A trip around scenic Picture Lake makes for a great addition to any of the other hikes in the area.

The road around the lake is one way, so if you miss the parking area on the lake’s east shore, you are going to have to drive back around the loop.

Bring a camera. The alpine vista of Mount Shuksan is one of the most photographed scenes in North America. The image of the mountain’s reflection upon the waters of the lake can be found on everything from calendars to postcards.

Binoculars can also be useful to check out the mountains.

The trail is designed for persons of all abilities. Interpretive signs tell a portion of the story behind the scenery.

There are several dock-like viewpoints along the route, allowing visitors close access to the lake without having to stomp on delicate plant life.

Forest regulations do not allow wading or swimming in Picture Lake.

Distance: Half mile

Destination: Loop trail

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation gain: None

Getting there: East on Highway 542 (Mount Baker Highway) to milepost 54.1, about 21 miles east of Glacier Public Service Center. The lake is just below Mount Baker Ski Area’s upper lodge at an elevation of 4,100 feet.

The Trek: After finding a place to park, locate the trailhead.

The trail begins as pavement. The gray ribbon winds its way through patches of heather and thickets of huckleberries.

It’s a short distance before the first viewpoint is reached. Dive left and walk onto a wooden pier above the shimmering water. Looming above are the icy flanks of Mount Shuksan.

After taking in the views, return to the main trail and proceed left. Reaching another junction, proceed left to reach another viewpoint. The pavement leads onto a pier above the water and to a pair of signs.

The sign “Glacier Sculptors” explains the powerful forces at work on the flanks of Mount Shuksan: “The present 300-foot thick glaciers are small remnants of massive ice sheets that periodically covered much of North America over the last 2 million years.”

The other sign explains the formation of Picture Lake: “Many years ago, ice glaciers moved through the area, gouging out hollows in the lava bedrock as they flowed down into the valley below. Over time, the glaciers retreated to the high peaks, leaving behind water-filled depressions like the lake before you.”

Back on the main trail, go left, walking through sporadic mountain hemlock and Pacific silver fir trees. The trees are home to several species of birds while picas and squirrels scurry about in the underbrush.

The trail skirts the lake’s north end, making its way through meadows of wildflowers. The alpine views continue to improve.

Cross a small stream and a section of rock. Water has all but washed away the topsoil, exposing the black, volcanic substrate.

Reach a “Y” and proceed left. This spur leads to another viewpoint complete with a bench. It lies directly across from the first viewpoint. Returning to the main trail, go left, venturing through a section of swamp complete with hordes of mosquitoes. Cross a footbridge and return to the road.

If you are looking for another photo possibility, cross the busy road and venture to Highwood Lake. The reflections of Mount Shuksan are just as good, if not better, from this vantage point.

After filling the memory card, trek back down the road and return to the rig.