Washington Vacation and Travel Ideas for Literary Tours

Desolation Peak Trail
North Cascades National Park
Washington
Website: http://www.nps.gov/noca/desolationpeak.htm
Email: - none listed
Phone: (360) 873-4500 ext. 39

Jack Kerouac (1922 - 1969), author of the Beat Generation classic On the Road (1957), worked at the Desolation Peak Trail as a lookout in 1956.  During that time, he wrote Desolation Angels, describing mountain peaks as "the void."  The trail is a steep hike where offering views of lake, meadows, and forest.  Wildlife such as bear, deer, cougar, and grouse can be found.  Charred trees remain along the trail, reminders of a devastating 1926 fire. The distance to the peak is a strenuous 6.8 miles.  Bring ample water supplies and know your limits.

Kerouac fans may also be interested in the Jack Kerouac Memorial in the Lowell National Historical Park in Lowell, Massachusetts.  For more information see , visit: http://www.nps.gov/lowe/kerouac.htm, or call: (978) 970-5000.

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