Our Mission
"The Friends of Heybrook Ridge intend to work with Snohomish County and community partnerships in order to preserve flora and fauna of the ridge in perpetuity and to develop recreational and focused learning experiences for a diverse population. Development of educational experiences may include production of interpretive programs and signage, works of art, classes for all educational levels, or other initiatives that will enhance the experience of Heybrook Ridge visitors."
Relics of the logging industry of the early 1900s offer learning opportunities, like this remnant of the sled runner of a steam donkey (center photo), and the scars of cables (on left) and springboards (on right) that are still visible on old growth stumps. Photos by Ann Darlington.
Positive Impacts
The 166 acres of Snohomish County's newest park hold abundant potential benefits to all of us.
When its trailhead and trails are developed, HRCP will become a key link between public lands in and around the Town of Index.
Public access will be continuous from the Reiter Foothills Forest through the Forks of the Sky State Park and its Lower Town Wall, along the Crescent Trail into Index and it's Doolittle Park, up Heybrook Park's trails to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest lands and the Heybrook Lookout Tower, and from there deeper into the Wild Sky Wilderness Area.
The County's newest park would thus become a gateway to the State's newest Wilderness Area.
A new system of hiking trails with magnificent mountain and valley views.
Opportunities for family outings in an alpine setting within 60 miles of Seattle.
A destination hike for artists and photographers seeking mixed forest lands and mountain vistas.
Continued growth of the forest to prevent excessive water run-off during heavy rains, thereby moderating river flow and minimizing flooding which affects downstream communities.
Enhancement of the forest's natural function of absorbing excess rain, thereby helping to protect spawning areas for fish.
A new destination for travelers who want to learn about natural history (eco-tourism) and the history of the people in the area (cultural tourism).
Increased business throughout the valley through services needed for tourism - from restaurants to overnight accommodations.
A multiplying effect for businesses such as rafting companies and “Bed and Breakfast” establishments as they form partnerships to offer tourism “packages.”
Opportunity for local heritage groups and the Tulalip Tribes to share the history of Native Americans, miners, loggers, the railroads and community development.
Ecological restoration classes held in the “living laboratory” of a 100-year-old, second-growth forest.
Interpretive signage along trails designed for multiple levels of education, giving cultural and natural history information, including geological development of the area.
An outdoor “classroom” for students of all ages, from local elementary through post-graduate.
Friends of Heybrook Ridge
P.O. Box 265
Index, WA 98256
[email protected]
Friends of Heybrook Ridge is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Our Federal ID is 51-0629374.
Contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by the law.