some solitude. Can be buggy, so bring repellent, and there isn’t much shade, so have sunscreen.
Artist Point and Huntoon Point via Wild Goose Trail - 4.6 Stars
4.4 miles - 984ft elevation
Out and back trail
2.25 hours moving time
The Artist Point trail is open year round for hiking and snowshoeing. It’s very popular without much shade, so going for sunrise is advised.
Annette Lake Trail - 4.6 Stars
6.5m - 1,968ft elevation
Out and back
4 hours moving time
The Annette Lake Trail is a more difficult moderate route for those wanting a longer hike. It’s a forest trail with lots of greenery and a few small rapids and falls.
Heather Lake Trail - 4.6 Stars
4.4miles - 1,204ft elevation
Out and back trail
2.5 hours moving time
The Heather Lake Trail is a moderate route. It’s rocky and rooty, and can be muddy in spring or with recent rains. Bug spray is recommended. It can be busy, so go early to avoid the “cooler and bluetooth speaker” types common on this trail.
Chain Lakes Loop Trail - 4.8 Stars
10km - 1,790ft elevation
Loop trail
3.5 hours moving time
The Chain Lakes trail is one of my favorite lake trails near Mt. Baker for an Elopement. The views of Mt. Baker and Shuksan are classic, but attract many tourists to this spot. It’s an amazing spot for fall colors with expansive views. Sunscreen is a must as there isn’t much shade. Be prepared for the crowds, or arrive at sunrise.
Summary of these 9 Beautiful Lake Trails Near Mt. Baker for an Elopement
I’ve selected these lake trails near Mt. Baker for an Elopement due to their views and general easy to moderate hiking grade. In this category though, be aware that means lots of other hikers. Choose a hike which offers your favorite views, and is within the range of physical exertion you’re comfortable with.
I always recommend hitting these trails at sunrise or sunset times to avoid the day crowds.
What now?
Planning a hiking elopement in the Washington State or Mt. Baker area? Reach out for guidance, or check out my elopement photography packages.
Contact me for more information on hiking elopements near Mt. Baker!
This blog was written, curated and researched by Mariah Arianna, copywriter for photographers and creatives.