HEYBROOK LOOKOUT

WESTERN WASHINGTON

Summary

Short and sweet are the words to best describe this mini hike off of HWY 2. It packs in the elevation with a steady climb up to the tower.

Trail Stats

Mileage: 2 miles RT

Elevation Gain: 980 feet

Toilet at trailhead: No

Sandwich Spots: At the top

Parking: Technically, yes

Mileage/EG from WTA.com

Trail Details

Merely two miles in length, this trail would not count as a proper hike, in my opinion, except for the elevation gain in such a short time. Just under 1K feet in a mile is respectable. That being said, it’s a long drive for a total of two miles. But, if you happen to be driving past, stop. The views are incredible.

Parking is provided in the form of a moderately sized pull out off HWY 2. That being said, absolutely do not leave anything valuable in your vehicle. Or even anything visible. Let’s not tempt the unscrupulous. Sadly, they exist. Shame on those prowlers.

The trail briefly follows the road and then heads up. Pretty much straight up the hillside. There are minimal switchbacks on this one. The one and only time we hiked this trail, we ran into a lovely lady who had just moved to the area. She was struggling with each step and was rather sure she was dying. The lady was considerably concerned that all hikes in Western Washington were going to be this monstrously steep. She was uncertain she could hike much if they all were. We were able to reassure her in that regard, there are plenty hikes without dramatic elevation. At least the trail is remarkably well maintained.

There are plenty of large rocks in the path, consequently steps are of varying height and length. While slogging up the trail, enjoy the tree’s. That’s all you’ll really see until just before reaching the tower. Here views open up, encompassing the mountains of Stevens Pass. They are breathtaking.

When you reach the tower, it is open to climb. Do it. You didn’t come this far to pansy out over a bunch of stairs. Never really understood that expression. Pansy’s are remarkable hardy flowers. And such vibrant happy little things. I like them.

Up the tower lays amazing views. One can potentially spot Bridal Veil falls on a nice day. Perfect sandwich spot. You can’t actually venture into the cabin on top, unless you reserve it overnight. How fun would that be? Killer morning views while sipping piping hot coffee.