Just 2 and a half hours away from our city of Seattle, lays the 2nd most active volcano within the Cascade Range. This gorgeous, glaciered -covered volcano, located on Mount Baker is raised 10.781 FT above sea level. It was created during the Ice Age, from layers of mud and lava. Mount Baker is covered with snow and ice almost throughout the whole calendar year.
About 5000 ago, this area was called Quick-Sman-Ik or a “white mountain, populated by approximately 450 Native American families, from the Nooksack Tribe. Another name this area had was, Kulshan or “broken off” (due to its constant volcanic activity), and it was named by the Lumni Tribe.
In 1972 it got its present name, by Lt. Joseph Baker who spotted the peak of the mountain, while sailing near Dungeness Bay.
Five Interesting FACTS about Mount Baker and the Volcano
- Mount Baker is Third highest mountain in Washington State
- The first Ascent on this mountain happened in 1868 by Edmund Coleman, John Tennant, Thomas Stratton and David Ogilvy
- Mount Baker is only 14.913 miles to Canada boarder
- The volcano has erupted 13 times
- Last eruption happened on September 7th, 1880
Mount Baker Scenic Byway
One scenic way to get to the base of the mountain is if you take the 58 -mile track on the Mount baker Highway. This gorgeous ride includes colourful national forest, charming lodging communities, the Nooksack River and magnificent Nooksack Waterfalls.
This ride also gives you plenty of opportunity for stunning photography as well. The end of this track is called “Artist Point,” and is open between July and October. During this time of the year you get to enjoy hiking, horse riding, fishing, kayaking, rafting and much more, as this area offers plenty of recreational opportunities.
Interesting fact: In 1999 there was a 95 inch of snowfall in one season. The Mount Baker holds the US record for the most snowfall.
This area it’s a true enchantment for the skiers and snowboarders, from surrounding areas and abroad.
Roll down your window and immerse yourself into God given’s nature, where the only sound you can hear this time of the year, is the sound of the leaves falling on the concrete road.
Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway
Another scenic way to get to the base of the mountain is if you take this 24-mile trip of the Chukanut Mountains. A gorgeous ride, where the Cascades align with the sea and you get to enjoy the views of the San Juan Islands en route. You can start you trip at the base of Fairhaven historic district, a loveable little area, south of Bellingham, full of charming restaurants, art galleries and waterfront hotels.
Top five events and festivals in the area:
- February: Legendary Banked Slalom(World Largest Snowboarding Competition)
- May: Ski to Sea Race
- June: Deming Log Show
- July: Mount Baker Blues Festival
- September: Mount Baked Hill Climb
Development is strictly prohibited here, and the US Forest Service’s “rule” for all visitors is:
”Walk softly, take only photographs, and leave only footprints.”
Have you already visited Mount Baker? What are your favourite recreational activities? Let us know in the comments below.
