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2017 Map of Index

Name: 2017 Topographic Map of Index
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2017
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2017

About this map

The town of Index sits at the confluence of the North Fork Skykomish River and the South Fork Skykomish River, serving as a gateway to the high peaks of the Snoqualmie National Forest. This 2017 study illustrates the dramatic elevation changes of the western Cascades, where the river valley floor is hemmed in by massive landmarks like Mt Index, Mt Persis, and Philadelphia Mtn. The hydrology of the region is a central focus, featuring the series of cataracts along the South Fork including Eagle Falls, Canyon Falls, and Sunset Falls.

High-altitude water bodies like Lake Isabel and Lake Serene are connected to the valley floor by steep drainages, with the latter located just below the famous Bridal Veil Falls. For those interested in local industry and infrastructure, the map details the Reiter-Skykomish Rearing Ponds and the North Fork Skykomish River Bridge, alongside the small settlement of Halford further downriver. A complex network of Forest Service roads, such as Index Galena Rd and Reiter Rd, provides access into the surrounding mountain ridges.