I am realizing that almost all the hikes on Mt. Baker Highway have at least one thing in common. Goat Mountain trail is no different. The beginning of the trail is heavily wooded, shady, steep, and uninteresting. Save for the few things like evidence of old fires that might be found strewn about, I constantly find myself thinking, “When will the trees end?”

Of course, that is never good enough for me when there is a mountain for climbing. Heading up Goat Mountain was difficult on a nice 40-degree slope covered in snow. The climb is a lot of fun but I would like to see what it is like in the summer. I suppose it remains for me to find out soon.

Due to the sun setting and the snow softening under my feet, I was unable to summit. I have plenty of time being in college and I am sure I will return soon for another shot.

Goat Mountain trail has been on my redo list for quite a while. I had tried once in college, failed to summit due to snow conditions, and promised myself I would come back. Somehow that ended up taking me 4 years. Goat Mountain trail starts off right on the side of forest road 32. For the first several miles it is a set of forested switchbacks. It is easy to follow but steep and the lack of scenery can become mind-numbing. Once the views start to open up around 5100 Ft the trail is as stunning as I remember. There is a small bench above here on the trail you soon arrive at. You could stop here for an excellent lunch spot and some incredible views.

If you choose to continue to the summit of Goat Mountain the time of year will influence how difficult that is. During summer, you will have a solid trail to follow. If you are doing it in the winter like I was on this day then it will most likely be a snow slope. There is also a way to get to east Goat Mountain but that involves a traverse I have not completed yet.