A superb hike in an outstanding area of the Mt. Baker wilderness! Although the hordes were to later descend upon the upper slopes, the somewhat mixed weather or clouds and sun, probably kept the crowds down some. The trail is in very good shape, only one difficult stream crossing at 1 mile, and one blowdown tree across the trail. The major problem this early is the upper snow above 4700' covering the trail to Glacier View and also the climber's trail to the upper part of the ridge. Once up on the ridge, the mountain was visible at times, depending upon the quickly moving, wind-blown clouds. Sun occasionally came through and warmed the slushy snow-covered slopes. Marmots were very visible and vocal, but wildflowers will have to wait for another month to appear. There were lots of muddy places on the trail, and water ran down the trail in other places making the hiking slippery at times. Still, this is a good early summer hike and the views of the glaciers are not to be missed!

Friday evening went up to the Hogback, planning to climb the North Ridge next morning. Snow mostly gone except for the last section up to the hogback itself. Scads of snow above that... Friday night there were only three or four tents visible, but... If you wanna do any climbing on Mt Bakers north side, go midweek...We counted AT LEAST 200-250 people coming in mid-afternoon Saturday. It was ugly. There were four groups of at least 25 each... Doesnt say much for the potability of the water in this area. Nevertheless, the water I did drink and sick I did not get (yet!). Heard some rumors of a team that arrived at trailhead 5:00 am Saturday, did the north ridge route, then were back at the cars by 3:30 pm or so...Now that's hoofing it!!!