I've had a 12-hours long Airbnb Experience with Mia and Nicholas going on Chain Lakes Loop Trail. It was about a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle, around 5 hours hiking (we did not hesitate to stop and take pictures, had a fabulous lunch with the view, and I even swam in the lake!).
One of my Airbnb guests, Mia, asked me to take her on the best trail here in PNW. She was spending her summer in Seattle, traveling from really hot Texas, and wanted to see something refreshing. She was open to a full-day experience, so I started my research.
Everything kept pointing to the Chain Lakes Loop in Washington. It is one of the area's most popular trails — highly rated on AllTrails with over 8,000 reviews. The trail is located in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest near Mount Baker, and the official starting point is commonly searched as Chain Lakes Loop trailhead Washington 542 Deming WA.
After the Hike
Rock and Rye Oyster House
$3–$4 Oysters
After finishing the Chain Lakes Loop hike, we stopped at Rock and Rye Oyster House in Bellingham — the perfect way to end an incredible day in the mountains. Known for fresh Pacific Northwest oysters, creative cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients.
Why I Chose Chain Lakes Loop for My Airbnb Experience
I was originally going to take just Mia since my typical experiences are about 5 hours long. But then Nicholas messaged me on Airbnb asking if I offer more challenging experiences, and he was right on time — so he joined us!
And honestly? Chain Lakes Loop WA was by far the best trail I've been to in PNW.
Chain Lakes Loop Trail Overview
It's about 6.2 miles long, around 1,700 ft elevation gain, and considered moderate. But what makes it special is that it feels like a new hike every mile — with alpine lakes, ridgelines, snow patches, wildflowers (late July–August is peak season), and views of Mount Baker almost the entire time.
You can hike it either way: clockwise or counterclockwise.
- Distance: 6.2 miles (loop)
- Elevation gain: ~1,700 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Drive from Seattle: ~2.5 hours
Chain Lakes Loop Parking and Trailhead Tips
If you are coming with a group, I would highly recommend leaving one car at one parking lot and another car at the second parking lot near Artist Point. The section between the two parking lots is the hardest part. And if you are like me — hiking for the views and not the workout — come in two cars and save yourself a really big booty workout.
If you're googling Chain Lakes Loop directions or Chain Lakes Loop map, just enter the trailhead on WA-542 toward Artist Point.
Best Time to Hike Chain Lakes Loop
The best time to go on Chain Lakes Loop near Mount Baker is usually late July through September. Snow can stay there until mid-summer, so always check Chain Lakes Loop weather before going. Mountain weather changes fast.
What to Bring for Chain Lakes Loop
Definitely bring:
- 👙 Swimsuit
- 🏖️ Towel
- 💧 Lots of water (or a filter)
There are many water sources like small springs and streams along the trail. I brought one bottle of water, and it was definitely not enough — I ended up drinking from a natural spring. So if you're planning Chain Lakes Loop backpacking or a long day hike, bring extra water or a filter.
Chain Lakes Loop Camping and Backpacking
Yes, you can also do Chain Lakes Loop camping and make it an overnight trip. It's very popular for backpacking in summer. As for tickets, there's no entry ticket for the hike itself, but you usually need a Northwest Forest Pass for parking.
Where to Eat After Hiking Chain Lakes Loop
After we finished the trail, we stopped at Rock and Rye Oyster House in Bellingham. Highly recommend, especially after such a long hike! They had an oyster special and were one of the few restaurants open until 9:45 pm.
