Mt Baker reigns the undisputed king of the North Cascades, yet remains well west of its lesser subjects, an isolated stratovolcano that, owing to its height and westerly position, captures tremendous snowfalls that feed dozens of large glaciers. The Coleman Glacier pours down the west-northwestern flank while the Deming flows southwest from the summit crater. The route travels over portions of both glaciers to form the most frequently climbed way up the mountain, and one of the shortest. From the parking area, follow the trail past the Kulshan Cabin, then follow the climber's trail up the Hogsback to treeline and the hanging part of the Coleman Glacier beneath Heliotrope Ridge. Once on the glacier, arc up and left beneath the ridge, dodging crevasses and aiming for a 9,000-foot col east of Colfax Peak. At the col, turn northeast up a ridge that is usually free of snow by mid summer. Leave the ridge for ice and head right of a cliff band known as the Roman Wall. Once you pass this, you will arrive shortly at the broad and nearly level summit crater. At the present time (2012) the highest point is Grant Peak at the far (northeast) side of the crater. Watch for steam vents near the summit and enjoy the expansive views stretching over much of Washington and southern B.C. on a clear day. The biggest hazards on this route are hidden crevasses and summer avalanches. A NW Forest Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Class 2