Panoramic High Rock Lookout Hiking Adventure

Discover the thrill of High Rock, where every step leads to stunning vistas and the historic lookout offers unrivaled mountain views.

Last updated: Mar 2024

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Generally free, but check for parking or pass requirements.
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Embark on the High Rock hike for breathtaking panoramic views from a historic fire lookout, nestled in the heart of lush wilderness. Discover the thrill of High Rock, where every step leads to stunning vistas and the historic lookout offers unrivaled mountain views. The High Rock hike is a journey through vibrant forests, leading to one of the most spectacular lookout points in the region. This moderately challenging trail culminates at a historic fire lookout, offering 360-degree views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike, the High Rock trail is a must-do for those seeking to immerse themselves in natural beauty and tranquility.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Arrive early at the trailhead to secure parking.
Follow the marked trail to High Rock Lookout.
Enjoy the views and explore the lookout area.
Return via the same trail.

Location

Ashford, Washington

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Packing List

Sturdy hiking boots
Water and snacks
Weather-appropriate clothing
Camera
Trail map and compass/GPS

4.9 ● Google reviews

Free, amazing views, constant incline, lots of flies and bugs. The trail starts at the side of a dirt road and you find yourself climbing the entire way to the top. The lookout tour has lost its scenic top and some type of swarming insect commands the high ground and platform. There are plenty of vantage points to soak in the epic views of Rainier and surrounding valleys of forests. There are plenty of benches along the trail but the flies keep you moving. Most of the trail is shaded in the woods, making bug spray more relevant than sun screen.

Love this hike, it's all uphill getting there but nice down hill walk back. Very beautiful views, loved it Here for sunset, and Foggy views. Went on a Sunday afternoon, there were not a lot of people.

Very nice moderate hike since it’s not too far from the trail head. Took me about 1 hour 15 minutes with breaks. Decent dirt road with some pot holes and there is no cell service once you leave the county road, at least for me. The trail starts at the bend, I didn’t see any signs for it, I just saw someone go that way. Gradual incline most of the time and nice forest and mountain breeze. Very nice atmosphere except for the bugs, some mosquitos and lots of flies for some reason. Once you get to the top I didn’t notice much bugs. Beautiful view of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Saint Helens. A little terrifying looking down at the edge of the cliff but overall the views are great and worth the effort. Enjoy!

Great hike! Awesome view at the top on a clear day! We saw Rainier, Adams , st Helen’s, and Hood. Takes about 1 hour(some people 1:20)to get to the top. About 40-50 mins down.

Great little hike. Took less than an hour to get to the top for 4 relatively fit guys. I even just wore sandals and I was totally fine. We hiked up in June—No part was too steep or dangerous, and the vistas were amazing. You can see Mount Rainier, Adams, and St. Helens all from the lookout on a clear day. We went on a clear summer day, with a full moon at night. I highly recommend it. We hiked up and camped at the top, was definitely worth it. It was pretty cold at night, but a tent/hammock with a pad and a sleeping bag was plenty warm for us. No public restrooms, so plan accordingly.

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