Mount Baring/Northwest Ridge

Getting There

Drive US-2 to the Baring General Store. Turn left and cross the railroad tracks. Drive to the Barclay Lake Trailhead at the end of the road.

Approach & Ascent

The trail to Barclay Lake heads down hill while just to the right of it, the abandoned road continues on level. Hike east on this road ~0.25 mile until you come to the first creek crossing. It may be dry in summer, but if running, it will be a small waterfall. There is a large cairn in the road here.

The steep, muddy trail starts up the right side of the creek but soon heads to the left. Continue up the steep boot path.  Though inconspicuous in places, the boot path goes all the way to a boulder filled basin at 4,900 ft. Stay on this trail because it goes all the way from the cars to the basin, and will save time.

From the basin head towards the gully and gap between the north and south peaks at 5,600 feet. At the gap, turn left and climb roughly north (14° bearing) toward the summit. Avoid heading too far to the left while climbing toward the summit. There is a small boulder field beneath the summit block. Climb the summit block on the left.

Notes

• At approximately 600 feet elevation gain from the start, there is often a steep, muddy, root-filled dirt area that is easy to ascend. But it could be dangerous coming down for a tired party in the dark.
• The basin above 4,900 ft is a very steep snowfield in early season and may be an avalanche hazard.
• Our climbing groups often use this route as a "Basic Alpine" difficulty climb.

• Suitable Activities: Climbing, Scrambling
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Strenuous 4, Technical 5, Basic Alpine Climb
• Length: 8.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 4,000 ft
• High Point: 6,125 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
  Skykomish Ranger District (MBSNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12