Excelsior Peak Hike Register

Date and Time:
Sat, Aug 16, 2025; 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM  (Pacific)

Organized By: Mt Baker Group

Location: Damfino Lakes Trailhead, NF-31, Washington, USA

Map | Directions

Event Organizers:
Nick Engelfried
   nicke.activism@gmail.com
   (360) 941-3085

Featuring conifer forest, alpine meadows, and stunning views of the North Cascades, the trail to Excelsior Peak is well worth the at times strenuous climb to the top. While taking our time on the way up we'll pause to talk about the forest and alpine environments through which we're passing and to note any interesting plants, animals, or fungi. We'll especially keep an eye out for fireweed, valerian, alpine heather, and other wildflowers. The hike will also include time to discuss opportunities to take action on behalf of wild places. This trail is rated by All Trails as challenging. Well-behaved dogs are welcome.

The round-trip hike is a little under six miles and involves about 1,500 feet of elevation gain. It begins at the Damfino Lakes Trailhead on Canyon Creek Road, a dirt Forest Service road that is bumpy and potholed in places and is best attempted in a vehicle with good clearance. Those interested in carpooling can meet at 8:30am in front of the Sunset Square Safeway to arrange vehicles and drivers. Note that Northwest Forest pass or equivalent public lands pass is required to park at the trailhead. 

After setting out from the trailhead we'll soon pass Damfino Lakes, then head up through conifer forest keeping an eye out for wildflowers. We'll emerge above the tree line into beautiful meadows for the last stretch of the hike up the peak. Amazing views of Kulshan and Mount Shuksan are visible from the top on clear days. 

Be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a packed lunch, and plenty of water (see recommendations for the 10 Essentials of hiking here). Trekking poles are a good idea if you use them. There is a pit toilet bathroom at the trailhead and another one near the pass, but no potable water. We'll be following Leave No Trace principles. 

Although 4pm is the estimated finish time, we could finish slightly earlier or later--so best not to make plans that depend on being done at exactly that time. This qualifies as a backcountry hike, and all participants will be required to sign a liability waiver and fill out a medical form. 

Directions: From Bellingham, take Sunset Drive/542 east as it becomes Mount Baker Highway. Just past the community of Glacier, turn left on National Forest Road 31. Follow this road to Damfino Lakes Trailhead.

COVID-19 - No vaccine or tests are required for this outing. You may be walking with people who are vaccinated and unvaccinated. You are welcome to wear a mask if it makes you comfortable. Please stay home if you are sick or experiencing any COVID symptoms.

Waiver - All participants in Sierra Club activities are required to sign a standard Participation Agreement when rsvping or at the trailhead. You can review the agreement form at the trailhead or here. 

Medical - If you have any medical issues you feel the leaders should know about, you must inform them before the start of the trip. You will be required to fill out a medical form (emergency contact, allergies, medications, and general medical history) available here, and are strongly encouraged to email it to the trip leader prior to the hike. Your medical information will be referred to or passed along to emergency responders if you have a medical emergency during the walk. It is a good idea to keep a copy in your pack.

 

Level: Strenuous ()

Cost: Free

Bring: Sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothes (including sun protection), lunch, and plenty of water. If you use trekking poles, bring them.

Cancellation Policy: Steady rain cancels

Learn more about about the route on Washington Trails Association