Chain Lakes Loop
Circle beneath Table Mountain through flowered meadows and a chain of subalpine lakes, with views shifting between Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan.
Artwork inspired by Leo Kenney
Chain Lakes links Mazama, Iceberg, and Hayes lakes beneath the volcanic and glacial terrain of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Starting point changes the experience: Artist Point begins high and drops toward the lakes, while the visitor-center loop eventually regains about 1,200 feet on Wild Goose Trail. There is no shoreline trail circling each lake.
The popular loop is about six miles with roughly 1,700 feet of total gain and loss; an out-and-back from Artist Point to Iceberg Lake is shorter and gentler. Snow can linger into August, and the route crosses avalanche terrain in winter. Carry treated water or a filter, camp only at designated sites, and save energy for the final climb dictated by the chosen start.
- Setting
- Deming, Washington
- Trailhead pass
- Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent required
- Allow
- 2–5 hours
Quick guide
- Compare options
- Six-mile loop or gentler Iceberg Lake out-and-back
- Save energy
- The chosen start determines where the major climb falls
Build the loop
- Start
- Choose Artist Point or the lower Heather Meadows access deliberately.
- Lakes
- Distinguish Mazama, Iceberg, and Hayes rather than expecting one shoreline circuit.
- Terrain
- Prepare for snow, exposed slopes, and a steep Wild Goose finish.
- Backcountry
- Treat water, use designated camps, secure food, and keep fires out.
Good to know
Artist Point road access is seasonal, but lower Bagley Lakes access may differ. A Washington Discover Pass is not valid at this federal fee site; use the accepted federal recreation pass.
Notice these
- volcanic alpine loop beneath Mount Baker and Mount
- Artist Point
- 2–5 hours