Skyline Divide

This is one of the nicest alpine ridge hikes in the state. What makes this hike so enjoyable is the 360 degree view that you have continuously along the 3 miles of ridge walking. Flowers are still blooming heavily in the meadows (unusual for September). There are still a moderate number of biting flies, especially in the lush meadows. Bugs are much fewer along the more barren ridge near the end of the trail. The very end of the trail (about 5mi from the trailhead) ascends very steeply up a goat trail to point near the west end of Chowder Ridge. Some exposure here but no special skills needed. Poles very useful on this section. This area feels more remote since most people don't come this far. The view from Chowder Ridge give you a close up view of Baker and looks down on the heavily crevassed Coleman glacier. I also decided to enjoy the section of trail that goes north from the ridge intersection with the forest ascent. This section is almost flat and filled with flowers. Photography was much better in the evening. Next time I will go up to see the sunset and return with a headlight. Conditions are hazy due to the 5 or 6 wild fires burning aroung the state currently. There is no running water on any part of the trail so bring plenty or plan to melt snow (plenty of patches here and there). It is almost a 3 hour drive to the trailhead from south Bellevue. The dirt road is long but in good condition. Milanos in the town of Glacier has awesome pasta if you like tons of garlic.