Kelly Butte Lookout

About

Kelly Butte Lookout is a historic fire lookout tower situated at 5,379 feet elevation in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The original cupola cabin was constructed in 1926 and later replaced by the current L-4 cabin in 1950. On clear days, visitors are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, Mt. Stuart, and surrounding Cascade peaks. The lookout is accessed via Kelly Butte Trail 1031, a 0.7-mile hike on an old logging road followed by a steep climb through rock towers and outcroppings. A stone staircase leads to the lookout deck. The trail begins at 4,314 feet elevation, gaining over 1,000 feet to the summit. Summer months bring abundant wildflowers including beargrass. From late June through late September, the lookout is staffed by volunteers who share the history of fire lookout operations. This is a day-use hiking destination only; there is no overnight camping or cabin rental available at Kelly Butte Lookout. A Recreation Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

Directions

From Enumclaw, head east on Highway 410 for 20.7 miles past Greenwater to Forest Service Road 70 and turn left. Continue 8.3 miles to Forest Service Road 7030, turn left and proceed 4 miles to the Twin Camps junction. Turn left to stay on FS Road 7030 for 1.3 miles to the turnoff, then turn right and continue 1.3 miles to Kelly Butte Trailhead. High-clearance vehicles are recommended on FS Road 7030.