Hiking the Issaquah Alps
September 6th, 2010 | By: Nancy Belur
Hiking Tiger Mountain provides something for everyone.
A couple of hikers pose for a photo by Lake Tradition
Living in the foothills of the Cascades offers Issaquah and Sammamish residents ample opportunity to enjoy nature. Cougar, Squak, and Tiger Mountains present a patchwork of year-round trails, scenery, and interest.
With nearly 80 miles of trails, Tiger Mountain affords generous options to explore. A foray here will take you to a working forest where thought is given to environmental and ecological preservation as well as recreation. Trail and interpretive signage contributes to ease of use and an understanding of the area.
For an introduction to Tiger Mountain, start at the Tradition Plateau trailhead. Following the main pathway, at the West Tiger #3/Bus Trail marker, opt for the Bus Trail. After crossing the bridge, watch for a small trail marker on a tree that will direct you to the Nook Trail. In 1 mile this narrow path leads to the Talus Rocks, elevation 1,100 feet. If taken leisurely, the route will appeal to any hiker capable of managing a couple of moderately steep climbs. Adding to the trail’s charm are a wooden footbridge and, depending on the season, a babbling brook, a variety of mosses and blossoms, and occasional wildlife sightings. The large glacial boulders at the end point are rewarding, and for those with vivid imaginations, their shadows may conjure up a story or two. On the day I visited, a couple of youngsters equipped with flashlights looked like they were hoping to make a big discovery.
After visiting the rocks, head back down the same way you came. (As an alternative, you can follow the loop and head down the Talus Rock Trail and West Tiger #3, a route that is wider and busier.) When you encounter the Bus Trail, go right to return to the parking lot or left to continue on your adventure for another 0.8 mile. Going left will put you within a short distance of a rusty old abandoned bus, which begs the question “How did that get here?” At the fork of the Trail Connector keep right to join the Around the Lake loop, and at the next sign turn right once more. Meander on this footpath and listen for the sounds of the forest (I’ve heard a woodpecker make its presence known), or pause at the overlook platform to view Lake Tradition’s display of unveiled water lilies—a peaceful visual before returning to a busy parking lot.
Tiger Mountain has something for everyone. If you would like a bit more challenge, there are trails with elevation and expansive vistas. If you are seeking solitude, break away from the most heavily traveled paths of the Tradition Plateau or West Tiger #3. If you have little ones, there is the magic of the Swamp Creek boardwalk and its accompanying interactive nature story or the fascination of the Ruth Kees Big Tree, one of the largest Douglas firs in the area.
Entertain the notion of visiting nature and expect to be delighted.
Getting there: From I-90 heading eastbound, take exit 20. Turn right off the exit and then right onto the road paralleling I-90. Proceed to the parking lot past the gate (West Tiger Mountain/Tradition Plateau National Resources Conservation Area) for another 0.4 mile to the Tradition Plateau trailhead. Be certain to lock all valuables in the trunk.
Trail length: Approximately 3 miles and 1½ to 2 hours.
