So, I wanted to take the boyfriend on his first overnight backpack trip EVER! How exciting! Luckily, I had just the spot in mind, having just been to Yellow Aster Butte. When Kim and I had been there earlier, we had decided that the flats near the Butte, sprinkled with lovely tarns and conversation trails, and perfectly situated for sweeping views, would be a PERFECT spot to camp.
(See my earlier post for more details about Yellow Aster Butte)
Again, this was a taxing hike for the first 2 miles, especially with overnight packs on, but after that, the views start opening up, and rewards start rolling in. Wildflowers, blueberries, and stunning views of Baker & Shuksan, getting better by the minute. It's quite hard to contain yourself, with all of the rewards coming in.
We did camp down among the tarns, just passed the turnoff to ascend the very top of the Butte, and had a spectacular evening. Great weather, warm enough, blueberries abounding, and amazing sunsets and sunrises, setting off Mt Baker and Shuksan beautifully!
This is literally one of the most beautiful spots I have ever camped in the North Cascades, hands down. I definitely recommend going on a clear day so that you will get your views, and if you're looking for wildflowers, go near the end of July (the wildflowers were starting to be overwith). However, blueberries were starting, and I have read that the fall colors later on are worth seeing as well!
If I lived up near Bellingham and this wasn't a 4 hr drive, I'd probably do this hike every weekend, it's that good!
