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The lookout is locked and closed to public use from November through May. It reopens in June or when conditions allow. Steep snowfields on the trail typically require an ice axe well into July. The Twin Lakes Road may be impassable early in the season, requiring parking at the Tomyhoi Lake Trailhead and adding 2 miles to the hike.

Air Quality Alert issued July 20 at 12:48PM PDT by NWS Seattle WA

12:48 PM — July 22nd, 9:00 AM

An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the Northwest Clean Air Agency until 9 AM PDT Wednesday. An Air Quality Alert has been issued for Skagit and Whatcom Counties, effective immediately through Wednesday July 22nd at 9am due to expected wildfire smoke from Canadian wildfires. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels may reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. When air quality is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, sensitive groups should take steps to reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air. Everyone should watch for symptoms as a sign to reduce exposure. For current air quality conditions and additional information visit https://nwcleanairwa.gov

Air Quality Alert issued July 20 at 10:23AM PDT by NWS Seattle WA

10:23 AM — July 22nd, 9:00 AM

An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the Northwest Clean Air Agency until 9 AM PDT Wednesday. An Air Quality Alert has been issued for Skagit and Whatcom Counties, effective immediately through Wednesday July 22nd at 9am due to expected wildfire smoke from Canadian wildfires. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels may reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. When air quality is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, sensitive groups should take steps to reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air. Everyone should watch for symptoms as a sign to reduce exposure. For current air quality conditions and additional information visit www.nwcleanairwa.gov

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Alcohol Prohibitions

This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.

About

Winchester Mountain Lookout is a historic fire lookout tower built in 1935, perched high in the Mt. Baker Wilderness with sweeping views of the Northern Picket Range and Canadian Peaks. The structure is maintained by Mt. Baker Hiking Club volunteers and offers a unique overnight shelter experience for backcountry enthusiasts willing to make the steep hike. The lookout operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations available. Two nights is the recommended maximum stay. Access is via Winchester Mountain Trail #685, which gains approximately 1,300 feet in elevation. Steep snowfields on the trail typically require an ice axe well into July. The Twin Lakes Road may not be drivable to the trailhead; when impassable, hikers must park at the Yellow Aster/Tomyhoi Lake Trailhead, adding 2 miles to the hike. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient, bringing sleeping bags, food, water, lanterns, and fuel. A propane stove is supplied at the lookout. There are no restrooms or potable water available. Campfires are prohibited under wilderness regulations. Food must be stored in provided rodent-proof containers, and all garbage must be packed out. A tent is advisable in case the lookout is already occupied.

Directions

Take Mt. Baker Highway (State Route 542) to Twin Lakes Road #3065 in the North Fork Nooksack area. Drive Twin Lakes Road to the Winchester Mountain Trailhead. If Twin Lakes Road is impassable, park at the Yellow Aster/Tomyhoi Lake Trailhead and add approximately 2 miles to the hike. Access the lookout via Winchester Mountain Trail #685 (hikers only).

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed No
Toilets No
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (360) 854-2553

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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