downstream on the Skagit River
- Pinnacle Peak (Mount Peak or Mount Pete) (summitpost.org)
Welcome to another small “exercise” summit located just southeast of the greater Seattle-Tacoma area. This former cinder cone located just outside of Enumclaw is home numerous trails on its north and south sides and a number of good views of the area. It should be noted that this summit actually has three separate name; Pinnacle Peak, Mount Peak and Mount Pete. Whatever you choose to call the mountain is great little backup peak when weather spoils your plans for larger mountains. Located just southeast from the town of Enumclaw this mountain of volcanic origin is a classic family hike. The peak stand 1000 feet above the valley floor and often make a good foreground peak to nearby Mount Rainier. There is very little in the way of views from the summit due to overgrowth, however at one time this peak had a lookout tower and the concrete base is still there today. As for today there are still section where there are views. Near the summit there is a view looking north. There is also a side trail from the summit are with a view off a ledge looking east. This peak is also very popular among local and among trail runners in the area.
upstream on the Skagit River
- Diablo Lake (wa100.dnr.wa.gov)
Diablo Lake is a teal gem nestled in the Cascades. Travelers on State Route 20 often stop at the Diablo Lake overlook to marvel at the lake’s vivid hue. Diablo Lake is used as a reservoir, created by the Diablo Dam. It is one of three lakes in the area used for power generation, along with Ross Lake to the north and Gorge Lake to the south. Seattle City Light manages the power generation as part of the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project. The lake is a popular place to kayak or canoe, but be prepared for a chilly swim should the boat tip over; the water temperature of lakes in this area rarely exceeds 50°F, even in summer. This stop is more than just a place to stretch your legs. It is a world of quintessential Cascade vistas of rock spires and snowfields set against a multitude of striking greens and blues. You won’t be disappointed.
- Diablo Lake (Wikipedia)
Diablo Lake is a reservoir in the North Cascade mountains of northern Washington state, United States. Created by Diablo Dam, the lake is located between Ross Lake and Gorge Lake on the Skagit River at an elevation of 1,201 feet (366 m) above sea level. Diablo Lake is part of the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project and managed by Seattle City Light.