Desolation Peak

Desolation Peak, located in Washington’s North Cascades within Ross Lake National Recreation Area, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike to a historic fire lookout at approximately 6,102 ft elevation. The trail features steep grassy slopes, alpine meadows, and sweeping views of Ross Lake and surrounding peaks—made famous by Jack Kerouac’s summer stint here in 1956.

How to Access the Trailhead

By Boat or Water Taxi via Ross Lake:

• Water Taxi: Book a ride from Ross Lake Resort to Lightning Creek dock. From there, the trailhead is a short hike. This significantly shortens your trek and is the most common route.
• Boat or Paddling: Access is also possible by paddling Ross Lake from Hozomeen (north) or Diablo Lake (south). Experience varies—includes portage and much longer distances—but can be combined with a backpacking trip.

• By Road & Hiking via East Bank Trail: Drive along State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway) to milepost 138. The East Bank Trailhead offers a long (~44-mile round-trip), strenuous hike with significant elevation gain (over 7,700 ft).

Parking Information

• No parking passes are required at trailheads within the North Cascades National Park Complex—including East Bank Trailhead and Ross Lake access points.

• If parking on Forest Service land (not applicable here), a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass may be needed—but not for this trail.

Permits & Overnight Camping

• Day hiking does not require a permit, per National Park Service regulations.

• Backcountry camping (e.g., at Desolation Camp located about 1 mi below the summit) does require a permit. These are limited, must be obtained from the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount or online, and a bear canister is required.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (July–September): Offers the most reliable access—roads clear, weather more stable, and wildflowers in bloom.

• Shoulder Seasons: Spring and fall can be unpredictable; SR 20 is often closed during heavy snow (late fall to mid-spring).

What to Pack

• Plenty of water—trail remains hot and dry; no reliable water sources once above Ross Lake.

• Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, especially for exposed alpine sections.

• Sturdy hiking shoes and possibly trekking poles for steep, rocky terrain.

• Layers & rain gear: Weather is highly variable; lookout area can be stormy.

• Bear canister if camping.

• Maps or GPS download, as cell service is limited in the region.

Pet Policy

• Dogs are permitted in Ross Lake National Recreation Area and on Forest Service lands, but must remain leashed at all times.

• Note: Dogs are not allowed on most trails within North Cascades National Park itself. Since access to Desolation Peak is predominantly via Ross Lake NRA, leashed dogs are allowed—but always verify local signage or with park staff before heading out.