Seattle | Ptarmigan Ridge Trail - Breathtaking Mountain Ridgeline Hike

📅 August 2, 2025 📍 Ptarmigan Ridge Trail - 11.8 miles (18.99 km) out & back with 2,424 ft (739 m) elevation gain (per AllTrails) 🅿️ Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Day Use Pass $5 (Accepts National Park Annual Pass/Northwest Forest Pass) The Adventure Begins! A 3-hour drive from Seattle to Artist Point Trailhead, with a quick stop at Heather Meadows Visitor Center to admire the alpine lakes and grab souvenirs. 🚗💨 Trail Highlights: 🌄 First Mile: Shares route with Chain Lakes Loop before opening up to panoramic mountain vistas—like stepping into a postcard! ❄️ Midpoint Magic: • Mt. Baker emerges dramatically, growing closer with each step • Snowmelt streams crisscross the trail through wildflower-dotted meadows • Half-frozen alpine lake with resting hikers (perfect snack spot!) 🏔️ Final Push: • Sholes Glacier comes into view (though Mt. Baker played peekaboo behind clouds ☁️) • Snowfields require careful footing—bring trekking poles! Nature's Surprises: 🐐 Mountain goats casually grazing near the trail ✨ Sunbeams piercing clouds ("God rays" illuminating the snow) 🌅 Sunset painting the peaks pink on our return Pro Tips: ✔ Start early (this is a full-day hike) ✔ Microspikes recommended for snow crossings ✔ Pack layers—weather changes rapidly at elevation ✔ Don't skip the visitor center (great last-minute restrooms!) Why This Hike Stands Out: • Minimal crowds compared to other Baker-area trails • Varied terrain (meadows, snowfields, rocky ridges) • Glacier views without technical climbing #Seattle #SeattleLife #USA #Hiking #Outdoors #Backpacking #AlpineLakes #Scenery #NaturePhotography #GlacierViews #MountBaker #PNWonderland #EpicHikes #TrailLife