Marckworth Forest — Wednesday, Mar. 28, 2018

This 'hike' is more about the destination than the walk to get there.  Also known as Cherry Hill this former fire lookout lies at the end of a logging road walk with a short bushwhack.

Stay right at each fork of the road as it winds in a backwards S pattern until you come to a tree blocking the road.  The roadbed is well defined up to this point but this last spur going right after the fallen tree is somewhat overgrown with a few trees to step over and blackberries that will grab you if not paying attention. 

Shortly arriving at the spur end pick a spot and go right into the forest.  You can catch a glimpse of the rocky top from here.  I traversed up and right to the ridgeline then followed it to the rocky knob.  Some may find it challenging but I didn't think it was that bad.  Just watch your step and pick your route carefully.  Once on top of the high point I spotted the summit register and signed in.  Someone else had just been up this month as well.  From there go northwest toward a lower portion of the rocks where there's a much more open area with the best views (you can see Seattle on a clear day).  Note that it's very mossy and there's a sharp drop off that could prove fatal.  After scouting around the area but finding no artifacts I located a geocache and left something behind.  I've included the link below so you can decipher the clue and find it too. 

3.2 miles total distance and 400 ft. elevation gain.  To reach the gate that leads to this lookout take Stossel Creek Rd to pavements end and the Marckworth Forest.  At exactly four miles from pavements end find the locked gate on your left.  There's plenty of room to park without blocking the gate.  A Discovery Pass is required. 

More Information on this Trip Report

• https://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?wp=GC2Y46Q&title=platts-lookout