Mount Baker via Squak Glacier

Mount Baker's 10,778-foot summit via the Squak Glacier route covers 19 miles and nearly 7,850 feet of vertical in a long but surprisingly moderate day. The route follows the Scott Paul Trail through forest, climbs through a series of knolls, and merges with the Easton Glacier route near 9,000 feet before topping out via the Roman Wall, the steepest section at roughly 30 degrees. Total round-trip time runs around 13 hours.

The approach starts with a 2.5-mile road walk from the trailhead, skis strapped to packs, before skinning begins in the forest. The sustained climbing rewards patience more than technical skill. Crevasses on this route fill in earlier than other Baker glaciers, making it one of the more straightforward paths to the summit in late spring. Roping decisions vary by party; about half the groups observed on the route climb unroped when conditions allow.

The Squak Glacier descent delivers soft corn snow in the upper elevations, transitioning to firmer conditions and eventually tough concrete-like snow in the forested lower sections. Tree skiing benefits from shade but expect pine needles mixed into the surface. The final exit follows old logging roads back to the car. This route works as a strong first volcano ski for fit parties comfortable with long days and basic glacier awareness.