How to Get by Car to the Lookout at the Summit of Moses Mountain in Washington?
Moses Mountain is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2,066m (6,778ft) above sea level, located in Okanogan County, in the U.S. state of Washington. It’s one of the highest roads in Washington.
Where is Moses Mountain?
The peak is located in the north-central part of Washington, within the Colville Indian Reservation.
Why is it Called Moses Mountain?
The peak was named after Chief Moses, a late-1800s chief of the Sinkiuse-Columbia tribe.
What’s at the Summit of Moses Mountain?
At the summit, there are several radio facilities, structures, and a historic fire lookout. The first fire lookout on the peak was a wooden platform built in 1914 atop a tall tree with a nearby cabin. In 1923, it was replaced by a 30-foot pole tower, followed by a 35-foot steel tower in 1930. The current 123-foot Aermotor steel tower was constructed in 1938, and the earlier tower was removed several years later. Although the fire lookout has not been in use since the mid-1980s, it remains the tallest lookout tower in the Pacific Northwest, if not the entire western United States.
The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called BIA Road 61. It is a dirt road full of ruts, rocks, potholes, and 21 switchbacks. Nearly every switchback allows enough off-road room for a vehicle to park. Potential summiters should do whatever makes them comfortable; that road is not in a favorable location for a vehicle to break down.
Can I Drive My Vehicle to Moses Mountain?
Road conditions can vary, so while a high-clearance AWD vehicle isn’t strictly required at the moment, it is strongly recommended for a safer and more comfortable drive. The road can become potentially troublesome if wet and/or muddy. It is only recommended to drive it during dry conditions.
How Long Is the Road to Moses Mountain?
The road to the summit is very steep. It’s 6.59km (4.1 miles) long, starting from BIA Road 56. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 626m (2,054 ft) and the average gradient is 9.49%.
Pic: Matt Haffie