Day Hike - Chain Lakes Loop

Mt Baker Mountaineer's Lodge parking area (across from Picture Lake). Refer to the Baker Lodge website here. 

Meeting time will be after breakfast at the Lodge is done (9am).

I will be staying at the Baker Lodge all weekend (Fri-Sun). Hikers are welcome to also stay.

We will depart from the Baker Lodge parking lot, and hike through the Bagley Lakes Basin. The trail starts out with a gradual climb, then quickly gains elevation (1200ft) up to Herman's saddle. There are stunning views from the saddle of various alpine lakes, Table Mountain and Mt Shuksan. 

From Herman Saddle, we'll hike down to Iceberg Lake, traverse through the valley towards Mazama Lake. 

Then we'll traverse along the south side of Table Mountain to Artist Point. There's another small climb (700ft) as we ascend to Artist Point. Again, views abound!

Finally, we'll finish out trip by descending from Artist Point back to the Baker Lodge.

The pace will be moderate, with stops for taking photos and enjoying the gorgeous scenery. We will stop for lunch mid-way. Be capable to hike at a steady moderate pace.

The hike is exposed (no tree cover) so plan accordingly (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, wind breaker). We're also at elevation (max 5200ft), so weather can change quickly, and it will be cooler - pack rain jacket and extra layers. The trails are fairly well maintained in this area. Hiking boots or sturdy trail runners should be sufficient.

Swimming in one of the lakes is also a possibility, when we break for lunch.

Stay at the Lodge on Saturday night and enjoy a warm meal and a shower. Or stick around for a post-hike beverage. 

I am staying at the Lodge all weekend (Fri-Sun), and will be posting a Sunday hike from the Mt Baker area as well.