Trip Report
Day Hike - Excelsior Ridge (East High Divide Trail)
A real grunt on the 1.5 mile section of STEEP switchbacks. Worth it with spectacular views from the easy High Ridge trail.
Chuck Gustafson
- Sat, Jul 21, 2018
- Day Hike - Excelsior Ridge (East High Divide Trail)
- Excelsior Ridge (East High Divide Trail)
- Day Hiking
- Successful
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- Road suitable for all vehicles
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FS road 3060 is rough all the way, however some giant holes will stop anybody without a high clearance 4WD. I had to lock the differential to get out of the hole and have 10" of clearance. Suggest most cars park in wide spot on the south side of 542 a few feet to the west. This only adds 1.4 miles FT and 450 feet.
Tread was in very good condition. Only a few feet of snow on the section we hiked, but big patches on the north side of the ridge. The switchbacks getting to the ridge are as advertised VERY steep. A steady low moderate pace with regular rest stops gets you up. However, this is not a trip for anyone not in good condition.
Views from High Ridge were very good and very different from views are other trails in the areas. Shuksan and Mt. Baker are right in your face, you look right down into the Nooksack Valley and good views of peaks to the north and west. No flowers for us, but in the a week or two they should be great. Only a few bugs, but when the flowers bloom expect others.