Trip report by Rex Kamstra.
This Washington Dept. of Natural Resources lookout, overlooking the Okanogan Valley in North Central Washington, may not be a true hike to some, but it's the only way for the general public to access the summit. Oddly, while other Washington lookouts like High Rock and Lookout Mountain host many visitors each day, the lookout receives less than 20 visitors each summer! It truly is a destination waiting to be discovered.
From the summit, you can see up and down the Okanogan Valley from well into British Columbia south to the Columbia Basin, east to the Kettle Range, and west to the Pasayten Wilderness. The lookout is staffed from mid-June through mid-September.
Photo: Aeneas Mountain Forest Fire Lookout.
Stats: 1.6 miles, 1000' elevation gain, high point 5167'.
Getting there: From Tonasket, head west, crossing the Okanogan River. Turn left, and at about 1 mile, take a right on North Pine Creek Road (the intersection is signed "Aeneas L.O. 19"). From here, there are several options, but the best is to stay on the North Pine Creek Road, bypassing Horse Springs Coulee Rd, Henry Rd, and N. Lemanasky Rd. The pavement will end, and after several miles, take a right on Lemanasky Road (this is also signed "Aeneas L.O."). After approx. 5 miles, you'll reach Lemanasky Lake. The lookout road is straight ahead, via a road with an open, green gate. In 2 miles, you'll reach a small cabin and a closed, unlocked blue gate. You can either park here (which adds .2 miles to the hike) or continue on to the locked, green gate. From here, follow the poorly maintained road to the summit, dodging cowpies in the late summer.
Author's update: Second, locked gate is now painted yellow instead of green. Road between Lemanasky Lake and gate is signed with "No Trespassing" and "Private Road" but can still be used to access lookout only.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.