Mt. Baker Highway

One of America’s Scenic Gems

From Bellingham to the majestic peak of Mt. Baker, State Route 542 offers visitors a step back in time. It’s an unpretentious route, winding through farmlands, rolling wooded hills, and small communities.

As the two-lane road climbs, the scenery grows in splendor and the air is crisper.

The final 24 miles of the route are designated a U.S. National Forest National Scenic Byway, from the quaint village of Glacier to Artist Point (elev. 5,140 feet).

As you approach the end of the road, it’s like the best was saved for last. After driving the final miles in hair-pin curves, the stunning views of the North Cascades unfold in snow peaked glory. And then, your breath is taken away. You see Mt. Shuksan reflected in Mirror Lake, probably the most photographed mountain scene in the Western hemisphere.

For the avid skier, this is where heaven begins. Mt. Baker Ski Resort offers skiers and snowboarders some of the finest terrain and the best snow conditions in the west. For details on all snow activities check our downloadable Snow Sports fact sheet.

For a downloadable map, print out our Mt. Baker Byway brochure.

Try these mile-by-mile map pages for more information:
I-5 to milepost 9, milepost 10-21, milepost 22-40, milepost 41-end of highway.

History of the Mt. Baker region

Ancient volcano
Nooksack tribe
Timber industry
Mining
The highway
History of climbing
Mt. Baker Lodge

Call toll-free 1-800-695-7623 for conditions on Mount Baker Hwy. Traction devices may be required. For more information go to state highways

Trail Question? Ask a Forest Ranger

Call the Glacier Public Service Center, Memorial Day to October (360) 599-2714, or Mt. Baker Ranger District year-round (360) 856-5700. Visit Mt. Baker- Snoqualmie National Forest for more details.

The center at Glacier is jountly operated by the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service. The Northwest Forest Pass for National Forest Trails costs $5 for a daily pass or $30 for a seasonal pass. Stores and U.S. Forest Service centers sell the pass.

For a Mt. Baker Highway brochure, call 1 (800) 487-2032 (U.S. and Canada) or (360) 671-3990. E-mail tourism@bellingham.org.

Information:
Mt. Baker Foothills Chamber of Commerce
(360) 599-1518
info@mtbakerchamber.org
Glacier Chamber of Commerce
(360) 599-2299
info@glacierchamber.org