- Big Bear Mountain is among the western-most peaks of the cascades, which makes it clearly visible along the skyline from many locations around the northern Puget Sound (Everett, Marysville, Arlington). It is located approximately 1.3 miles SSE of Three Fingers, and is the closest peak to the south of Three Fingers. It is a fairly remote peak within the Boulder River Wilderness area and is not very easy to access. This is why it is seldom climbed. On the plus side, if you are looking for solitude you can be just about guaranteed to not see anyone else on this peak! The route has it all; a road walk, brush bash, large creek crossing, old growth forest, steep climb, and (usually) a steep and somewhat exposed summit scramble on snow.
- Mountain Loop Highway (summitpost.org)
The Mountain Loop Highway is home to many popular cascade hikes and climbs. There is no doubt that the scenic beauty of the Mountain Loop Highway Peaks far exceeds that of the I-90 corridor Peaks. There is more diversity in wildlife, foliage, and summit blocks are generally more rugged and exposed. The Mountain Loop Highway is a well kept secret among the locals of Washington State with the exception of Mount Pilchuck, trails are seldom crowded and tranquil isolation is the norm.
- Van Zandt, Washington (Wikipedia)
Van Zandt is an unincorporated community in Whatcom County, in the U.S. state of Washington. A post office called Van Zandt was established in 1892, and remained in operation until 1955. J. M. Van Zandt, an early postmaster, gave the community his name.