[fourteen410]

When I first visited this lookout in January 2014, it was in sad shape. Fortunately, not long after, Friends of North Mountain began restoration work on the lookout. And what a fine job they have done. After years of hard work, the lookout finally opened for nightly rentals this summer. Reservations sold out quickly, so I was glad to have pounced on a date. Shortly before my stay, I received a message that the lookout was no longer dog-friendly. I was in the process of cancelling my reservation when the caretakers offered an exception: I could bring Pebbles as long as she stayed on the catwalk and out of the cabin. Deal! We arrived at the lookout late Tuesday afternoon. I was immediately impressed with the renovation work. Here are a couple before and after pics:

2014

2021

2014 (catwalk boards punching through )

2021

2014

2021

2014

2021

Much of the afternoon was spent gawking at near and far away peaks.

We even had time for some berry picking and snacking (not the mountain ash!).

We cooked dinner on the propane stove and then settled in for an amazing sunset show. Pebbles occasionally peeked in to ensure that we were all accounted for.

At night, I slept on the catwalk with Pebbles. The others got to enjoy the nice queen bed, but I was treated to perfect temps, a light breeze, and shooting stars. No complaints there. The sun rose the following morning around 6am and quickly warmed things up.

outhouse door is made from the original lookout door

Before long, we'd have to muster the strength to leave this beautiful place. Before heading back to the working world, we stopped for breakfast at Moe's, a tasty new cafe in Darrington. Big thanks to everyone who helped with the restoration of this incredible structure

[lookout bob]

beautiful photos Lauren. Looks like a good time was had!

[yukon222]

Really enjoyed seeing your pics. Very nice restoration. Pic of Pebbles snacking on the berries is terrific.

[4pwagner2]

Great to hear you enjoyed the visit! Friends of North Mountain strives for reasonable rules and conditions that make visits enjoyable. Nice pictures, would you be will for FNM to use some in displays or Facebook posts? AND, FYI, FNM will be having a GRAND opening sometime mid-August this year (2022)

[fourteen410]

[4pwagner2]

Great, thank you! Photo credit as fourteen-410? What handle would you like?