Why Heybrook Lookout is Special

Heybrook Lookout will always hold a special place in my heart because it’s the hike that made me fall in love with exploring the outdoors in Washington. Growing up, I didn’t do much hiking, but this trail completely changed that. It’s short, steep, and incredibly rewarding—making it a perfect beginner-friendly hike for anyone looking to start their hiking journey.

These are the views you can expect from the lookout tower.

Heybrook Lookout Trail Stats

Location: Near Index, Washington
Roundtrip Distance: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging (steep but short)
Best Season: Year-round (snow possible in winter)
Driving Distance from Seattle: ~1 hour

What to Expect on the Hike

The Heybrook Lookout Trail is short but intense. You’ll climb nearly 1,800 feet in just one mile, which means you’ll be tackling lots of switchbacks and steep sections right from the start. Don’t let that scare you though, the effort is worth it, and since the hike is only 2 miles roundtrip, you won’t be on the trail for long.

This makes Heybrook Lookout a fantastic option if you want a quick workout in nature with a big payoff.

The Lookout Tower and Views

At the top of the trail, you’ll find the historic Heybrook Lookout Tower. You can climb the tower for even better panoramic views—though it’s a lot of stairs after already climbing 1,800 feet! From the tower, you’ll see:

Mount Index
Mount Persis
Mount Baring
On clear days, spot Bridal Veil Falls cascading down Mount Index

The views are truly breathtaking and will make you forget about the steep climb it took to get there.

The lookout tower you can climb and even camp in!

Staying Overnight at Heybrook Lookout

Did you know the top floor of the lookout tower is a cabin you can actually rent? From May through October, the U.S. Forest Service offers the cabin as an overnight rental. Reservations can be made through recreation.gov.

After the Hike: Espresso Chalet

Once you make your way back down, don’t miss a stop at Espresso Chalet, located right by the trailhead. It’s the perfect spot to grab a post-hike coffee, enjoy more mountain views, and browse fun local merchandise.

Views from the coffee stand. There is a lot of seating so you can soak in the views with your coffee.

Why You Should Hike Heybrook Lookout

If you’re looking for a hike near Seattle that’s quick, steep, and rewarding, Heybrook Lookout is the perfect choice. It’s great for beginners who want to challenge themselves, and also for experienced hikers who just want a short adventure with epic views.

Highlights:

Only 2 miles roundtrip
Big mountain views for minimal time commitment
Historic lookout tower you can climb
Easy to reach from Seattle (just an hour away)

Final Thoughts

Heybrook Lookout is one of the best short hikes near Seattle and an amazing introduction to hiking in Washington. Yes, it’s steep, but the views of Mount Index, Mount Persis, and Mount Baring make every step worth it. Whether you’re just getting into hiking or you’re looking for a quick escape from the city, this trail deserves a spot on your Washington hiking bucket list.

Heybrook Lookout Trail Guide: A Short but Steep Hike Near Seattle