TRAIL DETAILS
The Park Butte Trail in the Mount Baker Wilderness is a popular hike among backpackers and day hikers for its breathtaking views and easy accessibility. It is a 7.5-mile round trip hike boasts an elevation gain of 2200 feet, and maximum height 5450 feet to one of our favorite lookouts in Washington. The trailhead is located on forest roads off Bake Lake Road.
This trail has lots of great campsites, which are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The historic fire lookout, built in 1932, is open to campers if you arrive early enough which is a great experience. If you are looking to secure a spot in the lookout, it is advisable to arrive early on a weekend. The trailhead also has several car campsites available if you want to beat the rush. We were the second group to arrive at 9 am on a Saturday morning and found a great spot just below the lookout.
Explore the numerous side trails and tarns, including the railroad grade trail that leads you up close to a glacier. The trail is dog friendly so your furry friend is welcome to join the fun!
Park Butte is snow-free from late July to late September, making it the perfect time to visit. So, if you're looking for a backpacking trip filled with adventure, scenic views, and a chance to connect with nature, Park Butte in the Mount Baker Wilderness is a must-visit. Don't forget your camera, as the trail offers great photo opportunities throughout the journey.
Why choose this hike
One of the best fire lookout trails in Washington
Beautiful unobstructed mountain views
Lots of side trails to explore if you are backpacking - consider the railroad grade trail to get up close to a glacier
A large variety of scenery including forests, big mountain views, waterfalls, tarns and wildflower meadows
Dog Friendly :)
Why go somewhere else
Very busy on summer weekend
Bring lots of water as this trail is pretty sun exposed
No campfires allowed
Permits and Camping:
Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at the trailhead
Camping is first come first served and there are several established campgrounds
Camping at the tarns is not allowed as this is a sensitive ecosystem
Distance:
Seattle: 2 hours 20 minutes
Vancouver: 2 hours 45 minutes
Portland: 4 hours 45 minutes
Useful Links:
For up to date trail information:
Check the WTA for trail directions
PHOTO ESSAY
Get started early at 630 am
Mixed forest and meadows in the first mile
Our first glimpse of Mt Baker! This trail was absolutely stunning in the morning light.
About 1/2 way to the lookout you start to break out into larger meadows with great views that only get better as you continue to climb.
Exploring the tarn and basin in the evening
Park Butte lookout at sunset
Beautiful reflections of Mt Baker in a couple tarns in the basin area
If you are looking for good photo opportunities it is best to get up at Sunrise. The lighting in the morning is like no other area we have been and is absolutely stunning.
Sunrise from the lookout
Starting the trek back to the trailhead early. We had accidentally run out of propane and ran out fo fresh water.
Stunning vistas from every direction
Hard to take a bad photo in the morning on Park Butte
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