Park Butte Lookout, Mt Baker

Wanna stare straight into the glory of Washington State's 3rd tallest mountain?
Then hike up to Park Butte lookout for a long stare off!!!! 

Mt Baker from Park Butte Lookout trail

Last weekend was cold but also clear so i headed up to the North Cascades for a quick day hike. 
Park Butte Lookout trail runs 3.6 miles long with the final destination obviously being an old fire lookout. 

Red Breasted Sapsucker
Sphyrapicus ruber

The views are outstanding!!! Mt Baker dominates the northern skies while endless mountains nestle in along the skyline to the east and south. Glacier Peak can be scene along with the rugged Picket Range. To the south the Twin Sister Mountains should catch another long stare. 

The Twin Sisters from Park Butte Lookout

Park Butte Lookout is not used anymore as an lookout but rather a place to stay for anyone who loves endless stars and peaks to gaze at. Its first come first serve. Inside the lookout is seems as if the rangers just got up and left. Your the ranger now. If your fortunate to eyeball  clear skies, a fire is hard to miss.

Mt Baker(r) Colfax Peak(m) and Lincoln Peak(l)

The trailhead has plenty of parking which is great but not if your looking for solitude, come early. There's plenty of wilderness campsites below the lookout but bring a tent just in case the lookout is full. This trail is still 5 stars for all you outdoor hermits!!

Looking east into the Picket Range

Park Butte Lookout

Looking southeast from the lookout

Websites
Mt baker snoqualmie National forest site
PDF
National Historic Lookout registar
Skagit Alpine Club

Trail #: 603
Best use: backpacking, day hiking, mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding
Miles: 7.2 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 2,100 ft gain
Map: Green trails 13S
Land: Mt Baker National Recreation Area
Permit required: NW forest pass for parking lot
Wilderness campsites: Cathedral camp .8 miles from lookout
Regulations: No fires
Parking Lot amenities: Toilets, plenty of parking, campsites
Wildlife scene: Red caped sapsucker, chickadee
Water along trail: Yes