Big Lou

Big Lou is a mountain summit in the Cascade Range of Washington State, rising to 7,763 feet above the Icicle Creek Valley. The peak sits within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area and commands views across the surrounding highland terrain from its ridge.

The peak was originally called Big Slide Mountain but was renamed to honor mountaineer Lou Whittaker, twin brother of the first American to summit Mount Everest. This name change recognized Whittaker's notable climbing accomplishments.

The summit register at Big Lou Mountain documents climbing achievements since 2002, marking the connection between mountaineers and this Cascade Range peak.

Reaching the summit requires a challenging hike from the Chatter Creek trailhead involving substantial elevation gain on an unmarked route. Visitors should possess advanced navigation and backcountry skills to travel safely through this remote terrain.

The summit features two nearly identical peaks, with the northwestern one slightly higher than the southeastern peak. The southeastern peak houses the official summit register where climbers record their ascents.

Location: Chelan County

GPS coordinates: 47.63923,-120.84748

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21