the North Cascades Highway | 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.

Desolation Peak from Ross Lake

Desolation Peak Lookout

Ross Lake from Desolation Peak, Sunrise

Ross Lake from Desolation Peak

Ross Lake Sunset

Any trip over the North Cascades Highway necessitates a stop at the Washington Pass Lookout.

Located at the highest point along the highway, at more than 5,400 ft elevation, Washington Pass Overlook offers stunning views of Liberty Bell and Early Winter Spires.

This section of the North Cascades Highway makes for one of the most scenic drives in Washington and is a part of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway

I have stopped there many times on the way to or from hikes in the Pasayten Wilderness. Each time the mountain shows a different countenance. Silver Star Mountain is also clearly in view from the Washington Pass Lookout.

After Mount Shuksan I would have to guess that Liberty Bell is one of the most photographed mountains in the state, due to its stark beauty and easy access to the lookout area.

Several trips I have made to Washington Pass only to capture images, at sunrise, sunset and on clear starless nights!