THREE FINGERS

About

Three Fingers Lookout is one of Washington's most dramatic fire lookout destinations, a small wood-frame cabin perched dramatically atop the south peak of Three Fingers Mountain at approximately 6,850 feet. Built between 1930 and 1932 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 14x14-foot structure offers panoramic views of Cascade peaks including Glacier Peak, Mount Baker, and Mount Rainier on clear days. The journey to Three Fingers is not for casual hikers. The 7.5-mile trail gains over 4,000 feet and the final half-mile requires mountaineering expertise and equipment. Visitors must traverse a section of Three Fingers Glacier, complete a rocky scramble, and ascend steep exposed ladders bolted to the rock face. Ice axes, crampons, and climbing experience are essential for safe passage. Overnight stays in the lookout are free and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no amenities at the lookout itself. Goat Flat, along the approach, offers established camping but becomes crowded on summer and fall weekends. Fires are prohibited from Saddle Lake to Three Fingers, and camping is not allowed within 200 feet of Saddle Lake or Bandana Lakes.

Directions

From Granite Falls, take the Mountain Loop Highway east for approximately 7 miles to the Tupso Pass Road (Forest Road 41) junction. Turn left onto FR 41 and continue approximately 18 miles to the Three Fingers trailhead. Note: FR 41 is currently closed to vehicles due to bridge damage at mile 8.