Evergreen Mountain Lookout
03 reviewsP.O. Box 305, Skykomish, WA 98288, USA
Evergreen Mountain Lookout
$85.00 - $85.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for reserving the lookout cabin during peak season (August 18, 2025 - September 30, 2025) is $85. This fee excludes possible taxes and reservation service fees.
About this campground
Perched atop a windswept peak at 5,587 feet, Evergreen Mountain Lookout beckons adventurers to step back in time and into the clouds. This lovingly restored 1935 fire tower transforms from a sentinel of the wilderness into your personal mountain retreat, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame an ever-changing canvas of Glacier Peak's icy shoulders and Mt. Rainier's distant majesty. Here in the heart of the Wild Sky Wilderness, you'll sleep where generations of fire spotters once kept their lonely vigil, trading modern comforts for something far more precious: a front-row seat to nature's grandest theater.
The Evergreen Mountain Lookout offers a unique camping experience in a historic fire lookout cabin. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned, but tent camping may be possible along the trail.
Historical SignificanceFor nearly half a century, from 1935 to the early 1980s, lonely fire spotters called this tower home, scanning the endless sea of green for telltale wisps of smoke. Their dedication protected these ancient forests through countless seasons, creating a legacy that earned the lookout a coveted spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Thanks to passionate restoration efforts in the 1990s, modern visitors can now experience this slice of forest service history firsthand, sleeping where heroes of conservation once stood guard over the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here writes its own dramatic script, shifting from sun-drenched clarity to swirling mists in mere moments. Winter transforms the lookout into a snow-globe sanctuary, where temperatures plunge and pristine powder blankets the surrounding peaks—a crystalline world accessible only to the most intrepid souls. Come summer, the mountain air turns crisp and clear, offering those magical alpine days when visibility stretches for hundreds of miles and the evening light paints the distant volcanoes in shades of rose and gold.
ElevationAt 5,587 feet, you'll find yourself in that sweet spot where the air grows thin enough to remind you you're somewhere special, yet breathable enough to fuel your mountain adventures. This lofty perch delivers more than just cooler temperatures—it serves up a 360-degree panorama that transforms sunrise and sunset into private light shows, with views that stretch from volcanic peaks to endless ridgelines fading into the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape tells a story of fire and rebirth, where the ghostly silver snags from the 1967 Evergreen Mountain Burn stand sentinel among vibrant new growth and pockets of ancient forest that escaped the flames. This dynamic ecosystem attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters: black bears amble through huckleberry patches, elk bugle across mist-shrouded valleys, and if you're exceptionally fortunate, you might glimpse a bobcat padding silently through the understory or hear the haunting chorus of wolves echoing through the darkness. Overhead, bald eagles ride the mountain thermals, their white heads catching the light as they patrol their aerial kingdom.
Geological RegionThe Wild Sky Wilderness showcases nature at its most untamed, where jagged peaks thrust skyward from a rumpled blanket of old-growth forest. This rugged terrain bears the scars and beauty of its volcanic past, with ancient lava flows now clothed in emerald moss and thousand-year-old trees. The dramatic evidence of the 1967 burn creates a unique patchwork across the mountains—silver snags reaching toward the sky like nature's own sculptures, interspersed with meadows bursting with wildflowers and young forests racing to reclaim their birthright.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned; the steep hike required to reach the lookout may pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 14x14 feet and suitable for small groups or families of up to four people.
Sites PrivacyThe lookout cabin provides a secluded experience, situated atop a mountain with panoramic views and no nearby structures.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors are advised to bring water, sleeping bags, flashlights, towels, dish soap, matches, a first aid kit, toilet paper, and garbage bags.
Best CampsitesThe lookout cabin is the sole campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at the time keys are picked up from the Skykomish Ranger Station.
Check-out
Check-out involves locking the cabin and returning the key according to station rules.
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay limit is 2 nights per visit
- maximum of 4 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The lookout cabin accommodates up to 4 guests.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe lookout cabin is singularly located at the summit of Evergreen Mountain.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from August 18, 2025, to September 30, 2025, for reservations. Currently closed due to an ongoing wildfire.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online system, app, or contact center. Additional fees may apply depending on the platform used.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability due to reservable-only policy for the lookout cabin.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made within 14 days of the scheduled check-in date are subject to a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Late cancellations are not eligible for full refunds.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities available around Evergreen Mountain Lookout include hiking, birding, wildlife viewing, and berry picking. The trail to the lookout is noted for its scenic beauty, wildflowers, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Hiking
The Evergreen Lookout Trail must be traversed to access the cabin. "Guests access the lookout via the Evergreen Lookout Trail that climbs steeply through the old Evergreen Mountain Burn of 1967." The trail offers stunning wildflower displays, dense forest landscapes, and panoramic mountain views.Wildlife viewing
"Wildlife is abundant, and guests may catch a glimpse of black bears, bobcat, elk, or bald eagle." Wolves are also making a comeback in the area, although they are typically heard rather than seen.Winter Activities
The area may be less accessible during winter due to snow. Weather data indicates heavy snow during certain weeks, making the lookout challenging to access.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Open flames are restricted to lanterns and stoves; candles and incense are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Guests are expected to follow standard quiet hours, though specific times are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep hiking trails, rapidly changing weather, and wildlife such as bears and wolves present potential hazards.
Active alertsCurrently closed due to an ongoing wildfire.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Skykomish Ranger Station (contact number: 360-677-2414).
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 18, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo on-site trash or recycling services are provided. Guests are required to pack out all trash and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresNo notable water features are immediately accessible.
Common complaintsThe lack of water and heat facilities are noted. Long drives on dirt roads and steep trail conditions are challenging for some guests.
HostContact the Skykomish Ranger Station at 360-677-2414 for assistance and key pickup.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 305, Skykomish, WA 98288, USA
Driving directionsFrom State Route 2, turn north onto Beckler River Road (Forest Road #65), which is 0.5 miles east of the town of Skykomish. Continue on Forest Road #65 for 13 miles to Jack Pass. At Jack Pass, turn right onto FSR #6550 and drive about 1 mile to FSR #6554. Drive FSR #6554 6.5 miles to the trailhead. It is another 1.5 mile hike to the lookout.
The access includes a mix of paved and unpaved roads. Forest Service Road #6554 is a dirt road but was reported to be in good condition by a reviewer in 2020. Access also requires a 1.5-mile steep hike on the Evergreen Lookout Trail.Nearby places
Skykomish (0.5 miles from State Route 2, then 13 miles along Forest Road #65 to Jack Pass).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in the town of Skykomish, located 0.5 miles off State Route 2.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Evergreen Mountain Lookout has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning views, the rustic charm of the cabin, and the unique hiking experience required to access the site. "The trail to the tower is pretty short but very steep in places," noted one reviewer, emphasizing the challenging but rewarding nature of the hike.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers consistently praise the lookout for its panoramic views, historical significance, and secluded location. Comments like "The most amazing sunset, and sunrise" and "Thank you so much for...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some complaints center around the steep and challenging hike and the lack of on-site amenities like running water and gas for the stove. "There was no gas for the stove," one reviewer noted.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers include bringing plenty of water, packing food, and preparing for sudden changes in weather. "Bring lots of water. It’s a steep hike, but not bad for experienced hikers," advises...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Late summer is noted as an ideal time to visit, as guests are able to enjoy solitude due to fewer visitors. "We went to Evergreen in late summer and had the place to ourselves the entire time,"...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The most amazing sunset, and sunrise," noted Rebecca F. "A little colder than I had anticipated," noted Shelley Searle.
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews on individual campsites are available, as the campground consists of one lookout cabin.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit user reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"Please do not let pets roam freely, as they may endanger wildlife and plants or themselves," advises the official source.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025