Ptarmigan Ridge

Temporary Closure

5/29/21 Update: SR-542 is closed at Milepost 55.6 to Artist Point. Visit the Washington State Department of Transportation "Artist Point" web page and the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest "Alerts & Notices" web page for more information.

getting there

Drive SR 542 east  to the Glacier Public Service Center (Ranger Station). In winter, continue 22.5 miles to the Mount Baker Ski Area and continue to the uppermost parking lot (4,250 ft). In summer, continue another 2.5 miles to the Artist Point trailhead and large parking lot (5,100 ft).

During winter and early spring, all cars must carry chains and a snow shovel!

on the trail

10 miles round trip with 1,300 feet of elevation gain

Hike the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail from Artist Point to the base of the Sholes Glacier (5,990). The trail is more of a climber's path than a maintained trail.

ski route

13 miles round trip with 2,500 feet of elevation gain

Climb to  Austin Pass  and then along Ptarmigan Ridge to ski one of the many options even as far as Coleman Pinnacle or Sholes Glacier.

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Skiing, Day Hiking, Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Moderate, M2 Mountain 2 Ski
• Length: 10.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,300 ft
• High Point: 5,990 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
  Mount Baker Wilderness, Mount Baker Ranger District (MBSNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12