Bell Pass Trail - No. 603.3

This moderate trail starts at the headwaters of the South Fork of the Nooksack River and traverses the Sisters Divide to Mazama Park and the Park Butte Trail at the base of Cathedral Crag.

The first 2 miles to Bell Pass are a gentle climb through mature, mid-elevation forest. The sound of water is always present as the trail circles around the headwaters of Bell Creek. Enjoy great views of Loomis Mountain on fair weather days, and look for sign of the Nooksack Elk herd.

Bell Pass Trail enters the Mt. Baker Wilderness, limiting party size to 12 persons.

The trail is open for stock use from August 1 to November 1 and open to llamas all year long.

A Northwest Forest Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.

From the Mount Baker Ranger District in Sedro-Woolley, follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road #11). Continue for 12 miles to Forest Service Road #12 and turn left. Travel Road #12 for 14 miles and look for a sign indicating a left hand turn for the trailhead. Turn left on a short spur road, which leads to Pioneer Horse Camp and the Elbow Lake Trailhead. The trailhead is located on the right (north) side of the parking area. Hike the Elbow Lake Trail about 3.5 miles to the start of the Bell Pass Trail.

From the Mount Baker Ranger District in Sedro-Woolley, follow State Route 20 east for 17 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road #11). Continue for 12 miles to Forest Service Road #12 and turn left. Travel Forest Service Road #12 for about 17 miles to the end. Hike the Elbow Lake Trail to the start of the Bell Pass Trail in less than a mile.

Note: F.S. Road #12 is closed and gated from Nov. 1 - July 1 at Wanlick Pass, 5.4 miles before Pioneer Camp and 8.5 miles before the end of Road #12. To protect elk breeding habitat, no motorized vehicles are allowed beyond this point during these closure dates.