Hiking the Tiger Mountain Trail
Hiking the Tiger Mountain Trail
Hiking the Tiger Mountain Trail is a remarkable outdoor experience for both locals and visitors in Seattle. This beloved trail system showcases the lush wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, offering breathtaking views and robust hiking options. With its proximity to the city, it provides a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts seeking adventure without straying too far from urban amenities.
Adventure Guide To Hiking the Tiger Mountain Trail
- Tiger Mountain Trailhead: Located off Highway 18 near Issaquah, the main trailhead provides access to several trails, including the popular West Tiger #3 Trail. This trail is renowned for its stunning views of Mt. Rainier and the surrounding mountains. It's well-marked and maintained, making it suitable for various skill levels.
- Talus Loop Trail: This 1.5-mile loop is an excellent option for families and those looking for a less strenuous hike. Located near the main trailhead, it features unique rock formations and lush vegetation. The trail also provides access to picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing.
- West Tiger #1 Trail: For seasoned hikers, this 3.5-mile trek challenges adventurers with steeper inclines. The ascent rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Seattle skyline and Lake Washington at its summit. The trail is popular for its diverse terrain and the chance to see various wildlife species.
Local Insights
Tiger Mountain has historical significance as part of the Issaquah Alps, a crucial green space area that reflects community conservation efforts. Many locals appreciate its role in preserving the region's natural beauty and promoting outdoor activities.
Visitor Tips
- Best times to visit: Spring through early fall offers the best hiking conditions, with wildflowers in bloom and clearer weather.
- What to bring: Always carry water, snacks, sturdy hiking boots, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
- Driving directions: From downtown Seattle, drive east along I-90, then take Highway 18 toward Issaquah. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes.
This structure not only ensures a fulfilling outdoor adventure but also highlights the natural beauty and cultural significance of hiking in the Seattle area.
Adventure Map
Seattle Info
No GPX info
Reviews
Brian Hansena year ago
Nice trail that is more quite then others on Tiger mountain. Trail I took was well groomed for 1.5 miles then it was slightly overgrown. I wish I had worn pants. There was no bathroom at the trailhead as another reviewer suggested. About 10 actual parking spaces but there is road shoulder that can be parked on. Start of the trail can be difficult to spot so I included a photo.
_ilya7 months ago
Great views and hike if you like elevation gain
Explore_your_brewpnwa year ago
This hike will take you from highway 18 to highpoint via the TMT trail. The trailhead is marked with a simple post and a sign at the gate telling you that certain points of the trail are closed. This Tru but only after you reach the base of tiger 1.
Instead of trekking around the base of the different mountains like this trail has you do- we opted to go down via West Tiger #3. This route has you go around the different peaks and doesn't allow for much in terms of viewpoints. In addition, if you choose to do this route you will also eventually reach a portion of the trail blocked by downed trees and will have to find your way around via scrambles and off-trail routes. Not impossible, but not fun either. Recommend going straight through to No. 3 until logging is complete
Nick Long9 months ago
Street parking was easy, took us a little under 4 hours including lunch. Wish I brought more water but the views were amazing and more than half of the trail was lush and shaded. Was difficult but highly recommend.
Kitty Meowmeow4 months ago
Well I live fairly close as in I live in fairwood so I had driven past this place a number of times.
Was astounded at some negative reviews one person made up stories about garbage and lives over 235 miles away...?? But they didn't even know the name of the area?? Seriously I recommend anyone seeing 1 or 2 star reviews to look those people up.
Sooo this place is ok. It has an ok parking area. And as is usual loots of bikers and motor vehicle riders like to go to this kind of place. As such the trails are getting ruined by the heavy vehicles. But aside from that itsxa nice hike. The view is ok and yes this place gets packed but then again it's close to many residential homes. So that's to be expected. It's an easy hike. Not to bad and a good place to bring your family. Everyone who goes there is pretty nice. And contrary to the above post about garbage and diapers there isn't any at all. They have a nice restroom too. I was surprised at that.
