Desolation Peak peak
Desolation Peak rises to 6,102 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Cascade Range range.
Rising to an elevation of approximately 1,478 meters (4,849 feet), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This mountain is known for its rugged terrain, making it a popular destination for experienced mountaineers seeking a challenging adventure.
During the winter season, Desolation Peak receives substantial snowfall, resulting in a considerable snowpack. The snowpack range can vary from year to year, but it typically accumulates from late fall to early spring, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts such as backcountry skiers and snowshoers.
Desolation Peak is bordered by several creeks and rivers that benefit from the mountain's runoff. These water sources include the Skookumchuck River, which flows to the southwest, and Lillooet River, which is located to the east. These rivers and creeks contribute to the overall beauty and ecological richness of the surrounding areas.
The history of the name "Desolation Peak" is rooted in the lore and legends of the indigenous people of the region. While different sources attribute various meanings to the name, it is commonly associated with the mountain's remote and desolate nature. This mountain has also gained literary significance, as it was made famous by American author Jack Kerouac, who spent a summer working as a fire lookout on Desolation Peak in 1956. Kerouac's experiences and reflections during his stay on the mountain were later documented in his novel, "Desolation Angels."
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Desolation Peak
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Nohrsc Park Creek Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Rainy Pass | 1 in | → |
| Hozomeen Camp | 1 in | → |
| Park Creek Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Berne | 17 in | → |
| Newhalem | 212 in | → |
| White Chuck Mountain | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near Desolation Peak
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Cascade River At Marblemount | 1,130 cfs | → |
| Skagit River At Newhalem | 4,000 cfs | → |
| Bacon Creek Below Oakes Creek Near Marblemount | 337 cfs | → |
| Newhalem Creek Near Newhalem | 30 cfs | → |
| Methow River Above Goat Creek Near Mazama | 453 cfs | → |
| Thunder Creek Near Newhalem | 1,040 cfs | → |
| Skagit River At Marblemount | 4,040 cfs | → |
Weather Forecast
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Desolation Peak
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Desolation Peak.
Ski areas
- Apex Mountain Resort
- Stevens Pass Ski Area
- Mt. Baker Ski Area
- Cayoosh Resort (Melvin Creek)
- Lower Lake Cross Country Ski Trails
- Kane Valley (Nicola Nordic Ski Club)
River runs
- Confluence Of Canyon And Granite Creeks To Ross Lake National Recreation Area Boundary
- Ross Lake National Recreation Area Boundary To Slack Water Of Ross Lake
- Pasayten Wilderness Boundary To Point On Range Line Between Sec 12, R14e And Sec 17, R16e
- Point On Range Line To Ruby Creek
- Headwaters To Upper Goodell Campground (Rm 0.5)
- Headwaters To North Cascades National Park Boundary
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