A group of 5 of us and 2 dogs went backpacking for two nights in Mt. Baker area. We took Ptarmigan Ridge trail about 4-5 miles in and turned left onto a social trail leading to a lake. It's not labeled on most maps, but on some it's labeled as "Jake Lake". The marking spot to turn is around Coleman Pinnacle. Stunning views of Shuksan and Baker.
We went over Labor Day Weekend, so it was obviously very busy. Lots of people out enjoying the weather. At the campsite, there were lots of groups but there was also a ton of space so it wasn't a bother - in fact, it was kind of fun on the first night where you could hear everyone oo'ing and ahh'ing watching shooting stars. A lot of groups cleared out the second night, so we had it to ourselves and maybe 2 other groups.
Couple of notes regarding overnight camping:
- There is virtually no tree cover - it got quite hot in the morning and during the day, so we opted to go around the lake to a covered spot for the day to escape.
- It is very rocky (obviously given where it is) and so you can't stake tents into the ground.
- Pack out everything - meaning, even what's in your bowels. There are blue bags at the visitor center leading into Mt. Baker area.
- Going in and out of the lake area is quite steep - while the main trail has you go left and down, it's relatively easier to go right. Though it won't look like it, going right leads to some natural rock staircases as opposed to loose rock to the left.
Trail is also very exposed so recommend starting early in the AM.
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