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Just beyond the creek crossing (the one with the log and handrail - Lake Creek?), a section of trail has washed out (see second photo). There might theoretically be a way to get past it, but I wasn't comfortable with the idea and turned around there, making my hike quite a bit shorter than anticipated.
Up until that point, the trail is in good condition, although logs, leaves, and rocks can get slippery this time of year.
Still a scenic walk with some gorgeous old growth and mountain views. I'd consider pairing it with other trails or attractions in the area due to the washout.
I saw vehicles of all clearances at the trailhead, but watch for a few sections of road with numerous potholes.
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It was a clear, warm and sunny day in beautiful Mt Baker wilderness. We took Road 11, 26.5 miles to the end. It is fully paved until the last 6 miles in which there are areas with large potholes. With caution it is passable. We went 5-25 mph in a Subaru Outback. The large parking is at the headwaters at the north end of Baker Lake, and was nearly empty when we arrived at 1pm. We started on the East Baker Lake Trail, which connects to the Baker River TH if you go straight instead of right across the suspension bridge, which we did. Keep your eye out for a cave just before that bridge, and 2 more along the Baker River Trail.
We hiked approximately 1.25 miles to a major creek crossing. There is a cable railing inserted in a leveled downed tree all the way across. Some hikers ahead of us had turned back after seeing a black bear on the other side of the bridge. We continued on to the bridge and cautiously proceeded while making noise. To our delight we spotted the black bear ahead of us to the left peacefully foraging on berries, at times standing on hind legs! After taking some photos, the bear ran away and ahead of us. Since we were between the drop-off to the river on our right and steep forest on our left, we decided to turn back. We also saw very old trees, mushrooms, blueberry and huckleberry bushes, toads, ravens and a garter snake. The views were nice at river crossings.
Once back at the car we drove down to the Shannon Creek Campground for a cold dunk in Baker Lake followed by a picnic on the grass overlooking the alpine scenery. It was the perfect end to an enjoyable day. :)