2 people found this report helpful
I don't see how you could not stop at this overlook any time you drive past on Highway 20. The views are simply amazing. But unfortunately, according to a sign posted, the parking lot will be closed for paving starting August 18. No word on when it will open again.
4 people found this report helpful
After spending a great day in the mountains, this is ideal for a great leg stretcher with iconic views of the Liberty Bell and Kangaroo Pass.
We also stopped in Sedro-Woolley for some great BBQ at Double Barrel BBQ.
What a great Saturday despite the crowds on the more popular trails.
3 people found this report helpful
Not really a hike, but a view point along Rt 20 into Winthrop area. We pulled off and had very clear visibility. The views were beautiful of the surrounding mountain scape and the dramatic ascent and descent of Route 20 below.
Almost missed that the trail continued to the left of where you arrive at the first lookout platform. It proceeds upward to a higher vantage point which allowed for more tree-free picture angles. It then completed a loop back to the parking lot.
This is a very short walk, but does involve some walking up uneven slope to the higher viewing section, but if you limit your walk to the initial and most dramatic view point people who are mobility impaired but able to walk about 1/4 of a mile will find it accessible.
Not much else to say. A worthing scenic view.
1 person found this report helpful
Visited this spot during the new moon for star gazing so I’ll review it from a star gazers perspective. I saw ahead of time on a dark sky map that this spot was a low Bortle level 2 (for those unfamiliar, just about the lowest light pollution level you can get in WA) and was intrigued.
The road to get the trailhead is remarkably civilized and easy to drive on at night. The restrooms are well maintained and I imagine a crew comes to this spot relatively often due to its accessibility. At the lookout spot itself, I found 2 astro photographers. Both left within an hour and I had 12:00-3:30 AM all by myself. Cars come through maybe once an hour at such late times; it truly is a spectacle to watch if you’re willing to ruin your night vision. There were probably shooting stars every 5-10 minutes; as an inexperienced star gazer I have no idea whether such a number was influenced by the Perseids which I’ve heard can influence higher late July meteor activity.
All my photos were taken using my iPhone 15 with the main camera, no focus tap (funnily enough, tapping ruined my photos), 15-30 second exposure time (I avoided 30 when I could because of star trails but the iPhone camera app is very limited in control), and a tripod. The Milky Way is certainly visible but the camera makes it look otherworldly :) Have realistic expectations and enjoy your experience.