Baker is an old-school gem in Washington state with plenty of powder.
Baker Ski Area
There aren’t many places likeMt.
Baker has been majority-owned by community members since 1953 and managed by the Howat family since 1968.
Credit:Courtesy of Mt. Baker Ski Area
“We’re not a ski resort.
We’re a ski area.
Her father took over the resort when it had only two chairlifts.
Courtesy of Mt. Baker Ski Area
The ski area even holds the world record for snowfall: 1,140 inches in one season.
Beyond adding more lifts, not much else has changed since the Howats took over.
It’s not part of a mega pass, and its lift tickets remain well under $100.
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It operates off the grid and avoids advertising.
In addition to an old-school feel, Baker has a singular setting.
It sits less than 60 miles from the ocean between Mt.
Shuksan, a glaciated massif, and Mt.
Baker, an active glacier-covered stratovolcano.
When youre ready to enjoy the steep and deep of Mt.
Baker, heres where to start.
When to Go
Unlike many ski destinations, there’s no official opening date at Mt.
They remain open through April.
Historically, the snow has slowed down through the month of January and ramped back up in February.
February and March are safe bets when it comes to good, reliable powder and low crowds.
What it lacks in lavish amenities it makes up for in natural surroundings.
Luxury Getaways
For a little more space, opt for aLuxury Getawayscabin rental.
Amenities vary, but some cabins have fireplaces, hot tubs, wet bars, and other appealing perks.
Camping
In yet another departure from ski area norms, Mt.
Baker lets youcamp in your RVright in the Heather Meadows or White Salmon parking lot.
Advance reservations are required.
Stop by to get your caffeine fix and a muffin or scone for the road.
Rifugios Country Italian Cuisine
Mt.
It’s in Deming, a 37-mile drive from the ski area, and open Friday through Sunday.
Baker and a classic margarita renamed The Chute.
When there isn’t live music, there’s often a sporting event to watch on the TVs.
Graham’s Bar & Restaurant
Graham’sin Glacier is a bona fide dive.
It’s the kind of place with antler decorations and picnic table seating.
Off-mountain Activities
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Swap your skis for snowshoes.
Artist Pointis a moderate snowshoe route that provides breathtaking views of the Cascade Range.
Conveniently, the four-mile round-trip trail is accessed from the ski area parking lot.
Other snowshoe routes are located along the Mt.
Go for a scenic drive on Mt.
Even folks who don’t stop to ski at Mt.
Baker love to road trip on its namesake highway, aka the Baker Scenic Byway.
Along it, you get views of the North Fork Nooksack River, Mt.
Baker, and Mt.
The route stretches 57 miles from Bellingham to Artist Point.
See a frozen waterfall.
It’s worth taking the short detour from Mt.
The easy walk to the base of the falls takes only a couple minutes.
However, season passes can be purchased online.
All rental packages include skis or a snowboard, bindings, boots, and poles for skiing.
you could also opt for just the board or skis.
Helmets can be rented separately.
There are basic and premium packages and half- and full-day options at both locations.
Skiing and Snowboarding Info
There are more than 30 trails among Mt.
Seasoned skiers and riders will find the most challenging terrain on three double black diamond runs.
The ski area has 10 lifts, including eight quad chairs and two handle tows.
The highest Chair 8, going up the Shuksan side climbs to 5,089 feet.
Programming
As Gwyn Howat said, Mt.
Baker is not a resort.
There aren’t many activities or programs offered here, but the ski areadoes hold lessonsdaily.
There are group sessions for beginners as well as private lessons for individuals and groups of all ability levels.
