Heybrook Lookout

Star4.39
56 reviews
PO Box 305, Skykomish, WA, 98288, USA
Scenic Views

Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The lookout is open ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Skykomish Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Heybrook Lookout
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rate for the lookout is $75 per night between May 1 and October 31. Additional fees include $10 cancellation fee, $10 change fee, and...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$75.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 56 reviews

286 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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"User reviews for Heybrook Lookout are overwhelmingly positive, with most praising the stunning views, well-furnished cabin, and unique experience of staying in a historic fire lookout. However, some users highlight challenges such as disturbances from day hikers, limited privacy, and concerns about vehicle security at the trailhead parking area."

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Campground Map

PO Box 305, Skykomish, WA, 98288, USA

Heybrook Lookout

PO Box 305, Skykomish, WA, 98288, USA

Driving directionsDrive 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.
Road access is limited to parking near the trailhead off U.S. Highway 2. Guests must hike 1 mile uphill with a 900-foot elevation gain, making it less accessible for individuals with severe mobility impairments. The trail may be impacted by snow in October, requiring caution.
Nearby places
Index (2 miles, ~5 minutes), Skykomish (15 miles, ~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Skykomish (~15 miles away), with general stores and fuel stations. For post-hike food, visitors recommend Zeke's Drive-In near Index.

Best Time to Camp at Heybrook Lookout

The magic of Heybrook shifts with the seasons, each offering its own rewards. Peak season brings gentle mountain breezes and crystal-clear skies ideal for stargazing and sunrise photography. As autumn arrives, morning fog may wrap the tower in mystical clouds, while winter's approach can dust the trail with snow, creating a wonderland for the intrepid. Summer weekends buzz with fellow adventurers seeking their own piece of paradise, so midweek visits offer a more serene experience.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Clear skies and good weather, but heavy weekend crowds and day hikers noted by reviewers.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 2% in WA

Fall visits highlighted for peace, solitude and excellent colors/views in reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open starting May; late-spring snow can affect access but views and wildlife are good.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Lookout is closed outside May 1–Oct 31; winter access and snow limit stays.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 - October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The lookout is open for reservations from May 1 to October 31. Snow may impact access in late season.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal snow and weather updates may affect access; guests are advised to contact the ranger station before arrival.

About Heybrook Lookout

Perched dramatically atop a ridge at 1,700 feet, Heybrook Lookout invites adventurous souls to sleep among the clouds in a historic fire tower. This extraordinary 67-foot tower crowns the forest canopy, revealing a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of glacial peaks and untamed wilderness. Your home for the night is a cozy 14x14-foot cabin in the sky, thoughtfully equipped with a propane stove, comfortable furnishings, and sleeping arrangements for up to four guests—perfect for an unforgettable escape above the everyday world.
The Heybrook Lookout offers a unique camping experience within a historic fire lookout tower. The cabin is available for reservation and provides basic accommodations for up to four guests.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in is flexible but requires key pickup from Skykomish Ranger Station during operating hours.
Check-out
  • Check-out time depends on reservation terms
  • no specific time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 2 nights.

Amenities available

Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Heybrook Lookout offers a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and birding. The site’s elevated location provides stunning views of surrounding peaks and the Wild Sky Wilderness. Nearby attractions include the Deception Falls Picnic Area and the Lake Serene/Bridal Veil Falls hikes. The lookout’s popularity as a hiking destination means that day hikers frequently visit.
HikingThe hike to Heybrook Lookout is 1 mile long with an elevation gain of 900 feet, described by users as 'short but steep' and a 'steady uphill walk.' The trail is heavily trafficked, and some reviews note issues with litter and disturbances from hikers.
Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant, with possible sightings of black bears, bobcats, elk, and bald eagles. Wolves are making a comeback in the area and can sometimes be heard.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential dangers include wildlife encounters, steep trails, and vandalism at trailhead parking overnight. Hiking down in rain may be slippery and risky.
Active AlertsSeasonal snow and weather updates may affect access; guests are advised to contact the ranger station before arrival.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Heybrook Lookout

Reviews

4.4
56 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Heybrook Lookout is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Heybrook Lookout are overwhelmingly positive, with most praising the stunning views, well-furnished cabin, and unique experience of staying in a historic fire lookout. However, some users highlight challenges such as disturbances from day hikers, limited privacy, and concerns about vehicle security at the trailhead parking area.
Review Summaries
Based on 56 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests frequently mention the incredible views, well-stocked amenities, and the charm of the historic lookout. Comments like 'absolutely stunning!' and 'the panoramic views and the sunset were...
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Based on 56 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include frequent disturbances from day hikers, lack of privacy, and occasional issues with vandalism or litter. Some users also report concerns about car break-ins at the trailhead.
Based on 56 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users suggest bringing adequate water, locking the trapdoor to the cabin for security, and avoiding summer weekends to minimize disturbances. Several recommend visiting during inclement weather for a...
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Based on 56 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall and winter visits are noted for their peace and solitude, while summer weekends can be heavily crowded. Guests also mention that early snow in October might impact accessibility, and clear skies...
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Based on 56 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This was a great Lookout. Wish we had done more stairs to prepare for the 8 flights up to the top, but we survived.' - Katherine G. 2. 'Heybrook lookout is simply awesome to experience sunset,...
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Based on 56 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Heybrook Lookout is the only site available at this facility. Reviews specifically of the lookout highlight its charm and unique accommodations, but also emphasize the need for security and...
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Based on 56 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited due to the steep hike and stairs required to reach the cabin. Guests with mobility challenges may find the site difficult to access.
Based on 56 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed in the lookout or on the stairs, as stated in the official rules. No specific reviews about pet-related experiences were provided.
Based on 56 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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