Desolation Peak
Rockport, Washington
Going by the name alone, Desolation Peak doesn't really sound like the type of place you'd be jazzed to visit. But those who know their literary history know otherwise. Set 6,102 feet above sea level, this remote spot in North Cascades National Park played host to Jack Kerouac for 63 days in 1956, as the noted author served as a U.S. Forest Service fire lookout and otherwise used his time to work on The Dharma Bums. Unfortunately for you, Kerouac's post/cabin/shanty isn't open to the public, but that doesn't mean you can't make the 23-or-so mile hike up yourself to take in the inspirational views of the surrounding peaks.
Photos: North Cascades National Park, Mike Haeg
