Desolation Peak Bench Mark Medallion

Located in North Cascades National Park, Washington, Desolation Peak stands at an elevation of 6,102 feet. The Desolation Peak Trail is renowned for its steep ascent, leading hikers through lush forests, open meadows, and offering breathtaking vistas. This challenging hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views of Hozomeen Mountain, the Picket Range, Ross Lake, Jack Mountain, and Skagit Peak. The trail, marked by significant elevation gain, starts gently with lakeside views before becoming a rigorous climb through diverse ecosystems.

The historic fire lookout at the summit, where Beatnik poet Jack Kerouac once served in 1956, is a notable attraction. Kerouac's time on Desolation Peak inspired his classic work, *Desolation Angels*. The area’s history of periodic fires has shaped its unique landscape, creating open meadows that are home to diverse plant species and wildlife, including deer, bear, cougar, grouse, and marmots.