Park Butte
Overview
This is a difficult one way trail to Park Butte in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
Note: This trail is 3.8+ mile one way (7.7 miles round trip). It has gorgeous views of the south side of Mount Baker and surrounding mountains, meadows, and mountain lakes. At the 2.5 mile point the trail splits (and is clearly marked by a sign). Continue straight to go to the lookout or veer right for an excursion up the railroad grade trail. The latter is also very worth doing, as a side trip/excursion, and takes you all the way to the base of the Easton Glacier, where many Alpine climbers camp and start their ascent to the summit of Mt Baker. Another way to extend your trip and see some different scenery is to take the Scott Paul Trail on the way back, if you have the extra time and energy, which will add about 5 miles onto your trip.
Getting Started
Arrive early to park in the trailhead parking lots. Although there is plenty of parking, it fills up quickly as many vehicles will be parked overnight due to the large number of people camped on the mountain. However, if the lots are full, there is plenty of parking along the road. There are 2 vault toilets and receptacles for garbage and for bagged feces at the trailhead, so you can dispose of all the "nasties" you pack out. A National Forest Pass is required to be displayed in your car.
Taking Children
This trail rates about a 5 for children. While the trail is well-maintained and safe enough, the length and vertical elevation gain make it extremely challenging and exhausting for young children.
Sights to See
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