Baker Lake - Maple Grove — Saturday, Mar. 31, 2018

I was on a mission to get good views of Mt. Baker. 

There were a few potholes on the road but they were easily avoidable. There's a big, impactful view of Baker as you're driving in. Peek over to the right as you cross the dam and spy an interesting waterfall. 

I started hiking from the southern TH slightly before 7. There were a few other cars but I didn't see other people for about 4 hours. The trail is in good shape despite a few navigable blowdowns. I went a little under 6 miles to a bridge slightly past a moss covered viewpoint (pictured) before turning around. I took 3 breaks: twice at Maple grove (the first time clouds were covering everything, but on the second break the views were great) and at my turnaround (hard to find a good spot to sit here). 

My mission was achieved despite low clouds rolling in for 1-2 hours. The views of Baker and Shuskan were delightful. The trail occasionally enters very mossy forest and has a number of playful streams. 

I saw a goose leg with no goose attached and a hidden waterfall (though I didn't attempt to go off trail to get up close). I didn't appreciate having off leash dogs sprint at me. 

Stats: 11.97 miles, 1036 ft of ascent (surprising), 5:04:49.