🏔️ Fall Hike to Yellow Aster Butte

Join me for a spectacular fall hike to Yellow Aster Butte, one of the most acclaimed hikes in the North Cascades! This trail offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, and a sea of fiery fall colors. We'll journey through vibrant meadows and past beautiful alpine tarns to a rocky summit with breathtaking 360-degree views.

Hike Details

• Trailhead: Yellow Aster Butte Trailhead (Twin Lakes Road)
• Distance: ~8.2 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: ~2,550 - 2,828 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
• Route Info: AllTrails Link

Parking & Permits

• Permit Required: A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass is required to park at the trailhead.

Schedule & Carpooling

• Carpool Meet: Green Lake Park & Ride (NE 65th St & I-5) - 6:00 AM
• Pit Stop: Safeway - 315 E College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (for coffee, restrooms, and last-minute snacks)
• Fuel Reimbursement: Please help your driver with gas and wear-and-tear.
• $25 for three riders
• $35 for two riders
• $45 for one rider
• (Cash/Venmo/Zelle)

Proposed Timeline:

• 6:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake P&R
• 6:15 AM – Depart for trailhead
• ~7:30 AM – Pit Stop at Mt. Vernon Safeway
• ~9:00 AM – Arrive at Yellow Aster Butte Trailhead
• 9:15 AM – Begin hike
• ~12:15 PM – Lunch at the summit - Enjoy the epic views!
• ~3:30 PM – Back to trailhead
• ~6:00 PM – Return to Green Lake P&R (Time may vary)

What to Bring

• Essentials: Plenty of water (2L+ recommended), high-energy snacks, lunch.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good traction.
• Clothing: Layered clothing for changing mountain weather (it can be cold and windy at the top!).

Trail Info & Research

• WTA Trail Guide: Check recent trip reports here! This is crucial for checking trail conditions and potential early season snow.
• Weather Forecast: Check the forecast for the Mt. Baker area as the date approaches.

Disclaimer
This is a group of friends hiking together, not a guided tour. You are responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and decision-making. The hike leader is not a certified guide. By joining this hike, you acknowledge the inherent risks of outdoor activities, including but not limited to: rapidly changing weather, cold temperatures, steep and rocky terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. You agree not to hold the organizer or other participants liable.
You must assess your own fitness level and experience against the trail details provided. The group may splinter based on pace. Please update your RSVP if your plans change.