Hike of the Week: Gobblers Knob

Summer sun on Mt. Rainier.

Gobblers Knob

Feast on excellent views from this Mount Rainier lookout




by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin

August 18, 2006

Quick Facts
Location: Mount Rainier National Park
Land Agency: National Park Service
Roundtrip: 13 miles
Elevation gain: 2,800 feet
Access: From Ashford head east on SR 706. Enter Mount Rainier National Park and turn left on the West Side Road. Follow for 2.7 miles. Road is permanently closed beyond-hike or bike 4 miles to Round Pass to official trailhead. Gobblers Knob is 2.5 miles from Round Pass.

Notes: National Park entry fee

At 5,485’ Gobblers Knob is the lowest of the four remaining fire lookouts in Mount Rainier National Park. It used to be the shortest to reach too; just a 2.5-mile hike from Round Pass off of the West Side Road. But Rainier’s fickle creeks have continuously flooded this road forcing its closure. To reach the trailhead now, one must bike or walk an additional four miles one way.
But of course to those who make the journey, the scenic rewards are worth the effort. The trail cuts through incredibly lush and thick forest en route to the historic lookout built in the 1930s. Placid Lake George offers respite from the continuous green canopy.
Gobblers Knob has the distinction of being the closest lookout to the colossal volcano. From the viewing platform it feels as if “The Mountain” is breathing right down your neck. In the late afternoon sun you can make out the deep crevasses on the massive Tahoma Glacier. You can even hear its outlet creek roar from your lofty perch.
Mount Rainier National Park’s remaining fire lookouts are no longer needed to fight wildfire. But, they continue to ignite passion in their admirers while also offering some of the hottest views in the Northwest. Gobblers Knob offers a royal feast of views of Washington’s most beloved peak.