Sitting at the end of the Mount Baker Highway, past Heather Meadows and Picture Lake, is Artist Point, one of the most scenic spots in all of Washington. Offering sweeping views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, it is the go-to spot for any sightseers or photographers that visit the area.
This beauty comes with its own difficulties though. Since the road to Artist Point isn’t maintained in winter, and heavy snow often buries it under 20 to 30 feet of snow, the road to it is only open seasonally. Knowing when it’s open can save you a long drive and blocked access.
When is Artist Point Open?
In most years, Artist Point opens in July. Sometimes it opens in late June when snowfall has been light, but that’s rare. In heavy snow years, it can be closed till early August. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) monitors conditions and clears the road once the snowpack allows so make sure to keep an eye on their website for that!
The closing date is usually in October, though an early storm can shut it down in September. Once the first significant snow arrives, crews close the gate that allows access to the road until the point thaws again the next summer.
Can I Visit Artist Point Outside the Open Season?
Yes! But not with your car. Once the road closes for the winter, Artist Point becomes a backcountry destination for snowshoers and skiers. The journey from the ski area parking lot to the point is about 4 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. It’s a beautiful winter trek, but not one to take lightly. Deep snow, avalanche terrain, and rapidly changing weather mean you need the right skills, equipment, and avalanche awareness training.
If you’re not up for the winter approach, you can still enjoy plenty of snowshoeing and sledding near the Mount Baker Ski Area without committing to the full trip.
When Should I Go To Artist Point?
If your goal is to drive all the way to Artist Point, plan for mid-July through early October. If you want to be extra safe before you go, you can check the WSDOT Mount Baker Highway page for current road status, or Weather forecast for the Mount Baker Ski Area. Doing this should guarantee a good trip.
Part of what makes Artist Point special is how fleeting it is. For just a few months each year, you can stand at the edge of the parking lot and see two iconic peaks, high ridgelines, and the sweeping North Cascades all in one view. Then the snow returns, the road disappears, and the mountains are left to the wind and silence until summer comes again.
If you time your visit right, you’ll understand why this place is a favorite for anyone who loves Mount Baker’s scenery.