Skyline Divide

Two miles of forest, then you pop onto a ridge of meadow that runs straight at the volcano. August up here is the best flower show north of Rainier.

Why choose this trail

An open ridge when road access is confirmed. The trail climbs forest before emerging on a long meadow ridge aimed at Mount Baker. Most hikers choose their own turnaround along the divide.

Landscape & habitat

The ridge's deep snowpack and brief growing season produce a concentrated summer flower bloom. Open meadow also makes the route sensitive to widening and campsite damage.

Access, passes & rules

Forest-road access has experienced long closures and repairs; confirm that the road and trailhead are legally reachable before the drive. A Northwest Forest Pass is normally used when open.

Conditions & hazards

Do not trust an old map over a current closure. On the ridge, exposure, snow and little water can make a simple out-and-back serious.