Pinecrest Lookout

Total Miles
6.8

Elevation

2,554.56 ft

Duration

1 Hours

Technical Rating

2

Easy

Best Time

Summer, Spring, Fall

Trail Overview

This trail is very scenic. The first half is mostly gravel roads that are easy. Once you turn onto 5N31, you can find some smaller rocks and ruts but nothing too serious. The trail eventually leads to the location of where the Pinecrest Lookout once stood. It is no longer there, but the views are still amazing. The trail looks over the surrounding area and even Pinecrest Lake and Dodge Ridge Ski Resort.

Photos of Pinecrest Lookout

Pinecrest Lookout
Pinecrest Lookout

Difficulty

This trail is not very difficult and very pretty. It is mostly dirt forest roads leading up the hill with some smaller ruts and rocks. Most 4x4 vehicles should make it without issues.

History

The Fire Lookout at Pinecrest Peak was originally built as a National Defense observation tower during WWII. It was manned from 1939-1973.

Technical Rating

2

Access Description

Off Highway 108, turn on Herring Creek Road (4N12) and drive it all the way up. Keep going all the way past the campgrounds and up the gravel road. Turn right on 5N31 and follow it to the end. Stay right when you get to the Waterhouse Trailhead staging area near the meadow.

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