Suntop Lookout

CN97ea

Last update April 03, 2011

General.  This is a mountaintop with an unobstructed exposure in all directions. Mt. Rainier to the SSE blocks the path, but gives you something nice to bounce signals off of.  Strangely enough, there is a Rohn 25 tower base mounted in concrete (see pictures) just south of the guard tower.  I visited in mid-August 2001 and the fire guard station was open and staffed on weekends.  During the weekdays (and likely in the winter) the gate is locked about a mile downhill from the tower.  Do not pay attention to the sign at the foot of the hill indicating that the gate is locked.

Camping is not allowed, but could be done with a permit. The volunteer fire guards at the guard tower told me that the Ranger Station in Enumclaw [Telephone (360)825-6585] would have information about permits and access.  Stopping or parking at Suntop requires a $5 forest access permit that is available at ranger stations and local stores.

There is an outhouse and picnic tables located near the guard tower.

Driving Instructions.  Go east of Enumclaw on Hiway 410. Go south on forest road 73 approximately 1.4 miles. Go left on forest road 7315 five miles to intersection - look for the 7315 sign - it is to the right and a big concealed.  Continue uphill on road 7315 approximately 9/10 mile to Suntop.  This is an excellent gravel road with some washboard.  It is very dusty, but can be handled with passenger cars.  DQH should be able to make it with only one engine overhaul.