The Chain Lakes Loop packs Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan and a string of alpine lakes into 6.5 miles, and fall color is the reason to go
Mount Baker doesn’t make you wait for the view. On the Chain Lakes Loop it shows up early, then keeps reappearing next to Mount Shuksan and a handful of glassy alpine lakes.
The loop covers 6.5 miles with about 1,820 feet of climbing, which is a real day out but not a punishing one. Ready to see why this one has such a loyal following?
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The loop by the numbers
You’ll cover 6.5 miles and climb roughly 1,820 feet, topping out at 5,400 feet on Herman Saddle. Washington Trails Association rates it moderate to hard, so expect to work for it without needing to scramble.
The trail can start from Artist Point, Austin Pass near Heather Meadows, or the Bagley Lakes trailhead. Going counter-clockwise from Artist Point puts the steep Wild Goose descent first, which is worth knowing if your knees have opinions.
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Lakes, peaks, and autumn color
The route passes Bagley Lakes, Iceberg Lake, Hayes Lake, and the paired Mazama Lakes. Along the way you get views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, Mount Herman, Table Mountain, and the surrounding North Cascades.
Here’s my one firm opinion: autumn is the season to walk it. The hillsides are known for blazing fall color, and a chilly morning on the ridge beats a sweaty July slog.
Before you lace up
Parking calls for an America the Beautiful Pass or a Northwest Forest Pass. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
This high country gets snow as the season turns, and the road up to Artist Point closes for winter. Check current road and trail conditions with the Forest Service and WSDOT before you drive up, and pack layers because the weather changes fast at 5,000 feet.
If camping tempts you, there are only designated sites at Mazama Lake and Hayes Lake, four at each. Which view would you stop for first, Baker or Shuksan?
Trip tips: grab a rental car to get out here, lock in your hotel before the good rooms are gone, or skip both and book a camper van instead.
Rules and fees change, so always confirm current requirements before you go.
