Desolation Peak

Desolation Peak rises to 6,102 feet and offers views of Ross Lake, Hozomeen Mountain, and the surrounding North Cascades summits. The mountain sits within the park's backcountry and can be reached by a steep trail from Ross Lake Resort.

A fire lookout station was built on the summit in 1932 to monitor forest fires across the North Cascades. This structure became an important part of fire management efforts throughout the region.

Writer Jack Kerouac worked here as a fire lookout in 1956, documenting his solitary months in his novel Desolation Angels. His time on the peak gave the mountain literary importance beyond its natural setting.

The climb involves significant elevation gain over a steep route, making an early start advisable. Mountain weather can change rapidly, so proper gear and preparation are important for safety.

The cabin on the summit retains its original L-4 ground design from the 1930s and remains one of Washington's few active fire lookouts today. This structural continuity across nearly a century makes it a rare surviving example.

Location: Washington

GPS coordinates: 48.91124,-121.01623

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:49