Yellow Aster Butte Trail #686.1
| Trail Uses |  |
Length | 2.1 miles one-way (3.6 miles from Tomyhoi Trailhead) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season of Use | Summer/Fall | Beginning Elevation | 5200 feet (3600 feet at trailhead) |
| Visitor Use | Heavy | Elevation Gain/Loss | +400 feet/-200 feet (+2000 feet/-200 feet from trailhead) |
| Map(s) | Green Trails: Mt. Shuksan #14 USGS: Mt. Larrabee |
Level of Difficulty | More Difficult |
Trailhead Access:
From the Glacier Public Service Center, follow the Mt. Baker Highway 542 for 12 miles to Forest Service Road #3065 (Twin Lakes Road). The road is located on the left hand side of the highway just beyond the Department of Transportation's Shuksan maintenance facility. Turn left on Twin Lakes Road and continue approximately 4.5 miles to the Tomyhoi Lake/Yellow Aster Butte Trailhead.
Description, Attractions & Considerations:
The Yellow Aster Butte Trail traverses the south facing slopes of the eastern end of the High Divide, winding in and out of small drainages. Various wildflowers such as anemone, aster, paintbrush and fireweed are found along the trail, along with interesting rock formations carved by glaciers and worn by weather. Spectacular views include of Mt. Baker, Border Peaks, Mt. Larrabee and the western portion of the High Divide.
Start on Tomyhoi Lake Trail #686 as the trail switchbacks through avalanche chutes and thick brush. Then enter timber and continue gaining elevation until the trail breaks out to a flat bench in a meadow. The junction with Yellow Aster Butte Trail #686.1 is about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Turn left at the junction and contour around the south side of Yellow Aster Butte.
The trail ends with a 200-foot descent on a series of steep switchbacks and narrow tread to Yellow Aster Meadows, where glaciers have carved numerous small tarns (lakes). There is also evidence of past mining activity. The meadow areas are extremely fragile. Camp on bare ground, sedge or rock. Do not walk or camp in heather.
There is no camping allowed along the Yellow Aster Butte Trail #686.1 or on the buttes. Camping is allowed only at established sites in the Yellow Aster Meadow area. No toilets are available at camps. Please dispose of waste properly. The trail is within the Mt. Baker Wilderness. In keeping with wilderness regulations, party size is limited to 12. No fires are allowed. Digging, damaging or removing any historic site, artifact or property is prohibited.A Northwest Forest Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.