Mount Baker Highway

head east from bellingam to mount baker

Length

58 Miles | 93 KM

Drive Time

2 Hours

Recommended Stay

1 Day

Regions

Northwest

explore the mount baker scenic byway

State Route 542 between Bellingham and Mount Baker

The Mt. Baker Scenic Byway (Mount Baker Highway) connects the waterfront city of Bellingham to picturesque Mount Baker in the Cascade Mountain Range. While not a long drive, it delivers with old-growth forests, waterfalls, and the Nooksack River, culminating in panoramic views of Mount Baker and other Cascade Mountain Range peaks. Spring through fall is fantastic for hiking, while winter brings snow sports to the Mt. Baker Ski Area and surrounding foothills.

Time Your Trip
While most of State Route 542 is open year-round, the road to Artist Point (the final 2.7 miles of the highway) typically closes east of Glacier for the winter around mid-October or early November. The section reopens around mid to late June. Winter recreation is still possible from Heather Meadows and the Mt. Baker Ski Area.

discover destinations

Bellingham
The scenic byway begins in this vibrant coastal city nestled on Bellingham Bay. Known for its historic downtown, craft beer scene, scenic waterfront, and access to outdoor recreation, Bellingham serves as the starting point for exploring the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway.

Deming
Nestled along the Nooksack River, this community with roots in the logging and timber industry serves as one of the first stops on the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway. Time your visit for the Deming Logging Show to explore the community’s roots in the logging industry.

Kendall & Maple Falls
These small communities are a great base for grabbing a craft beer at a local brewery or visiting nearby Nooksack Falls or Silver Lake Park.

Glacier
Glacier makes a great last stop for a bite before continuging toward Mount Baker. The Glacier Public Service Center offers maps, trail conditions, and forest passes before deeper exploration into the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. To the east, Nooksack Falls is a popular spot.

Mount Baker
At the end of the highway you’ll find the Mt. Baker Ski Area and picturesque Artist Point. The ski area is know for stellar skiing and snowboarding, while Artist Point offers hiking trails with sweeping mountain views.