Big Butte Lookout — Sunday, Jul. 13, 2025

Hoping to visit Big Butte Lookout, we drove up the bumpy but passable Forest Road 170 and parked a short distance from a locked gate across the road bearing a "Road Closed" sign. Evidently the adjoining barbed wire fence has been repaired since WTA's description was written as it now prevents access beyond unless one is willing to climb over the fairly high fence.  We decided not to trespass.

Although disappointed not to reach the lookout, or even see it (it's obscured by trees), we were amply compensated by the scenic drive along FR 4304 between Wickiup Campground and the FR 170 turnoff. The views east to Idaho's Craig Mountains and south to the Wallowa Mountains in Oregon are stunning. It's worth stopping to stretch your legs at the picturesque Wenatchee Guard Station built in 1933 by the CCC and now available to rent from the US Forest Service.