Hike to High Rock Lookout

Randle, Washington

5.0/5

based on 8 reviews

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Distance

3.2 miles

Elevation Gain

1365 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jake Anderson

Old 1929 fire lookout perched on slab of rock with gorgeous, vertigo-inducing views of Mount Rainier, the Tatoosh range, and Lake Cora (1800' below).

High Rock Lookout is aptly named. Perched at 5,685' on a slab of rock, it has sweeping views of the valleys below, Cora Lake, and Mount Rainier. Although it is only a short 1.6 mile hike to the top, it is a steep one. You gain 1,365' to reach the lookout, but the reward is grand.

The trail follows a ridge line through beautiful old growth forest, and is lined with huckleberry bushes, bear grass, and the less common trilliums. Soon you'll reach a bench, a good place to stop and rest. The trail keeps a steady incline, and finally deposits you onto the rocky ridge. Traverse up the rock towards the right to reach the lookout. Careful - a step off of the cliff would be fatal.

You'll want to stay to take plenty of pictures, to eat lunch, and to hydrate. The views from here are amazing! Cora Lake sits a dizzying 1800' below you, and on a clear day, this is one of the best views of Mount Rainier that you can find. Please be respectful of these pieces of Washington's history, so they can be enjoyed for years to come.

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Hike to High Rock Lookout Reviews

Grant Thomas

Hike to High Rock Lookout

07/05/16

Fantastic hike! BEAUTIFUL views of the mountains. The 9 mile dirt road to the trailhead is full of large pot holes. I only recommend making the trip to the trailhead in a high clearance vehicle.

5.0

Allie Merrill

Hike to High Rock Lookout

06/13/16

Wow, spectacular views, and it makes you feel like you're on top of the world. Thanks for the write-up! One thing to add: the road is not well maintained, and even though there are two ways up, both are in equally poor condition. The road is about ten miles long of potholes and washout. Use caution when driving small cars!

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to High Rock Lookout

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Hike to High Rock Lookout Reviews

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