Seattle-bound after our Saturday hike to Barclay Lake and the base of Mount Baring, off Washington Route 2 (a.k.a. Stevens Pass Highway), we swang by the little town of Index, population 157. I used to really enjoy sitting in the side yard of the Index Tavern, frosty cool bev in hand, listening to the Skykomish River rush by, and gazing upward at beautiful Mount Index. Alas. The view's still there, and the tavern too, but it's closed down and for sale, a scarecrow on the roof. Hard times financially for the owner, I hear.

The Bush House, an historic lodge and dining room a stone's throw away, also in "downtown" Index, is shuttered too. It's in need of structural repairs. Entrepreneur alert: This cool little burg could use some investment.

Still, there's plenty to do on the way to or from a hike in the area. Visit the snakes and reptiles at the Washington Serpentarium, then Sky River Mead. Exotic snakes and honey wine (especially the dry mead); what a combo! To boot, Wave Treck in Index, founded in 1983, offers instruction and outings for white water rafters and kayakers. There are backwoods cabins and a few other lodgings in the area, as well. By the time you get to Index, you're out in the country, although it's just 45 miles northeast of Seattle.

Some people want to save independent bookstores. Yeah, well, good luck. I say, Somebody, please rescue The Index Tavern.

TECHNORATI TAGS: INDEX, STEVENS PASS

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Posted by Matt Rosenberg at September 12, 2005 12:24 PM