This is a very pleasant trail. The parking lot sits on Index-Galena Road, so getting there is no problem. I arrived about about noon on a Sunday in summer. There were 4 cars in a parking lot that can hold 20 or more cars. There is no privy at the trailhead. There is a public restroom across the bridge in Index in the Doolittle Pioneer Park. After crossing the bridge over the river and reaching the stop sign, the park is on your left. There is also a convenience store on your right. After the hike, the trip back to the Seattle area was tedious. It took 1 hour to go the 14.5 miles from Index to Sultan. It was a harsh reminder that US 2 westbound can be a parking lot on Sundays in summer and on the last day of holiday weekends.
The trail climbs most of its length through multiple switchbacks. The incline is usually not too steep, but there are short sections where it is very steep. The trail is generally in good condition, but there are short sections where the dirt and gravel are loose. The bugs were not too bad. The day was very hot, but there was a nice breeze most of the way up the trail There were a few wildflowers towards the top of the trail: fireweed, foxglove and others. The forest protects the trail from direct sun most of the way, but not at the top, where there is very little shade. You cross under high voltage power lines near the top. The view point is just on the other side of the power lines. The view is primarily of the peaks surrounding the South Skykomish River valley.
Heybrook Ridge County Park is a worthwhile addition to the list of available trails in Western Washington. Thanks to the Friends of Heybrook Ridge and Snohomish County Parks for creating this delightful hike. For more information, click the link below to go to the website of the Friends of Heybrook Ridge.
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