Park Butte Lookout

Closed — Closed for winter season. Trail typically snow-covered and Forest Service roads to the trailhead impassable. Accessible approximately July through early October when snow melts and before winter shutters are closed. First-come, first-served.

About

Park Butte Lookout stands as one of the North Cascades' most accessible and scenic fire lookouts, built in 1932 and continuously maintained by dedicated Skagit Alpine Club volunteers. Accessed via a 3.8-mile moderately steep trail from the Park Butte Trailhead, the lookout sits just inside the Mount Baker Wilderness boundary at an elevation that provides commanding views of Mount Baker, the Twin Sisters range, Glacier Peak, and Mount Rainier. The lookout is available for overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis, typically accommodating multiple parties who share the space. The structure includes a metal bed platform, though visitors should bring their own sleeping gear. The surrounding alpine meadows, particularly Morovitz Meadows, burst with wildflowers during peak season and offer additional primitive camping options. Mount Baker climbing parties can be observed as small figures on the glacier, making this a prime spot for both hikers and mountaineering enthusiasts. The lookout operates seasonally, typically accessible from July through early October when snow melts and before winter storms force volunteers to close the shutters. Winter access requires significant mountaineering experience due to deep snow. Wilderness regulations apply, including a 12-person party size limit and prohibition of campfires. All waste must be packed out as no toilet facilities exist at the lookout.

Directions

From the Mt. Baker Ranger District office in Sedro-Woolley, follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left north on Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue 12 miles, then turn left onto FS Road 12. Travel 3.6 miles to the junction of FS Road 13. Stay right and follow FS Road 13 for 5.3 miles to the trailhead at road's end. Hike Park Butte Trail 603 for 3.8 miles to the lookout.

Nearby Campgrounds