Glorious views from Heybrook Lookout (often without snow)

Trailhead location: Two miles east of Index, on Stevens Pass Highway.

Length/Elevation: Two miles round trip; 800 feet at trailhead, climbing to 1,700 feet at overlook (900-foot elevation gain).

Level of difficulty: Moderately steep dirt/gravel trail; muddy in winter, use caution on the return trip as trail can be slippery. On a recent visit, there were several small downed trees across the trail (easy to step over).

Setting: This relatively low-elevation trail that climbs through a verdant Northwest forest often allows access to the mountains when high-country trails are snowed in. Keep your ear attuned to the weather report (and check trail conditions on the Forest Service's Web site) and when the snow level climbs above several thousand feet, this trail may be free of snow. The dense second-growth forest helps shield the trail — on an afternoon hike on the snowy Saturday two weeks ago, there was a pretty dusting of the white stuff on the ground and surrounding mountains, but the trail was clear (though muddy — wear hiking boots).

The relatively steep climb bears the marks of a lot of trail work; multiple rivulets running down the hillside are diverted under rock bridges and into pretty little channels. Eventually, as you climb up on the shoulder of Heybrook Ridge, the slope moderates and the forest understory thins, then the trail emerges into the open just below the fire-lookout tower.

Highlights: From the top of the 67-foot lookout, you have an almost 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Across the highway to the south is Mount Index (Bridal Veil Falls may be visible below it), while over your left shoulder is double-peaked Baring Mountain. The sturdy tower was rebuilt by the Everett Mountaineers and is well-swathed in fencing, so parents should feel comfortable taking even small children up for a look.

Facilities: None.

Restrictions: Leash and scoop laws in effect. NW Forest Pass required for parking at trailhead.

Directions: Take Highway 2 east from Monroe. After passing the left turnoff to the town of Index, continue 2 miles to milepost 37.5 and park in the large parking lot on the left (look for the large Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest sign on the right). The trailhead is at the western end of the lot.

For more information: 800-627-0062 or 360-677-2414 (Skykomish Ranger Office) or www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs (check trail conditions under the Highway 2 section).

Get the new free "Hiking in Snohomish County" brochure, which includes this hike: Download from www.snohomish.org, pick one up at a Snohomish County Visitor Information Center, or call toll-free, 888-338-0976, to have one mailed to you.