desolation peak trail | North Western Images

Desolation Peak is located on the east side of Ross Lake, along the border with the Pasayten Wilderness. There is a lookout tower atop Desolation, which is still manned by the park service. actually the lookout is a historical site, having been the inspiration to numerous authors, including Jack Kerouac and his book, “Desolation Angels”.
The hike from the lake shore to the summit is 4,500 feet gain in 4.5 miles and there is an official camp near the summit.