The lookout at Stampede Pass was built in the 1930s. Individuals
who manned the lookout at that time were able to scan forested
hills and rugged mountains of the Cascades to the west. They could
also look down on Lake Keechelus below. Since its removal, the
trees surrounding the lookout have grown back and all that remains
are the old concrete
footings .
The lookout was retired in 1974. Instead of destroying it as so
many other had been, the cab was lifted off its 35-foot legs and
air lifted by helicopter to Camp Waskowitz near North Bend, 20
miles from its original location. It is now a museum piece
available for public viewing. A visit to the lookout must be
arranged in advance by the camp director.
Related Links:
Stampede Pass Lookout from Rex's Forest
Fire Lookout Page
Article with Photos of
lookout cab being airlifted by helicopter
To get to the cache at Stampede Pass lookout site, take Exit 62
off Interstate 90 and head south approximately 5 miles to Stampede
Pass. Once you reach the summit, proceed down the other side a
tenth-mile or so and turn left. You will drive by Lizard Lake. Just
past the lake turn left and follow the road to the top. The lookout
site is approximately 3/4 mile east of Stampede Pass. The cache is
an ammo can near the old concrete footings which supported the
lookout tower.