If you are short on time and looking for a hike close to Seattle, Heybrook Lookout may be the one for you! It’s a short and sweet hike, but don’t let the mileage fool you; it’s a workout. Heybrook Lookout trail will get your heart rate up, and you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Cascades. That’s not all, though; a fun surprise awaits at the top of the ridge: a lookout tower!
I love doing this hike with my kids (ages 5 and 8) because the steep trail leads to a fire lookout you can climb. The tall tower is one of the closest lookouts to Seattle, and one of only 106 lookouts left in Washington state. Tip: Go on a weekday. The trail is popular given the proximity to the city and the short distance. You will likely not be hiking alone.
Almost there! Climbing the final stretch to Heybrook Lookout, one of Washington’s few fire towers open to the public. (Image: Kathryn Mueller)
What’s a “Peak Treat”?
When I pick trails to do with my little ones, I try to find trails with peak treats. What is a peak treat? I’m glad you asked. Hiking with kids can sometimes be challenging, but I’ve found that if there are fun milestones or attractions along the way, they keep their boots moving toward a goal. Heybrook Lookout offers just that! If you’re brave enough to ascend the stairs leading up the 67-foot lookout tower, you will see sweeping views of the mountains all around, including Mt. Index.
Making their way up the Heybrook Lookout trail — short but steep and full of forest magic. (Image: Kathryn Mueller)
What To Expect on the Trail
Heybrook Lookout trail meanders through dense wooded forests. From the trailhead, you’ll cross a cute wooden walkway and immediately begin climbing into the woods. The trail itself is known for its relatively steep ascent. My biggest tip is to take your time. It’s a short trail, only about 2 miles, but it gains nearly 1,000 feet in elevation, so it’ll feel like a lot. I always pack trail treats. If my little ones start to slow, I’ll pull out a pack of Sour Patch Kids or another favorite sweet to keep them motivated.
Big roots, little hikers — the forest trail to Heybrook Lookout is full of fun terrain to explore. (Image: Kathryn Mueller)
There are also large boulders along the way, which are really neat for kids. My little wanderers wanted to climb all the rocks. Be prepared for a step-like climb. As you stroll uphill, you will encounter switchback steps and rooted terrain, so watch your footing.
One of my favorite things about this trail (aside from the super cool lookout) is the trees. I love walking alongside the statuesque giants that reach up toward the sky. It’s such a lovely, tranquil trail.
The adventure begins on the wooden walkway at Heybrook Lookout. (Image: Kathryn Mueller)
When you reach the top, take in the sights, enjoy a picnic, and rest your legs. You can climb the stairs of the lookout to get a better vantage of the mountains all around. Please note, though, that people stay in the lookout, so don’t try to open the hatch at the top. If you want to try to camp there, you must book a reservation in advance. It’s hard to get, but you can try at recreation.gov.
Made it to the top! A wave from the Heybrook Lookout tower after the big climb. (Image: Kathryn Mueller)
Getting There From Seattle
From Seattle, the trip is pretty straightforward. If you have traveled on Highway 2 near Index, WA, you have likely seen a parade of cars lined up on the side of the road near an innocuous trailhead at milepost 37. The parking area is just past the iconic coffee stand, Espresso Chalet, a popular pit stop for travelers, and offers gorgeous views of Bridal Veil Falls and the towering Mt. Index. Once you pass the coffee shop, get ready to pull over.
Smiles all around from the top of Heybrook Lookout, one of Washington’s most scenic family hikes. (Image: Kathryn Mueller)
Know Before You Go
- Location: Heybrook Trail Lookout, 313 9th St, Gold Bar, WA 98251
- There are no bathrooms at the trailhead. Bring a potty or stop by a nearby town to use the restroom.
- Get to the trail early to get a parking space.
- If you want to extend your trip, you can add on a nearby hike as well. Bridal Veil Falls isn’t far, and it’s a beautiful hike to a truly spectacular waterfall.
- There are a couple of picnic tables just below the lookout tower, so pack a lunch to enjoy at the top of the ridge.
- No parking pass is required. The hike is dog-friendly.
Heybrook Lookout is just one of many great family trails. Explore 7 more easy and kid-friendly hikes to keep your little explorers moving.
