Dog-friendly hiking in Issaquah
April 27th, 2010 | By: Denise Stringfellow
Issaquah has many great trails to explore with your four-leg friend.
Sarah and “Hunter”, and Amanda and “Baio” hit the Wilderness Creek trail.
Remember that New Year’s resolution you made? You know the one about getting more exercise? With March Madness long over and spring weather that has been especially pleasant, there is no excuse not to get outside. So why not grab your dog and explore some of our community’s best trails?
One of the best, most dog-friendly trails is West Tiger Mountain. Frequented by hikers of all shapes and sizes, this is a perfect trail for people with young to year-old puppies who need to see lots of different kinds of people and equipment, such as canes, hats, and backpacks. Puppies rewarded with a treat when these hikers appear are well on their way to being beautifully friendly and having excellent coping skills. One note of caution, however: even if your dog is on a leash, there are often a few who are not. The trailhead is just east of town, at the High Point Way exit off I-90. With more than 80 miles of trails, great views, and everything from wooded strolls to serious climbing, West Tiger has something for every dog and handler.
Closer to town is Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. The Wilderness Creek trailhead, just off SR 900 (Renton-Issaquah Road NE) is a favorite. It’s small and a little less crowded, and gets steep pretty quickly, so it’s a good workout. You can do just a short hike or spend the whole day by connecting to other Cougar Mountain trails. There are little bridges and creeks to cross, and lots of switchbacks. Special notes: We’ve seen a lot of deer up there, and an occasional bear, and you must stay on the trails due to the mining history of the region.
Even if your primary purpose is to get out and get some exercise, don’t forget the fun things you can be working on with your dog along the way. Teaching your dog to wear a backpack and to walk behind you while passing others on the trail is great exercise for your pet’s mind and body. Wearing a backpack not only aids in carrying supplies, but also helps more energetic dogs stay calm and focused. We recommend packs like those from Outward Hound, which are made with detachable Velcro-fastened storage bags that come off easily if the dog becomes entangled in anything on the trail.
Always be sure to carry basic supplies on the trail, such as a small first-aid kit, waste bags, treats, water, and a collapsible bowl, along with a leash, cellphone, and pocketknife. A whistle is always a good idea, as is Spray Shield, an alternative to pepper spray that shoots a stream of citronella oil up to 10 feet. It won’t stop a bear, but it’s a safe and harmless way to discourage unwelcome threats from other dogs and smaller wildlife.
Happy hiking!
