Mount Baker Highway

Although Washington has many scenic drives, few are as spectacular as the last few miles of the Mount Baker Highway. The entire road is considered a scenic highway but most of the approach route through the trees is similar to any other drive through the woods in the Cascades. Be sure to stop along the way at Nooksack Falls, a signed waterfall just a short distance off the highway. The main event is when you reach the Mount Baker Ski Area, the views start opening up. The first big attraction is Picture Lake, elevation 4,100 feet. This is one of the most photographed spots in Washington, with the stunning Mt. Shuksan reflection in the water. What is amazing is that the road completely circles this lake making it hardly wilderness. Yet, the pictures from this spot are in calendars around the world and portray the wild North Cascades. Above the lake, several trailheads offer parking and easy access to mountain lakes and long ridge tops. Austin Pass Picnic Area is among these and a nice place to explore. The road ends at Artists Point, elevation 5,140, well above most the tall trees so the views are quite nice. Easy paved trails take tourists around the area where countless photo opportunities exist. For those inclined, several trails depart the Artist Point parking area, giving some of the best views from the first step out of your car.

Washington High Roads