South Point Lookout by Ives Peak of Goat Rocks sits inside Gifford Pinchot National Forest. A lookout tower once occupied the top from 1952 to 19721. Meanwhile, the summit views three volcanoes: Mount Saint Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier.
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South Point Lookout at a Glance
Access: South Point Trailhead
Round Trip: 7.7 miles
Elevation Range: 2760′-5980′
Essential Gear: none
Route Info: Joanne Najdzin
GPS Track: available
Dog-Friendly: yes
Playlist: Reels
Exploring More of Gifford Pinchot National Forest
We’ve taken far more trips through the Snoqualmie National Forest than anywhere else. Only last year did we start visiting more places in the South Cascades. But that also meant up to a two-plus-hour drive each way. This time, we went further south after a quick trip in June.
So, I decided to explore more spots east of Morton, Washington, during the off-season. And that’s when I stumbled on Joanne’s recent report and photos. So I knew it was a must-do, especially when it practically pumps up against the scenic Goat Rocks Wilderness.
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A Pleasant Walk to the Old Lookout
The hike to South Point Lookout included moderate strolls and climbs. There were plenty of switchbacks to offset the altitude with glimpses of Smith Ridge across the valley en route. Several shoulder-high windfalls on the lower trail were the extent of the obstacles.
Views lower down were scarce, with only sounds of the birds around to liven up the place. I got a preview to the south before going up the rocky switchbacks below the lookout. Soon, the radio tower appeared, followed by the expansive views of the area.
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Viewing Two Volcanoes from South Point Lookout
The top, adorned with two sheds and a tower, offered panoramas despite the nearby trees. It also showcased the beauty of the landscape, from the majestic Mount Rainier to Mount Adams and Goat Rocks. But Mount Saint Helens had long faded into the rolling clouds.
Eventually, the mist devoured the north vistas as the viewing slowly ended. Soon, Mount Rainier had succumbed to low clouds, shifting focus to the low-altitude peaks. Connor and I then took our sweet time strolling and poking around for views through the forest.
See more trip photos here.
- Courtesy of willhiteweb.com. ↩︎