Huntoon Point Snowshoe

With a starting elevation of 4,300, this tour is your best guarantee of good snow, even in a lean year.

The sojourn to Huntoon Point is a study in contrasts. It starts amid the hustle and bustle of the Mount Baker Ski Area and ends in the silence of Kulshan Ridge, where icy winds blowing off glaciers will cleanse your soul and refresh your spirit.

Park at the enormous lot adjoining the upper lodge of the ski area (4,300 feet) and head up from the southeast corner of the lot. The route is straightforward, but not without some minor huffing and puffing. You’ll be swimming against the current of downhill skiers and snowboarders, but the snow-covered high meadows will compensate for the traffic.

Take the obvious trail that veers off to the right from a downhill run, climb a steep hill and catch your breath at Austin Pass with its spectacular view of Mount Shuksan. Follow the path of the summer road as it traverses beneath a ridge, and then angle up before you come to the last big switchback below Kulshan Ridge (Artist Point). This switchback has seen slides and is the only dicey place on the route, so exercise caution. One more episode of vociferous grunting and you’re on top. Head southeast along the undulating ridge to the high spot at Huntoon Point, where basking in the winter sun can be a religious experience.

From the Point, the North Cascades reveal themselves in a most breathtaking fashion. Mount Shuksan is resplendent and the Border Peaks form a magnificent chorus line against the northern horizon. Mt. Baker, the Great White Watcher, dominates all. Don’t hurry back down; linger awhile, eat your lunch and savor the remarkable view.