Chain Lakes Loop – Mount Baker

Let's hike the stunning Chain Lakes Loop at Mount Baker! This trail offers incredible views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Herman, Table Mountain, and multiple beautiful blue lakes (Iceberg Lake, Hayes Lake, Bagley Lakes). This is a spring snow hike, so proper gear is essential.
📍 Hike Details

• Trail: Chain Lakes Loop (Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest – Artist Point)
• Distance: 6.2 miles loop
• Elevation Gain: ~1,800 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Route Type: Loop
• Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass
• Important Note: Artist Point road is likely still closed for winter. We'll park at Bagley Lakes trailhead and add a couple miles to the total distance.

🚗 Schedule & Meeting

• 7:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake P&R (NE 65th St & I-5, Seattle)
• Carpool and depart promptly
• Quick stop at Safeway in Mount Vernon – restroom, coffee, last-minute supplies
• 10:00 AM – Arrive at Bagley Lakes trailhead / winter parking area
• 10:15 AM – Start hiking
• ~4:00 PM – Return to trailhead
• ~7:00 PM – Back at Green Lake P&R

🎒 Required Gear

• Microspikes – essential for traction on icy and packed snow sections
• Hiking poles – highly recommended for stability on steep and slippery terrain
• Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
• Gaiters – helpful for keeping snow out of boots
• Rain pants or trash bag – for glissading on the way down!
• Standard day hike essentials: 2-3L water, lunch, snacks
• Dress in layers for varying conditions
• Sun protection: sunglasses (essential for snow glare!), sunscreen, hat
• Change of clothes, shoes, etc.
• Downloaded map – parts of the trail can be hard to follow in snow

⚠️ Trail Note
The road to Artist Point is closed for winter, so we'll start from the Bagley Lakes trailhead and add a couple miles. We'll hike as far as conditions safely allow. Recent reviews recommend going counter-clockwise to climb up to the saddle first (coming down that steep section in snow would be treacherous). Be prepared for slippery sections and steep climbs. If conditions allow, there may be fun glissading spots on the descent—rain pants make for a much smoother (and drier) slide!
💰 Cost Sharing

• $35 per person to cover running costs including fuel, vehicle wear and tear, and parking. Cash or Venmo.

⚠️ Disclaimer
This is a group-organized hike, NOT a guided tour. The host is not a professional guide, trip leader, or outdoor expert. They are simply organizing a gathering of fellow hikers and are participating in the hike themselves.
You are solely responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and well-being throughout the entire event. Spring snow hiking carries additional risks including icy conditions, slippery terrain, and extreme weather. Please honestly assess your fitness and experience level before joining.