Heybrook Lookout
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
The Heybrook Lookout sits atop its namesake ridge at 1,700 feet. The lookout itself rises 67 feet above the ridgeline and provides spectacular views of breathtaking glacial peaks surrounding the valley. The first Heybrook fire lookout was a simple tent platform built in 1925. The Forest Service replaced it seven years later with a 45-foot log leg tower, with a ground-level cabin intended as sleeping quarters for fire rangers; however, rampant rodents eventually drove the rangers up into the tower where they lived until a 67-foot lookout was built in 1964. Heybrook Lookout is one of only 106 lookouts left in Washington State.
The 14 x14-ft. lookout cabin sleeps four and is furnished with one twin-sized bed with mattress, two additional floor mattresses, a table and chairs, propane stove, pot, pan, silverware, coffee pot and battery operated lanterns. A primitive vault toilet is located several hundred feet down the ridge from the lookout. There is a picnic table at the bottom of the tower. There is no water at the site. Guests must bring water for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests must also bring flashlights, sleeping bags, towels, dish soap, matches, a first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving
Need to Know
Reservations cannot be made for more than 2 days in a row. Entry to the lookout is by key, which must be obtained from the Skykomish Ranger Station.
- Water is not available; guests must bring their own supply of water.
- Extreme caution must be taken when using lanterns, cook stoves or any other appliances with open flame (candles and incense is prohibited).
- Pack out all food and garbage and clean the facility before you leave. Keep the building and grounds clean to deter squirrel, mice, rats, bears and other wildlife from area.
- Please do not let pets roam freely, as they may endanger wildlife and plants or themselves. Pets are not allowed in the lookout or on the stairs.
- Access to the lookout in October may be impacted by early snow. Please check with the ranger station for current conditions.
Doors and windows should be locked and all personal items removed upon departure.
- The cabin is a no-smoking facility.
Contact the Skykomish Ranger District at (360) 677-2414 prior to arrival to check on any restrictions or conditions, such as fire or road closures, weather or storms that may affect your visit. Once a reservation has been made, each party is responsible for contacting the ranger station to make arrangements to pick up their key.
Click here for more information about Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
- Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Natural Features
On a clear day, guests at Heybrook Lookout see views of Mount Index and Bridal Veil Falls, Mount Baring, Mount Persis and the Wild Sky Wilderness.
Wildlife is abundant, and guests may catch a glimpse of black bears, bobcat, elk or bald eagle. Wolves are making a comeback to the area, but they are usually heard and not seen.
Nearby Attractions
Deception Falls Picnic Area, Lake Serene/Bridal Veil Falls hikes, and the Iron Goat historic interpretive trail.
Recreation
Hiking, birding and wildlife viewing are popular activities around the lookout.
Contact Information
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PO Box 305 Skykomish WA 98288
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 360-677-2414
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Drive U.S. 2 for 2 miles east of the town of Index, just past milepost 37. Limited parking for the trailhead is located on the north side of the highway across from the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest sign.
From the trailhead, it is a 1 mile hike to the lookout with an elevation gain of 900 feet. Tenants must climb 84 steps in order to reach the main cabin.
