Lookout Mountain Lookout — Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023

With the rain earlier in the week, my group did an abrupt change of itinerary as our selected backpacking loop was snow-covered. However, I can safely say we all returned from this two-night outing to Lookout Mountain and Monogram Lake feeling like we had been at the perfect place. Will write a separate report for Monogram, so as not to make this too long.

The trailhead is a small pullout area right off Cascade River Road. You never even have to drive on gravel. We DID come back out to some mouse poo in the vehicle from a little visitor, but, thankfully, no human break-ins.

For the first night, we headed to Lookout Mountain, hoping a Thursday evening might mean we’d get the lookout to ourselves.

The hike description and previous reports are all accurate, especially the guy who said “Bring your positive attitude,” lol. This is a leg burner. From the very start of the trail, it’s up up up with barely a moment ceasing. The trail itself is mostly in great condition… some wet areas (to be expected), some brushy slightly overgrown areas, a few large trees across the trail, but all with clear paths over or around. We all wore gaiters and were glad for the extra protection from wet brush… would recommend wearing them if you’re hiking after rain or early in the morning with heavy dew.

If you’re hoping to camp at the lookout, plan on hauling up all the water you’ll need for your stay. The nearest water source is a little creek crossing before the trail branches between the lookout and the lake, about 2 miles and 2000’ down from the lookout… you will NOT want to have to go back down for water, trust me!

We filled up supplies there and continued on our way. When the trail breaks out of the forest and you can see the lookout way ahead for the first time, it’s a great feeling! But be prepared because it’s still quite a ways away as far as climbing goes. The trail in this section is often very narrow and along a steep grade, so use caution, especially if the ground is very very dry or wet.

We ran into a hiker who had been camping in the lookout on Wednesday night - he had apparently been toying with staying a second night, but when we showed up he was INCREDIBLY gracious and offered to vacate for our group of three. If you see this, thank you, Scott! So kind of you.

Had a beautifully clear night at the lookout. Sunset was gorgeous, views were 360°, Baker and Shuksan and the Pickets and layer upon layer of amazing Cascades peaks were on full display. We saw bald eagles and some other smaller bird of prey cruising around and enjoyed watching afternoon fade into evening with sunset and alpenglow aplenty. The stars were blazing on a moonless night and sunrise was gorgeous. While the night was very windy, the lookout was surprisingly sturdy and didn’t so much as wobble.

There is a backcountry toilet to use across the way from the lookout, so yay for that. No need to pack anything out.

If you do come intending to camp in the lookout, remember that it’s all first-come, first-served. We were lucky with kindness shown to us, but the person already there did not have to leave for us. We were of course prepared to tent camp if necessary; make sure you account for that possibility if you make the trip.

The lookout itself is just gorgeous. So well cared for. There are two raised bunks with mattresses - old and not the cleanest but what do you expect?! Still great for throwing your pad and bag on. There are some provided extra blankets and such, but we didn’t use them and would advise folks to still bring your own. There is space for another couple people to set up on the floor if you had to, but groups 4+ will be getting into extreme cozy / no floor space situations. This isn’t a huge place for a large group to set up.

A bear can or hanging your food bags from the ceiling rafters is recommended. There are definitely some mice who live in the lookout too!

All in all, a truly special experience. We plan on sending a donation to the group that keeps it up, and please consider doing the same if you visit as well. The addresses can be found clearly posted in the lookout and I’m including a photo with that info, too. This is a lovely place that only exists because of those who put their time, money, and efforts into its upkeep.