Ptarmigan Ridge — Saturday, Sep. 1, 2001

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

This trail is spectacularly scenic from beginning to end. The trailhead is at Artist's Point near the Mt Baker Ski Resort. Mt Shuksan is in full view almost the entire length of the trail. The best views of Baker are from where the trail cuts north of the Coleman Pinnicle. There are lots of tasty blueberries along the way. A few easy snowfields must be crossed but nothing dangerous at this time. Poles are helpful. It looks like it would be pretty tricky earlier in the season since the trail traverses some pretty steep hillsides. The trail pitch is very easy except for a moderately steep 1/8 mile segment about 1 mile in. Plenty of other people on this holiday Sunday. No bugs.