Alpine Lookout (47.81203, -120.8680039) History. Alpine Mountain was first established as a lookout camp in 1920 with a phone and alidade (a sighting device used often in surveying to determine directions and measuring angles). In 1936 an L-4 ground house was constructed with a large stone base. The ground house was replaced in 1975 with the present 15’x15′ R-6 flat cab, though the roof has since been modified. The lookout used to be in active service, typically staffed in the summer months. It was nominated to the National Historic Lookout Register on July 1, 1995. Alpine lookout sits atop Nason Ridge and with 1,150′ of clean prominence, it has a fantastic vantage point of the Enchantments, Glacier Peak, Mount Rainier, and Lake Wenatchee. The route. Distance (RT): 10 miles Elevation Gain: 2,600′ Summit Elevation: 6,235′ There are several creative and longer ways you can reach Alpine Lookout but the most direct route is via the Round Mountain trail. The trail starts in forest and crosses a small spring, which may be the only water source. The climb is steep before breaking out into an area heavily burned in the mid-1980s. In about 1.6 miles, the trail reaches a junction with the Nason Ridge Trail. Turn left and enjoy the views down to Lake Wenatchee. The trail traverses the side of Round Mountain, meandering through forest and wildflower filled meadows in July and August. The path narrows over exposed Nine-mile saddle and comes to a junction. To the left, the Nason Ridge trail heads down to Merritt Lake. Follow the trail to the right and climb 250′ over about a half mile to arrive at the lookout. The summit has plenty of room to spread out and explore and is also home to a mountain top helipad. The true summit is 100 yards east of the lookout, marked with a flag or pole. Don’t be surprised if you see mountain goats here as they’re known to frequent the area, just remember to give them plenty of space. 2022-08-14 15:33