Artist Ridge: Easily access for nature lovers

ISAAC BONNELL

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Perhaps the most majestic mountain vista in Whatcom County, Artist Ridge is easily accessible to all nature lovers. Partially paved, the trail moves through pristine mountain terrain. The glaciers on Mount Shuksan glisten to the east and the volcanic cone of Mount Baker looms to the west.

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation gain: None

Round trip: 1 mile

Hiking time: 20 minutes

Best times to hike: August through September

Users: Hikers, wheelchair accessible to first viewpoint

Family friendly: Yes

Dogs: Dogs must be on a leash.

Amenities: Two vault toilets at parking lot.

Current conditions: Path is clear of snow. Call Glacier Public Service Center at (360) 599-2714.

Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required; $5 for the day or $30 for an annual pass.

Maps: Green Trails No. 14: Mount Shuksan; USGS: Shuksan Arm

Getting there: Drive east on Highway 542. Follow to the end. Drive time from Bellingham: 1 hour, 40 minutes.

Parking: Park at end of road.

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