Ptarmigan Ridge, Artist Ridge - Huntoon Point, Fire and Ice Trail & Picture Lake — Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2014

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

Trail Conditions: Overall, the Ptarmigan Ridge trail is in great shape. All along the trail there are sections of loose rocks, so careful footing is required. Those dry, rocky sections can be somewhat "slippery," especially going downhill. There are several snow patches to cross, but all have a clear bootpath through them so route-finding is not a problem. With today's weather, the snow was still firm enough that I didn't punch through, but soft enough that I could create steps to go either up or down. After crossing over the first ridge and dropping back down, there is one section of the trail that goes through a section of dark gray rocks where it can be a little challenging to see the trail. When you get to this spot, climb uphill and to the left through the rocks and you'll see a short snowpatch with a bootpath through it. Flora and Fauna: Wildflowers are past their peak, but a few are still blooming higher up. There are a few ripe berries, but not an abundant source. As far as wildlife, I saw some pika in the rocks, a family of ptarmigan, and a herd of 15-20 mountain goats. Views: Heading in, there are clear views of Mt. Baker for a good portion of the way. While heading out, there are clear views of Mt. Shuksan for a good portion of the way. While those two peaks dominate the skyline, many others line the horizon as well. Artist Ridge, Fire and Ice, and Picture Lake Trails: All of these short trails on the Mt. Baker Highway in the Artist Point/Heather Meadows area are in great shape.

More Information on this Trip Report

• http://hikinglindsay.blogspot.com/2014/08/august-26-ptarmigan-ridge-and-few-others.html