Alpine Lookout via Round Mountain Trail

Let's tackle an incredible Central Cascades day hike just past Stevens Pass! Offering panoramic 360-degree views of Lake Wenatchee, the entire Stuart Range (The Enchantments), and Glacier Peak, this trail features a historic, active fire lookout at the summit. The ridge walk is spectacular and open, making it a classic PNW summer hike for good reason.
Saturday is looking cloudy but we should blue skies post noon.

📍 Hike Details (from AllTrails) Trail: Alpine Lookout via Round Mountain Trail Distance: ~10.0 miles Elevation Gain: ~2,700 ft Route Type: Out & back Estimated time: 5–6
hours

Pass required: Northwest Forest Pass
⚠️ Trail notes:

*The first 2 miles climb steadily through a shaded pine forest before hitting the open ridge.

• Once on Nason Ridge, the trail is highly exposed to the sun—bring plenty of sun protection.
  *No water sources along the ridge. You must carry all the water you need for the day.
  *The summit features an active, staffed fire lookout tower. Please respect the lookout's private deck space if requested.
• Bugs can be active on the ridge and summit during peak summer—bring bug spray!

🚗 Schedule & Meeting* 7:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake Park & Ride (NE 65th St & I-5, Seattle) Carpool and depart promptly Quick stop at Sultan Bakery or Skykomish for a bathroom/snack break 9:15 AM – Arrive at Round Mountain Trailhead / start hiking 🥾 3:30 PM – Back to cars 6:30 PM – Estimated return to Green Lake P&R (later if we stop for post-hike food/drinks in Gold Bar or Monroe)
🎒 What to Bring*
✅ Hiking boots or high-traction trail runners
✅ 2–3 liters of water (completely dry trail once on the ridge—critical!)
✅ Lunch + snacks to enjoy at the lookout
✅ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (high exposure above the treeline)
✅ Windbreaker or light layers (the summit ridge can be very windy and cool)
✅ Downloaded offline map (AllTrails+ or Gaia) ✅ Bug spray
✅ $25 cash/Venmo for your driver if carpooling ✅ Change of shoes/clothes for post-hike comfort

💰 Cost Sharing* *$25 per person **suggested to cover gas, vehicle wear & tear, and forest road driving. Cash or Venmo to your driver.

**Northwest Forest Pass **(or America the Beautiful Pass) required for vehicles parking at the trailhead.

🏔️** Trail Highlights**

*** Historic Active Fire Lookout **sitting on a sheer rocky spine at 6,235 feet.
***Unobstructed panoramic views **stretching from the jagged Stuart Range to the massive ice cap of Glacier Peak.
*** Stunning Ridge Walk **along Nason Ridge with sweeping views tracking your progress the entire second half of the hike.

⚠️** Disclaimer This is a group-organized hike, NOT a guided tour**. The host is not a professional guide, trip leader, or outdoor expert. They are simply organizing a gathering of fellow hikers and are participating themselves.** You are solely responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and well-being throughout the entire event.**

whatsapp group for coordination and communication
https://chat.whatsapp.com/HGTSmYx2JyZAT1DKgd1ucP?s=cl&p=a&mlu=4