Overnight at Hidden Lake Lookout

Hiking to one of Washington's historic and maintained fire lookouts is a once in a lifetime experience for any outdoor enthusiast. Nestled above the cloud line, these window lined shelters provide breathtaking panoramic views and much appreciated protection from the elements. The biggest draw is the people and bounding experience these lookouts can provide. Based on a first-come, first-serve basis, the huts can definitely have company. However, from my experience, anyone who is willing to endure the grueling 4-hrs hike with pack in tow to sleep amongst the mammoth mountain ranges of Washington tend to be pretty incredible individuals.

The trail begins tree-covered in a beautiful forest, and traverses some muddy switchbacks and wooden planks to help. Then you break into the valley and the real hikes begin. Inclines can reach strenuous degrees and at times the trail gets rather narrow. There is a small creek passing through the valley which the trail traverses and therefore offers an opportunity to purify drinking water.

Climbing above the tree line, the trail emerges amongst beautiful rocks. From this point, the hike becomes half-walking, half-scrambling. If you have a fear of heights, this is not a good crux to attempt.

During the scramble, you will get a beautiful view of Hidden Lake and some of the prominent peaks, as well as several nearby glaciers. Finally ascending the final boulder, there it is - the lookout! Fully equipped with books, a bed, table and chairs, and other donated items, it is a true slice of outdoor paradise; even John Muir would hang his boots here awhile. Plus, if you look for the orange stick a few hundred yards from the lookout, you'll be rewarded with the most majestic (and primitive) pooper toilet on earth.

The lookout sits at 6,900 ft elevation and the trail gains 3,300 ft of that in 4 miles. In total, the trip is 8 miles.

My advice is to be prepared to share the shelter with someone you don't know as these hikes are becoming more popular. Additionally, be prepared for the slight chance that the lookout will be full, in which case you can turn around or hike out. No permit is required for the lookout, but if you camp near Hidden Lake, then a back country permit is required.