Baker River, East Bank Baker Lake — Friday, May. 1, 2009

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

Great, easy, lonely river hike. Last few miles on gravel road in good condition and no snow. Huge parking lot and I was the only car all day. Trail is mostly level but some up/downs as it follows the river. Both the Baker River and the Baker Lake trail share the first 1/2 mile of trail. At 1/2 mile from start, the Baker Lake trail crosses the river over a massive suspension bridge. I walked over the bridge and continued 1/4 mile but didn't continue because of the trail washout ahead about 1.75 miles and signs indicating the trail is closed beyond that point. I continued the river trail, crossing several blowdowns, crossing small streams, and at the end, some very small patches of snow. Sulphide camp at the end of the trail is clear of snow. I walked over logs to a gravel island in the middle of the river and had a great view of the back side of Mt Shuksan and the river. Only 6 miles RT and perhaps 500 foot elevation gain but a great spring hike if you don't like walking in snow and you love solitude (during the week). Great photos but all >1mb..sorry.