Heliotrope Ridge-Both Glacier Overlook and Climbers' Trail

Mount Baker. Coleman Glacier. Wildflowers. Stream crossings. Mountain climbers. It's gotta be a Heliotrope Ridge hike! We're going to make this more interesting by doing both the glacier overlook and the climbers' trail. This makes this total about 8 miles and 2,800' of cumulative elevation gain, significantly longer than the published length of 5.5 miles and 1,400'. Please note that the hike start time is 9am, and most or all of us will likely meet at Lowes at 7:30am to carpool.

Expect this will total around 8 miles of trail and 2,800 feet of elevation gain, along with several stream crossings. Most crossings are relatively easy but Heliotrope Creek is more complex. Recent trip reports say it's not bad and there are good stepping stones, but bring hiking poles and be prepared to get your feet wet. You may consider bringing some water shoes for this.

Stamina Alert: We will hike at a moderate pace, but this hike has some steep sections and a fair bit of elevation gain. Please be capable of this distance, elevation, and somewhat challenging stream crossings.

Distance: Approximately 8 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,800'
High Point: Approximately 5,800'
Parking Pass: Northwest Forest Pass (as well as Senior, America the Beautiful, etc. WA Discover Pass will not work!)
Dogs: This is a dog friendly event for friendly dogs.
Please carry the 10 Essentials: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Essentials

Carpooling: We'll meet at the Lowes parking lot in Bellingham at 7:30 am near the KFC/A&W. We can carpool/caravan from this point. If you plan to drive directly to the trailhead, please leave a comment below. Glacier Creek Road is mostly paved, but it is rough with potholes/dips. I recommend decent clearance vehicles or a skilled wheel placement driver.
Driving Directions to Lowes: From I-5 take Exit 255 and head east on Hwy 542. Lowes and KFC are almost immediately on your right in a large parking area. We'll meet in the Lowes parking lot near the KFC at 7:30am.
Driving Directions to Trailhead: From Bellingham drive 34 miles east on the Mount Baker Highway to the Glacier Public Service Center, a likely bathroom stop for us. Continue past the center east for about another mile, then make a right onto Forest Road 39 (Glacier Creek Road). After eight miles of mostly paved road, turn left at a junction and continue less than half a mile to the trailhead. Facilities are available here, as is plenty of parking.

We will postpone this hike for heavy rain, high winds, or thunderstorms, so check this site the day before. We will not cancel for light rain or clouds. Please do not make plans for later in the day as we do not know exactly when we will return.

For more information, see:
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/heliotrope-ridge

Disclaimer: We are not professional hiking guides or medical professionals. You alone are 100% responsible for your own comfort and safety. By attending this hike you agree to these terms and do not hold hike organizer(s) liable for injuries and/or medical issues during or after this event.