Where is Mt Baker Washington?

The Mt Baker ski area is not actually located on Mt Baker, the big volcano in the northwest of Washington State, but rather on the flank of the nearby Mt Shuksan. The ski resort is located in Whatcom County, away from civilisation at the end of Mt Baker Highway (Route 542) in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Little Glacier is the closest town, 17 miles away. Mt. Baker ski area is 53 miles east of Bellingham (1:15 hours), 86 miles southeast of Vancouver BC (2 hours drive), and 134 miles northeast of Seattle (2.5 hours).

Flights

Mt Baker is 148 miles from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and 93 miles from the Vancouver International Airport.

Whilst there is the Baker Bus that provides transport around the Whatcom County, you’ll really need a car to get around. You can rent a car from either of these airports. That's of course if you're not on a multi-resort tour such as the Pacific NW Shred Fest (see below).

Driving to Mt Baker Ski Area

From Bellingham, the Washington State Highway 542 heads east and dead ends at the Mt Baker ski area. The last part of the drive includes a series of switchbacks, so it’s a little slow going and considering the amount of snow in the area you’ll want to have a 4WD vehicle or have chains.

The Heather Meadows base area (open weekends and holidays) is 5 miles past the White Salmon base area. This is the spot to park for quicker access to the expert terrain.

Bus to Mt Baker Washington

The Baker Bus is a subsidized bus service that runs on weekends and holidays from Bellingham, with a few pick up points including Four Points Sheraton. Other pick up points are Starvin' Sams in Kendall, Visitor Center in Maple Falls and Graham's in Glacier.

On weekdays (not holidays) the bus service starts from Kendall, although if staying in Bellingham the WTZ 72x route connects with the Baker bus.

Other Ski Resorts Nearby

There aren’t any ski resorts particularly close to Mt Baker Washington, with the Vancouver ski resorts being about the closest.

Stevens Pass Ski Resort is to the south and about 170 miles by road. Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is further south again, about 210 miles by road from Mt Baker.