Heybrook Lookout

This was a great Lookout. Wish we had done more stairs to prepare for the 8 flights up to the top, but we survived. The lookout itself is well stocked with cleaning supplies, reading materials, some puzzles and some games. There is one full size mattress on the bed frame, and two twin mattresses stored under the bed. Most of the furniture is bolted into the walls / floor - we noticed a number of ants under one bookcase, but were unable to move it to clean under it / behind it.
As gets mentioned frequently - this is a popular day hike destination, and you should expect visitors to the observation platform below both late at night and early in the morning (we stayed on a Monday night which I thought would be less crowded, but we had a group of 8 at 10 PM, and then around 20 by 5:30 AM). Luckily for us, our visitors were very quiet / respectful - we could definitely hear that they were there, but I wouldn't have considered them any worse than a crowded campground this time of year. The trapdoor has a large bolt from above, and the actual door locks - so I never felt the visitor situation was unsafe.
We were fascinated by the log entries from the Bolt Creek firefighters last fall - most simply wrote names / companies, but there were some real entries and it was fascinating to see all the places that sent responders to help with the fire. So cool! Though the lookout needs a new / bigger log.
As someone else mentioned - there is a bizarre amount of toilet paper leading to the pit toilet - not sure what's the story there. We enjoyed exploring the forest service road up top.

We had a very pleasant stay at the glass house in the clouds. The weather didn't exactly cooperate. But even with the clouds and the rain, we still had beautiful view of the nearby mountains.

Wonderful hike with my son. We were beat by the time we made the ridgetop but well worth it. The lookout cools down quickly once you open the windows, and the view was unbelievable.

This location serves as the ultimate vantage point, offering breathtaking views. However, it is crucial to be aware that it has become incredibly popular among day hikers. They flock to the viewing platform at all hours, sometimes leaving behind graffiti. Witnessing people neglecting the care of this lookout saddened us. It is essential to remember the principle of "Leave No Trace" and preserve these special places.

Our day hike to Bridal Veil Falls and Serene Lake was truly rewarding. Although one downside was the realization that we had to hike back up to the lookout afterwards, making it a double workout! On the bright side, make sure to visit Zeke's Drive In for some post-hike refueling. Their french dip burger and shakes are undeniably amazing.

We had this reservation for Memorial Day weekend Saturday. It was busy when we got there, but we didn’t have as many visitors as I thought we would, but that’s due to not having any views after 5pm the first night until the rest of our stay. Unfortunately we got fogged in. However, before the fog hit, we had the most incredible views which made this lookout one of our favorites. We still had several groups climbing the tower very aggressively which feels very unsteady when you’re sitting in the top. I wish we were able to take the road up to the tower in our vehicle if we have a stay. I felt very uncomfortable parking ours on the highway parking lot. I’ve heard of break ins so I was praying we wouldn’t have any problems during our stay. We made a do not disturb sign, but it looks like others beat us to it, so we were able to hang the sign up for our stay. There are report of people aggressively trying to get into the lookout around 6am so I really didn’t want to be scared awake. I really would like to get another reservation for this lookout, hopefully when there’s 0 fog, but I don’t think I’ll like the crowds that come with it. It’s definitely a give and take situation with this lookout. Yes, the views are incredible, but wow the constant flow of people is very hard to deal with.

Pretty great lookout but at the end of a very trafficked trail. So much TP and trash on the trail to the toilet, what a bummer! Be prepared to share the space with others hiking out for the views and instagram pics from the top of the tower. The tower itself is open to the public, and the lookout is private. Some folks are curious and mischievous enough to try to open the latch and join you in the lookout! Be sure to lock the latch! I will be looking for a more remote lookout next time. Great views though!

Beautiful. Loved that it was heated. Wonderful views!

Heybrook lookout is simply awesome to experience sunset, moonrise, moonset, nature and everything in-between. The only thing is you have no water source, but you get propane with 2 burner stove, heater and lot utensils for cooking. Bring some light source and enjoy. Be aware you need to walk around 1mile with around 1000 feet elevation and collect the keys to the cabin at ranger station located 15 miles from the trailhead.

Had a wonderful trip. Heybrook is a very unique camping experience. Remember to pack adequate water as there is no water source at the lookout.

Awesome lookout. Zero privacy. People screaming and climbing up at all hours despite the signage requesting privacy