In the northwestern corner of the continental United States and the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this hike ends at an old fire lookout and with close-up views of Baker.
While a quality afternoon workout, the hike is not particularly strenuous – especially when you consider what you receive. Once on the higher ridges there is plenty to see in the distance, as well as right in front of your face.
Once you’ve reached a higher elevation and are walking along the spine of these mountains for a bit, you’ll see the wooden fire lookout seemingly perched precariously atop a precipice. Fortunately for me, it was a beautiful sunny day in October and no fires were seen.
The Park Butte trail will take you up to the lookout and back in about 7 miles. While you can be up and down in a morning, you could easily be motivated to extend the day while strolling around paths and taking a picnic on top. If you’re interested, check out a trail map.