2004-07-21: Lunch Stop
We met our friends, the Doolittles, at Birch Bay. Since they had never driven the scenic Mt. Baker Highway, which winds along the North Fork of the Nooksack River and ends at Artist Point, we decided now was the time. As we remembered, it was a beautiful drive with great spots to stop and have a picnic lunch.
2004-07-21: Mt. Baker
Upon reaching the summit at Artist Point, one has the most incredible 360-degree view. We were rather surprised that many of the pathways were still covered in snow - who would think to bring boots in July!! Looking one way, we saw Mt. Baker (10,781 feet)...
2004-07-21: Mt. Shuksan
...and turning around we had an awesome view of Mt. Shuksan (9131 feet)
2004-07-21: Picture Lake
On our return trip, we made a stop at beautiful Picture Lake where we were treated with an incredible reflection of Mt. Shuksan in the lakes still waters.
2004-07-21: International Border
Blaine is the last town in the USA before crossing into Canada. Peace Arch Park actually crosses the border and is a place where one can walk from one country to another without going through customs. We thought it was interesting that this stand of trees marks the international border. The houses you see in the photo are actually in Canada!
2004-07-21: Peace Arch
Located in the grassy median strip between traffic lanes is Peace Arch.
2004-07-21: USA Flag
On the American side of the arch is this flower flag...
2004-07-21: Canadian Flag
...and the Canadian side has its flag.
2004-07-21: Sculpture Exhibit
Scattered around Peace Park was an International Sculpture Exhibit. The many sculptures had been created by both American and Canadian artists. Flora Grande, made of recycled steel, stainless steel and copper, depicts abundant foliage, giant cedars and ever-flowing water with a giant flower.
2004-07-21: Flowers Everywhere
The flower bed competition between the two countries was evident. We didn't care - they were all there for our enjoyment and enjoy them we did.
2004-07-23: Mt. Baker View
Today we took the jeep up a dirt road to Mt. Baker Vista. Here we had an opportunity to view Mt. Baker from the other side.
2004-07-23: Glaciers
We were amazed to see the glaciers on this side of Baker. The blue color brought back memories of the glaciers we saw in Alaska.
2004-07-23: Cascades
There were incredible cascades flowing everywhere.
2004-07-23: Berry Picker
Here in Lynden, a neat little Dutch community, it was raspberry season. We were intrigued with the berry pickers being used on the farms. We decided that even though a lot of berries are lost this way, it must still be more economical. It was interesting watching the process.
2004-07-24: Concert
The North Cascades Concert Band was performing at Blaine Marine Park. We joined our new friends from Hemet the Marines and the Stephens for an evening of music. The park was located near the border so we had a view of Peace Arch while we enjoyed the music.
2004-07-24: Intermission
The boys took advantage of intermission by heading for the blackberry bushes. Nothing like a handful of fresh berries. The berry cobbler season has begun!!
2004-07-24: Birch Bay Sunset
Those of you who know me well have probably been wondering where my famous sunsets are. Returning from the concert, we were treated to this awesome sky. I took so many photos of it, I had trouble choosing which one to put up on the page.