Located just east of the north part of Ross Lake, Desolation Peak is probably most famous for the fire lookout on top. In the mid 1950's, writer Jack Kerouac did a ~2 month stint there. He chronicled the time he spent on desolation at the end of his book "Dharma Bums" and at the beginning of "Desolation Angels".
There is trail to the top of the mountain. The view from the top is 1st class - 360 views of the North Cascades and the steep walls of Mt. Hozomeen due north.
The lookout on top is still manned (or womanned) at times, is generally locked otherwise & in really good shape.

Getting There

Drive Hwy 20 just east of the Diablo Dam to the East Bank Trailhead. From there, you have two choices - walk the east bank trail ~18 miles along the east shore of Ross Lake, or take the Ross Lake water taxi (or, you could take your own boat up the lake). Ross Lake Resort (who runs the taxi) can be reached at 206-386-4437 (although that number may be out of date - try area code 425?).

Red Tape

If you want to camp overnight in the area, North Cascades National Park administers the "Ross Lake Recreation Area" as if it were in the park. Reserving a campsite is free if done in person just before the trip, or $20 to reserve in advance. Otherwise, there is no parking or entrance fee.

When To Climb

Best from July till it starts snowing (mid october?)

Camping

Camping is allowed in designated campsites within the Ross Lake Recreation area. I believe there is a designated campsite somewhere on top of the mountain as well.

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