You don’t go to Artist Point on a sunny weekend in October for solitude. You go for the stunning beauty and fall colors. All were there in abundance, the beauty, the colors, and the crowds.
We arrived at about 9:15am and it was pretty full but was still easily able to find a parking spot in the main lot. However I’d say the lot was full within 20 min of our arrival. When we left around 1:30pm the gravel lot a little lower on the road was full along with cars all along the road.
The temperature was very pleasant and the wind was calm in the morning, picking up to a stiff breeze in the afternoon. Both Shuksan and Baker were out in the clear, though some clouds moved in on Baker in the late morning.
The trails were busy, but you can still take the time to enjoy scenery. Lots of folks doing the chain lakes loop. Most hikers were very respectful on the trail.
The small bathroom facilities at the parking lot can barely handle the crowds. I’d say much of the morning there was a 5-10 min line for the men’s and 10-20 min wait for the women’s restroom!
Don’t let that dissuade you. This place is amazing. Great place to take friends and family that are not experienced hikers. Also it’s a wonderful place for photography if you can be patient with the crowds. If not, come on a weekday!
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