Index

The last stop in Snohomish County on your way east on the Stevens Pass Greenway is Index, a charming small town beneath jagged peaks on the north fork of the Skykomish River. One mile off of Highway 2, 21 miles east of Monroe and about 25 miles west of Steven's Pass, Index is nestled deep in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. With the Skykomish River on one side and Mount Index on the other, Index is surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks that rise over 5,000 feet from the valley floor. The town was founded by Amos and Persis Gunn, who platted the townsite on their mining claim in 1893. This picturesque community got its peculiar name from two homesteaders in the area in the late 1800's who thought one mountain peak in particular looked like an index finger; and so the town began referring to itself as Index. Incorporated in 1907, the town boasts the title of being the smallest town in Western Washington! Index is a great base camp for any Cascade Mountain adventure, including white water rafting, rock climbing, steelhead fishing and hiking. Hiking enthusiasts will want to experience the renowned Pacific Crest Trail at Stevens Pass where excellent downhill skiing can be also be enjoyed.