10 Best Things to Do in Glacier, WA

April 4, 2020 - Updated

Glacier, WA was founded in 1909 by Jennie Vaughn. Originally a logging and mining community, this small hamlet is famous for being close to the magnificent Mt. Baker and is well known to river rafters, hikers, skiers, and snowboarders who frequent the Mount Baker Area. It is the last outpost on the Mount Baker Highway and offers food and lodging but no gas. With a population just a bit over 210, Glacier is where you go to experience nature, far from human distractions.

1.Mount Baker Ski Area

Nestled in Whatcom County, Washington, at the end of State Route 542, the Mount Baker ski resort records the world’s greatest snowfall in a season (29.0m in 1998-99). Teeming with several challenging in-bounds routes, the backcountry is readily accessible through various chairlifts. The resort also boasts of a natural half pipe which attracts competitors from all over the world, professional and amateur alike in The Legendary Banked Slalom event. The winner in each category receives a duct tape trophy and an embroidered Carhartt jacket. Late November heralds the beginning of the ski season, which typically ends in late April. Working hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Address: Mt. Baker Ski Area Business Office ¬?1420 Iowa Street Bellingham WA 98229, Phone: 360-734-6771

2.Heliotrope Ridge

Unlike its name indicates, there are no heliotrope flowers on this ridge. Early explorers mistook the local Valerian for the vanilla-scented Heliotrope, and it has been called that ever since. This well-traveled trail is situated in the North Cascades, Mount Baker Area and presents a stunning view of Mount Baker. Packed with creek crossings and breathtaking glacier views, the trail hike is a fun activity for family, friends and the lone backpacker. The water crossings can get tricky, so hikers are advised to be cautious, especially with kids and dogs. The trail is 5.5 miles (roundtrip) and bonus point; there is a lot of parking space.

Address: Mt. Baker Ranger District 810 State Route 20 Sedro Woolley, WA 98284, Phone: 360-856-5700

3.Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road that runs through Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It is accessible through four points; at US 340 near I-66 in Front Royal, US 211 in Thornton Gap, US 33 in Swift Run Gap and US 250 near I-64 in Rockfish Gap. The road, which was started in 1931, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, became a National Scenic Byway in 2005, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008. At the speed limit of 35 miles per hour, visitors usually take 3-4 hours or half a day to complete the drive. There are also several campgrounds, visitor centers, and resorts along the way.

Address: Shenandoah National Park, 3655 Hwy 211 East

Emergency Line: 800-732-0911

Information Line: 540-999-3500, Luray, VA 22835

4.Table Mountain

With a steep incline and a treacherous ascent, this craggy trail is a thrill for hikers and is definitely not suitable for children and pets. Due to its nearness to the Mt. Baker Resort, the Mountain is accessible all year round. The relatively flat top of the mountain offers an amazing view of Mt. Baker and Shuksan, and there are many interesting rock formations on the way up. Scenic sites such as the Heather Meadows and its lakes are as well a sight for sore eyes. Backpackers are also advised to wear the proper footwear and return the same way they came up.

Address: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA, 98201, Phone: 425-783-6000

5.Lake Ann Trail

Situated in the North Cascades of the Mt. Baker Area, the Lake Ann trail offers awesome views of Mount Baker and Shukshan. With its incredible views and relatively easy trail, The Lake Ann can get a bit crowded. This 8.2-mile hike starts from a lush forest setting and is punctuated with meadows, wildflowers, streams, and creek. The crack of glaciers careening over the mountain faces provides a surreal soundtrack on this trail. Wildlife also abounds in this trail, especially the endangered picas. The road can get a little rocky, so hikers are advised

Address: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A, Everett, WA, 98201, Phone: 425-783-6000

6.Image Lake

Originally called ‘Mirror Lake,’ its name was changed to ‘Image Lake’ on April 10, 1940, by Hugh Ritter and Rudo Fromme, who were employees of the US Forest Service. This glacier made lake is enclosed by Plummer Peak in the east and Glacier Peak in the north, and its outlet provides a spectacular view of the latter(hence the name). It is located in the North Cascades of Washington, United States. Its temperate alpine vegetation is a haven for wild flora and fauna. There is also archaeological evidence pointing to the fact that Native Americans once inhabited the area seasonally more than 8500 years ago. The Lake is accessible from the Suiattle River Road.

Address: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Darrington Ranger District, Phone: 206-625-1367

7.Glacier Ski Shop

Tucked in the snowy mountains of Glacier, Washington, just off Highway 542, a quaint log cabin is a home to this amazing ski shop. Owned by the Adams brothers, who are professional skiers themselves, the shop sells all kinds of ski merchandise. Visitors can also rent ski equipment too. With a knowledgeable and experienced staff, well-stocked shelves, quality gear at an amazing value and a service that is commendable, the Glacier Ski Shop blends traditional ski history with top-notch contemporary ski techniques. The shop also offers maintenance services and ensures that its clients are equipped with all they need to take on the wonderful challenge that is Mount Baker.

Address: 9966 Mt. Baker Highway, Glacier, Washington, Phone: 360-599-1943

8.Park Butte Trail

This trail of approximately 7.5miles (round trip) provides an open panoramic and picturesque view of Koma Kulshan, Mount Baker, The Twin Sisters and the large expanse of the North Cascades. This, of course, makes it pretty popular amongst hikers, and there is no want of backpackers on trail. Dotted with an old fire lookout pointsrivers, lakes, meadows and a variety of wildflowers, Park Butte is filled with all kinds of wildlife ( like the frolicking Pika). Visitors are given a chance of signing in the lookout register or maybe write something down in the poetry register. And if they are early enough, hikers could camp overnight in the lookout.

Address: Mt. Baker Ranger District, Sedro Woolley Office, Phone: 360-856-5700

9.Milano’s Pasta Fresca

Established in 1990, Milano’s served delicious pasta with homemade sauces made one plate at a time, so each serving is fresh and unique. Under the nurturing hands of its original owners, Tom and Jeannie Debari, Milano’s Pasta Fresca grew to become one of the main attractions in the town of Glacier, Washington. Now under the management of the new owners, Sam (who also runs a local distillery) and Nancy Hassan, Milano’s has seen certain exceptional additions to the wine & beer list, as well as the specials. It still maintains its position of pride as one of the greatest eating places in Whatcom County and possibly beyond.

Address: 9990 Mount Baker Highway, Glacier WA 98266, Phone: 360-599-2863

10.Wake N' Bakery

Located just one block off the Mt. Baker Highway, in the heart of Glacier, the Wake N’ Bakery is owned by Court and Rebecca Andersen. It first started as a supplier of baked goods for the Graham Restaurant and Store and served its first latte on the porch of the Glacier Ski Shop. Due to its excellent menu, travelers from all over the Mt, Baker Area always frequented the small cafe, and soon it outgrew the porch. Now just behind Milano’s, the Bakery offers a wide variety of hot breakfast and lunch options and a great selection of baked goods in its cozy confines.

Address: 6903 Bourne St., Glacier, WA 98244, Phone: 360-599-1658