Mount Baker’s dramatic peaks and lush forests make it a draw for adventure seekers, but you don’t have to break the bank to experience it. With a bit of planning, you too can enjoy everything this stunning region has to offer while keeping your wallet happy. Here’s how to do it right:
Stay Local, Save More
The closest and most affordable places to stay are in Glacier and Bellingham. Glacier, the last major town before Mount Baker, is perfect if you want to be right next to the action. There are cozy vacation rentals that feel like mountain lodges but without the steep prices of ski resorts. Bellingham, about an hour’s drive from the mountain, gives you more options for food and entertainment, but at the cost of being further away from the action. Plus, you’re close to local breweries, coffee shops, and the waterfront which means plenty to explore if you want a day off the trails.
Free and Low-Cost Adventures
Mount Baker is packed with trails that cost nothing to explore. Artist Point, when open, offers panoramic views of Mount Shuksan and Baker itself. The hike to Picture Lake is short, accessible, and completely free, as well as being ideal for stunning photos, if you couldn’t tell from the name. For a bigger challenge, try the Heliotrope Ridge Trail. It’s a bit of a climb, but you’ll be rewarded with glacier views that rival any paid tour. And if you’re into waterfalls, Nooksack Falls is just a short drive from Glacier. You can park and walk right up to the viewing area without spending a dime. It’s an easy stop on your way up the mountain.
Pack Your Own Food
Food costs can add up quickly, especially when options are limited and marked up. Your best bet is to stock up on groceries in Bellingham or maybe Glacier before heading up, then rent a place that has its own refrigerator to store your food in. Grab groceries from local markets and pack sandwiches, trail mix, and plenty of water. If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, you can cook your own meals and save even more.
Budget Gear and Rentals
If you’re missing any gear, don’t rush to buy brand-new equipment. In Bellingham, you can find secondhand shops like Backcountry Essentials, where you can score quality outdoor gear for a fraction of the cost. They also rent equipment if you only need it for a weekend. Glacier has a few local shops that rent snowshoes, skis, and other essentials during the winter months such as the well named Glacier Ski Shop.
Plan for Off-Peak Visits
Mount Baker’s trails are open year-round, and visiting outside of peak season can lead to big savings. Fall hikes are gorgeous with the Larches in October being a sight that should be on everyone’s bucket-list. Winter is ideal if you love snow sports, but even then, weekdays are far less crowded and cheaper than weekends.
Final Thoughts
Mount Baker can be luxury without coming with a luxury price tag. By staying local, exploring free trails, and making smart choices with your food and gear, you can experience everything this incredible place has to offer without stretching your budget.