State: Washington
Location: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Length, One-Way: 2.6 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 800 feet
Elevation Change: 200 feet
Best Season: Spring to Fall
Difficulty: Easy
Usage: Heavy
Parking: Northwest Forest Pass is required at trailheads.
Whidbey, one of many lighthouses that line Washingtons coast
Trail Information
The Baker River Trail is a low elevation hike which travels through stands of majestic old growth timber, past beaver ponds teeming with wildlife and ends at the confluence of Baker River and Sulphide Creek. Because of its low elevation, this trail is able to be hiked most of the year. Be prepared for wet stream crossings during times of high snowmelt runoff in early summer.
The trail reaches the Baker River Bridge in 0.6 miles. This is the junction with Baker Lake Trail #610, which follows the eastern shore of Baker Lake south for 14.0 miles. Stay left to continue on Baker River Trail.
In one mile, the Baker River Trail enters the North Cascades National Park, limiting party size to 12. No dogs are allowed beyond this point.
Another mile beyond this point campsites are available at Sulphide Camp. A National Park Service wilderness permit is required for overnight stays within the National Park. Permits can be obtained in person at National Park Service offices in Sedro-Woolley or Marblemount.
Directions
From Sedro-Woolley:
Follow State Route 20 east for 16.0 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Road 11). Continue one the Baker Lake Highway for 25.5 miles to the road’s end at the trailhead and parking area.
