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ForestMatters, LLC

Chain Lakes Loop

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington · 6 min read

Distance
7.9 mi
Elevation Gain
1,900 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Views of Mt. Baker's glaciated north face throughout the loop
  • Three subalpine lakes: Iceberg, Hayes, and Arbuthnot
  • Volcanic rock formations and glacier-carved terrain
  • Wildflower meadows from late July through August
  • Accessible via one of Washington's highest trailhead elevations (5,100 ft)

Overview

The Chain Lakes Loop is the most celebrated day hike in the Mt. Baker area and one of the finest alpine circuits in Washington. Starting from Artist Point at 5,100 feet, the trail circles through some of the most visually dramatic terrain accessible without technical gear in the lower 48. Mt. Baker's glaciated north face dominates the view throughout most of the route, and the volcanic landscape, scrubby heather, and blue-green lakes make it feel genuinely remote despite being reachable from Bellingham in 90 minutes.

The route passes three named lakes and the flanks of Table Mountain, a flat-topped basalt mesa formed by lava flows damming the valley. The combination of ancient basalt, active glacier, and alpine meadow in a single day hike is unusual. The trail sits within Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, one of the most visited national forests in the Pacific Northwest.

Snow lingers here late. Even in a normal year, the full loop may not be entirely clear until late July. Check current conditions through the Mt. Baker Ranger District before committing to the drive up Highway 542, especially early in the season. The conditions check guide walks through how to verify trail status before heading out.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.5: Artist Point to Table Mountain

The trail begins at the Artist Point parking area and heads west, climbing gradually along the north side of Table Mountain. This section crosses exposed volcanic rock with low vegetation and offers immediate views of Mt. Baker to the west and Mt. Shuksan to the east. The trail gains about 600 feet in the first 1.5 miles as it reaches the saddle between Table Mountain and the ridge to the north.

This section can hold snow into late July. Traction devices may help in early season, though crampons are generally not necessary once the official season begins.

Miles 1.5 to 3.5: Chain Lakes Basin

From the saddle, the trail descends into the Chain Lakes basin, reaching Iceberg Lake first. The lake sits in a cirque at the base of Mt. Baker's north slope and often holds floating ice well into summer, earning its name. The campsite at Iceberg Lake is one of the most scenic in the state. Designated camp spots are marked; stay on them to protect the fragile alpine vegetation.

From Iceberg Lake, the trail continues south past Hayes Lake and Arbuthnot Lake, remaining fairly level through this section. The volcanic ash and pumice underfoot gives the terrain a stark, moon-like quality near Iceberg Lake that transitions to lusher heather meadows closer to Hayes.

Miles 3.5 to 5.5: Herman Saddle and Bagley Lakes

The trail climbs to Herman Saddle at roughly 5,400 feet, the high point of the southern section. Views from the saddle look east toward the Coleman Pinnacles and north toward the Nooksack River valley. The descent from Herman Saddle drops into the Bagley Lakes basin, a pair of connected subalpine lakes used as a visual centerpiece for the Mt. Baker Ski Area's upper terrain.

Bagley Lakes see heavier foot traffic because they are also accessible via a short interpretive path from the Heather Meadows day-use area. In peak summer weekends, this section can feel crowded.

Miles 5.5 to 7.9: Heather Meadows to Artist Point

From Bagley Lakes, the trail climbs back to Artist Point via the Heather Meadows area, following a well-graded path past rocky outcrops and seasonal wildflower displays. The final mile of the loop offers the best views of Mt. Shuksan, whose rugged pyramid and hanging glaciers rival Mt. Baker for visual impact. The trail returns to the Artist Point parking area from the east end.

When to Visit

Mid-July through mid-September is the sweet spot for this trail. July typically brings the best wildflower displays as snowmelt exposes the heather and meadows. August is warm and dry but can bring afternoon thunderstorms; start early to clear exposed ridges before midday. September brings quieter trails, crisp air, and reliable visibility, but the days are shorter and early snow is possible by late September.

Do not attempt this trail before the road to Artist Point opens. Hiking in on snow-covered Highway 542 adds 10+ miles of pavement walking each way, which most people find unappealing.

What to Bring

  • Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters of water. Water is available at the lakes but requires treatment. Individual needs vary with temperature and exertion.
  • Layers are important even in summer. Temperatures at 5,000+ feet can drop quickly, especially with afternoon cloud buildup.
  • Traction devices (microspikes) are worth carrying for early season trips in July.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses are strongly recommended given the high elevation and reflective volcanic rock.
  • A map and compass or downloaded offline map: cell service is absent throughout this area.
  • For overnight trips, review bear canister requirements before packing food.

Practical Details

The Northwest Forest Pass is required at Artist Point (as of 2026). The America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass covers this fee. Veterans and active military may qualify for a free America the Beautiful pass; see veteran benefits for national forests for eligibility details.

A vault toilet is at the Artist Point trailhead. No flush restrooms. No water at the trailhead itself. The nearest services are in Glacier, about 24 miles west on Highway 542.

Dogs must be leashed throughout. Pack out all waste including pet waste. Campfires are prohibited above 3,500 feet.

For overnight stays, the free self-issue wilderness permit is available at the trailhead register box. Sign in and take a permit copy. Group size limits apply; check current regulations at the trailhead.

Getting There

From Bellingham, take I-5 south to Exit 255 (Burlington) or drive east on Highway 20 to Sedro-Woolley. From Sedro-Woolley, follow Highway 9 north and then Highway 542 (Mount Baker Highway) east through Glacier to the end of the road at Heather Meadows and Artist Point. The total drive is roughly 55 miles from Bellingham.

From Seattle, take I-5 north approximately 90 miles to Burlington (Exit 230), then follow signage to Highway 20 east and connect to Highway 542 via Highway 9 north at Burlington. Total drive time from Seattle is approximately 2 hours in normal traffic.

The road to Artist Point (the last several miles of Highway 542 above Heather Meadows) typically opens in early to mid-July. Check the Washington DOT website or the Mt. Baker Ranger District for current road status. Do not rely on prior-year opening dates, as snowpack varies significantly.

Trailhead Parking

Artist Point parking area at the end of Highway 542. Paved lot with 60-80 spaces. A Northwest Forest Pass is required (as of 2026). The road to Artist Point typically opens in early to mid-July.

← Back to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Chain Lakes Loop take?
Most hikers complete the loop in 4 to 6 hours. The route has moderate elevation gain spread across the full circuit, with the steepest section climbing from Iceberg Lake to Table Mountain's shoulder.
When does the Chain Lakes Loop open each year?
The trail is typically accessible from mid-July through late September. The Artist Point road is often not plowed until early to mid-July, and snow can cover portions of the trail into late July in heavy snow years.
Is the Chain Lakes Loop suitable for beginning hikers?
The loop is popular with intermediate hikers comfortable with 7-8 miles and modest elevation gain. The terrain involves some rocky sections and a few steep pitches. The high starting elevation (5,100 ft) means the physical difficulty is manageable for most reasonably fit hikers.
Are dogs allowed on the Chain Lakes Loop?
Yes, dogs are allowed but must be leashed. The area receives heavy use and leash rules are actively enforced. Pack out all waste.
Can I camp at the Chain Lakes?
Designated campsites exist at Iceberg Lake and Camp Kiser (near Hayes Lake). A free self-issue wilderness permit is required for overnight stays in Mt. Baker Wilderness (as of 2026). Campfires are prohibited above 3,500 feet.