Mount Baker Panoramic Road

The Mount Baker Panoramic Road is a 96km journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Starting in Bellingham, the route takes you through Kendall and ends at Artist Point, with a recommended time of one day to complete the trip. The best time of year to take this road trip is during the summer months, when you can expect to see lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The road conditions are generally good, so the drive is comfortable and safe for all levels of drivers. This road trip offers a great experience and memories at a moderate budget, making it perfect for any driver looking for a scenic journey.

Bellingham is a city in the state of Washington, United States located close to the Canadian border. It is an ideal starting point for the Mount Baker Panoramic Road trip. Here one can visit the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention, the Whatcom Falls Park, the Fairhaven Historic District, the Maritime Heritage Park and the Whatcom Museum. For visitors arriving by air, the closest international airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Car rentals are available at this airport making it convenient for visitors to explore Bellingham and the surrounding area. Bellingham is also a great place for outdoors activities. With its proximity to the Puget Sound, visitors can enjoy a variety of water-based activities such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. It is also home to the Mount Baker Ski Area, offering a wide range of winter activities. The city also offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and running. With its beautiful scenery, Bellingham is an ideal starting point for the Mount Baker Panoramic Road trip. Here visitors can experience the beauty of nature, explore the city’s history, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For those arriving by air, car rentals are available at Vancouver International Airport making it easy to explore the area.

Welcome to the Bellingham - Kendall road trip stage! This stretch of 25mi will take you less than an hour to complete, and it's part of a larger tour. In Bellingham, you can visit the Whatcom Museum and admire its collections of art, history, and culture. You can also explore the Whatcom Falls Park and take a stroll along its trails. When you reach Kendall, you can visit the Kendall Town Park, where you can enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely walk, or even go fishing. You can also explore the Kendall Cemetery, a historic graveyard which is home to many interesting stories. These are just a few of the attractions you can find in Bellingham and Kendall. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready to start your road trip? Then let’s go! Our journey begins in Kendall, United States. Here you can take a break and visit the Kendall Indian Hammocks Park, where you can take a nature walk and explore the park’s many trails. After that, hop in the car and drive 34 miles to Artist Point, which will take you less than 1 hour. In Artist Point, you can explore the Artist Point Nature Trail, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to bring your camera! And for a unique experience, you can also visit the Artist Point Observatory, where you can observe the night sky. These are just some of the attractions you can explore during this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road!

Artist Point in the United States is a great destination for any road trip. Located on the Mount Baker Panoramic Road, Artist Point is the perfect place to end your journey. Along the way, you can take in the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the many lakes. Once you arrive at Artist Point, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Take a hike around the nearby trails for a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try mountain biking, fishing, and more. The town of Artist Point is also home to several restaurants and shops. Here, you can find locally crafted items and souvenirs to take home with you. And if you're looking for a unique experience, be sure to check out the Artist Point Observatory. Here, you can observe the night sky in a unique way. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). From there, you can rent a car and drive to Artist Point. No matter how you travel, Artist Point is the perfect destination for a road trip. With its stunning views and many activities to take part in, it's the perfect place to end your journey.

Before you set off

Embark on an awe-inspiring 96-kilometer journey along the Mount Baker Scenic Byway, which unfurls a tapestry of breathtaking vistas in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Beginning in the quaint city of Bellingham and culminating at the sublime vantage point of Artist Point, this route is a feast for the senses. The drive accommodates motorists of all skill levels and offers a variety of experiences to fit a moderate budget.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As you meander through the picturesque town of Kendall and ascend toward Artist Point, you'll be greeted by the verdant expanse of the Nooksack Valley, the towering presence of the Cascade Range, and the ethereal charm of waterfalls such as Nooksack Falls. Each curve of the Road brings a new panorama, with Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan standing as sentinels among the peaks, their glaciers glistening in the sunlight.

Best Time to Go:

The summer months, typically from July to early October, unveil the full splendor of the landscape, offering clear, snow-free Roads and unfettered access to Artist Point. This is the prime time to witness the alpine wildflower bloom and enjoy the myriad of hiking trails.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should be mindful of the changing mountain weather and potential for snow or ice outside the summer season. The byway can close in winter due to heavy snowfall, so it's important to check conditions before setting out.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Mount Baker Highway (SR 542) is not just a Road but a journey through diverse ecosystems—from coastal waters to alpine tundra. Mount Baker itself is an active stratovolcano, part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc, and holds the record for the heaviest snowfall ever recorded in one season (29 meters in 1998-99). Additionally, the Road leads to the Mount Baker Ski Area, which offers spectacular winter sports opportunities.

A good choice for:

The Mount Baker Panoramic Road is more than a drive—it's an excursion into the heart of the Pacific Northwest's wilderness. Whether you're chasing the thrill of outdoor activities or the tranquility of nature's artistry, this scenic byway is a cherished path for those seeking to immerse themselves in one of America's most stunning landscapes and create unforgettable memories.