Distance
3.6 miles roundtrip
Trail Guide
Winchester Mountain Lookout Trail
3.6 mi roundtrip · 1,300 ft gain · Moderate · Winchester Mountain
Trail Stats
Elevation Gain
1,300 ft
Highest Point
6,521 ft
Trailhead Elevation
5,200 ft
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Type
Out And Back
Features
Fire lookout
360-degree views
Twin Lakes
Technical Notes
Short but steep hike to a historic fire lookout with stunning 360- degree views. Trail is above treeline most of the way. The lookout is one of the most scenic in Washington. Access via rough FR-3065 to Twin Lakes — high clearance vehicle recommended. Snow on trail into August some years.
Getting There
Trailhead
Twin Lakes Trailhead
FR-3065, Twin Lakes, Mt Baker area
Parking: ~15 spaces
From Seattle
140 mi · 185 min drive
I-5 North to SR-542 East. Near Artist Point, turn on FR-3065 to Twin Lakes. Very rough road. ~3 hours from Seattle.
Planning Details
Best Season
August through October
Dogs Allowed
Yes
Required Pass
Northwest Forest Pass
Annual: $30.00 · Day: $5.00
Mountain
Winchester Mountain · 6,521 ft · North Cascades
Avalanche Forecast
Check current avalanche conditions for the Winchester Mountain zone before your trip.
Ready to plan?
Get a full trip report with weather, gear, logistics, and an event draft.