Mount Baker rises over northern Washington State like a mirage, dominating the landscape like few mountains in the United States. On a clear day, it is visible from as far away as Vancouver, British Columbia, and Tacoma, Washington. This immense volcano is a study in superlatives: it is the third-highest peak in the state, holds the world record for snowfall in a season (95 feet ), and is the second-most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. The mountain also played a dominant role in the history of the region, having served as a beacon to seafarers and a lure for men in search of gold, timber, and adventure.