Park Butte Lookout Trail - Spectacular Mt. Baker Views
Details
We'll hike Park Butte Lookout Trail with incredible views of Mt. Baker and its glaciers on our way to an historic fire lookout. There will be unobstructed panoramic views of Baker, the Twin Sisters, and the rest of the North Cascades, as well as wildflower-filled alpine meadows and a stunning variety of mushroom species to look for.
We'll be making friends, staying fit, being polite and having fun!
We will first meet at the Wilburton P&R. Carpooling is encouraged but you are also welcome to meet us at Park Butte Lookout Trailhead (48.707, -121.812).
Hike Info
Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
Length: 7.9 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2100 feet
Highest Elevation: ~5,450 feet
Location: Near Mt. Baker
Road: The last mile of (unpaved dirt roads) NF-12 and NF-13 is very rough.
Parking Permit
A Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. See https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes
Attendance
We try to keep our group size to around 10 - 20 (more or less) as a courtesy to other hikers on the trail, and to reduce crowds and cars in the parking lot. The Going list may have a larger number to accommodate no-shows.
Folks on the Wait list may not attend until they are moved to the Going list. When folks drop from the Going list, people are added from the Wait list.
Carpooling
We will limit total attendees while drivers are selected from the Wait list. Drivers will be placed first as Going, and then we will fill with passengers as space allows, so everyone who comes to the P&R has a ride to the trail.
Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse a minimum of $40 if one passenger, $20 for two passengers, and $15 for three passengers. Cash, Venmo, or Zelle.
What to Bring
Athletic and winter clothing & rain gear - Weather can change in the mountains!
Hiking shoes/boots
Water, snacks & lunch
Sun protection
Bug spray
Ten hiking essentials
Schedule
7:00 am: Meet at the Wilburton P&R (OK to bring morning coffee and breakfast).
7:15 am: Drive to trailhead directions
~ 9:45 am: Arrive at trailhead
~ 5-6 hours of hiking with stops for food, photos
~ 4:00 pm: Back at trailhead
-> Stop for food / coffee on way back (optional)
~ 6:30 pm: Arrive back at Wilburton P&R (later if stopping)
Attendees: Be sure to update your status if things change so others can attend.
Disclaimer: When you RSVP and attend this hike you are accepting that you are fully aware that you are responsible for your own safety. You agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify the hike host from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from any injury or damage. Always be aware of your own physical abilities and go on this hike prepared.