Sunset Series

The trails connecting the peaks, ridge-lines, glaciers, and summits of the Nooksack Valley are some of the most stunning and accessible terrain in the North Cascades. Interspersed with our larger summer adventures Aspire will be leading a few outings to a selection of some of our favorite trails. These runs are low key affairs, include lots of hiking, and all paces are welcome. We BBQ after each run and always get home after dark.

Excelsior Ridge

To gain the ridge runners first climb 3,500’ to the crest of Excelsior Peak, which is worth the effort because the next 8 miles of single track follows the rolling ridgeline serving up persistent views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan. Not to be missed this run doles out inexhaustible amounts of wild blueberries and frequent 360* panoramas of the North Cascades.

Itinerary

Each Sunset run follows the same basic itinerary. Times for arriving at trailheads and getting back to Bellingham vary by destination.

3:00pm: Meet in Bellingham

Each trip begins in the Bellingham Safeway Parking Lot (Address: 1297 East Sunset Dr.) We’ll do introductions, arrange carpooling, and head for the hills.

4-5:00pm: Trailhead Arrival, Run

Aspire crew travels with each group. Someone is always at the front leading the way and someone is always at the rear “sweeping” behind the group. Distances and elevation gain/loss vary by destination.

9-10:00pm: BBQ at the Trailhead

Aspire will provide meat/veggie burgers and cold drinks. All participants are encouraged to bring a side/salad/dessert to share!

11:00pm-12:00am: Return to Bellingham

Gear

Summers in the North Cascades in their ideal are shorts and t-shirts affairs. However, inclement weather or a twisted ankle can quickly sour an evening jaunt. Each runner should carry: a light wind/rain shell, snacks, water, a headlamp, an emergency bivy blanket, warm hat/gloves, and personal first aid supplies. Each runner should have a warm jacket, hat, and dry clothes in a finish “drop” bag.

On the trail Aspire crew will have emergency communication devices, first aid kits, and water filters on hand for emergencies. At the trail head we’ll have a large. water jug and all the BBQ supplies.

Event's current local time: 6:20 PM PT