Here's yet another muddy, easy hike up a river valley, complete with Nikes* and dogs. The trip's only redeeming quality is the view of Mt. Shuksan from Sulphide Creek. The Crystal Glacier and Jagged Ridge (but not Shuksan's summit) are visible on an average day and spectacular on a sunny one.
The first and last camp is Sulphide Camp. I advise against trying to camp here because it's just enough inside the National Park to require a permit. Even though there is room for a dozen tents, the Park Service limits this camp to two, yes, two parties. You're thinking that sounds like solitude, but it probably isn't. Remember, a party can be up to twelve people...this hike is easy enough for kids...you do the math. (Masochists may vie for permits at the ranger station in Sedro Wooley.)
Photo: Mt. Shuksan's Jagged Ridge as seen from Sulphide Creek.
The trailhead is a primitive campground for fishermen, a veritable beerbelly heaven, so leave no valuables in your car. About 0.6 miles along the way there is a big footbridge (under construction in 1997) crossing the Baker River. The plan is to join the road to the trail along the east bank of the lake and open it to mountain bikers. This is no great loss to the hiking community. Where else but the Baker Lake Trail can you hike all day and still find beer cans and oil bottles on the trail?
But I digress. The river trail does not follow the river very far. Within a mile it heads inland to avoid a large group of beaver ponds. At 1.7 miles a giant log footbridge crosses tiny Lake Creek. At 2.7 miles the trail ends at Sulphide Creek. The water in the creek is tasty (treated, of course). We forded the creek, but rumors of trails beyond here are greatly exaggerated.
*Nike: \ny-kee\ n,-- An unprepared day hiker, named for their street shoes.
Stats: 2.8 miles, 200' elevation gain, 100' loss, high point 950'. Getting there: Drive Highway 20 to the Baker Lake Road (just west of Concrete). Follow this until it turns to dirt, and continue to the end. Trailhead parking fees apply.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.