High Divide Trail

High Divide Trail (Trail #630) is a long ridge walk in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, running from Excelsior Peak to Welcome Pass. The full traverse is about 10 miles (out-and-back or partial traverses vary).

Expect strenuous, steep ridge hiking with big elevation swings and stretches of heavy brush when you break out above the timberline. The trail is mapped as a ground path and is designated for foot travel (horses are also permitted).

From the west end at Excelsior Pass Trailhead, the route enters Mt. Baker Wilderness and climbs through forest on steady switchbacks. After several miles you break out above the timberline into heavy brush, reaching the meadows at Excelsior Pass.

Near Excelsior Pass you can go toward Excelsior Peak (5,699 ft to start the option; high point on the main line is 5,930 ft). From the high point the trail travels up and down for about 2.5 miles before continuing to Welcome Pass.

At Welcome Pass, you turn south and descend steeply about 2.5 miles to Welcome Pass Trailhead.

Water is limited along the divide: there is no potable water, intermittent running water near/across the trail from the Excelsior Pass Trailhead until roughly 1/2 mile before Excelsior Pass, and then generally only one creek about 1/2 mile from Welcome Pass Trailhead; a small spring about 1 mile west of Welcome Pass can dry by late August.

No campfires are allowed on the trail, and wilderness rules apply within Mt. Baker Wilderness. Group size is capped at 12, and food/scented items must be secured (bear-proof storage is required).

Access/parking is typically handled via two trailheads: Excelsior Pass Trailhead (marked spots for 7 vehicles, plus designated trailer parking July 1–Oct. 31) and Welcome Pass Trailhead (about 8 vehicles). A Northwest Forest Pass is required at Excelsior Pass Trailhead; no recreation pass is required at Welcome Pass Trailhead.

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, The High Divide: Walking the Green Horizon – AdventuresNW