The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State extends more than 140 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains from the Canadian border to the northern boundary of Mt. Rainier National Park. The Forest covers portions of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, King and Pierce Counties. Nearly 2/3 of the Washington’s population lives within an hour of the Forest. Another 1.5 million people in the Vancouver, British Columbia metro area are also within easy reach of the northern part of the Forest. The large population factor, coupled with easy road access, makes the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest one of the most visited National Forests in the country. The Supervisor’s Office is headquartered twelve miles north of Seattle in Mountlake Terrace with District offices in Sedro-Woolley, Darrington, Skykomish and North Bend. The Forest also operates an Outdoor Recreation Information Center in Seattle in partnership with the National Park Service, Northwest Interpretive Association and REI. A visitor information center at Snoqualmie Pass and public service centers at Enumclaw, Verlot and Glacier are also staffed (mostly on a seasonal basis) to provide information about the forest.
The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest contains many scenic and historical points of interest. A colorful past history, including logging and mining, dominates some areas. Mountain tops gradually rise from 5,000 to 6,000 feet on the south end of the forest to 7,000 to 8,000 feet in the north. Two tall volcanoes, Mt. Baker and Glacier Peak, tower thousands of feet above the adjacent ridges. The Forest is home to more glaciers and snow fields than any other National Forest in the lower 48.
The Forest is also rich in lakes, with about 800, mostly in alpine areas. Baker Lake, a 10 mile long reservoir near Mt. Baker, produces hydro power for local electric utilities and provides exceptional recreation opportunities.
Recreation
Camping is one of the most popular recreation activities in the Stanislaus National Forest. The ideal camping time in most Forest areas is May to October, prior to winter storm activity. Although limited, reservation campgrounds are available, however the majority of Forest campgrounds are operated on a first-come, first serve system. Aquamarine lakes and streams, wildflowers, spectacular vistas and unique geological formations await hikers and nature lovers in the Stanislaus National Forest. Hikers, horseback riders and backpackers have 480 miles of trails and over 1000 miles of unsurfaced roads available for their use and enjoyment.
Whitewater enthusiasts might consider a trip down the Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River on the Groveland Ranger District, or the North Fork Stanislaus River on the Calaveras Ranger District. Both rivers are very technical (Class IV and V) and suited for experienced boaters. You can organize a rafting trip on your own, or arrange a trip with a commercial rafting company.
Traveler Facts
Contact Information
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
21905 64th Avenue W
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043-2278
Phone: 425-775-9702
Weather/Climate
A Mediterranean type climate extends over most of the Forest with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters. Weather can change rapidly during all seasons of the year. Elevation plays a major role in temperature and precipitation. This precipitation falls mainly from October through April. At higher elevations, it comes mostly in the form of snow. A snowpack from 5-10 feet or more is usually present from December to May at elevations above 6,500 feet. Winter temperatures below zero and summer temperatures above 100 degrees indicate the normal seasonal spread.
Clouds can build up during the summer to produce spectacular thunderstorm activity. It is wise to pack for any season with clothing that can be “layered”, ready to peel off or add on as the thermometer dictates. Always include some kind of rain gear.
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