Lookout Mountain: A Classic Methow Valley Fall Hike

The Lookout Mountain trail, outside of Twisp, is a classic Methow Valley hike to an abandoned fire lookout with spectacular, 360-degree views of the Sawtooth Range, Mt. Gardner, Tiffany, Bald, Methow Valley, and Columbia Plateau.

The 3-mile, round trip hike starts out a little steep, with several switchbacks before easing up along the western traverse of the mountain. Enjoy the sweet smell of pine and fir forest while gazing out toward lofty mountains. Toward the top, the trail loops south so that you can see the lookout. Continue a little farther to reach the 5,518-foot summit and soak in the panorama views. In summer months, the open summit is covered with wildflowers including paintbrush, purple lupine, yellow balsamroot, bitterroot, and scarlet gillia. Total elevation gain is 1,120 feet.

For those who want more distance, check out Lookout Ridge Trail #423, which takes off near the summit.

To get to the trailhead from Twisp, drive west ¼ mile on Twisp River Road. Turn left onto Alder Creek Road (FS4345-200) and continue eight miles to the road’s end and trailhead. It looks like the road just peters out. You can park under trees before the last switchback or in the pullout by the start of trail. The trailhead is unsigned.

Notes: Green Trails Twisp No. 84. For more info, contact the Okanogan National Forest, Methow Valley Ranger District at (509) 996-4000.

Photo by Kara Palmer.