Tiger Mountain Trail
Embark on a Scenic Adventure at Tiger Mountain Trail
Tiger Mountain Trail: A Meandering Forest Escape
Explore the diverse forests and historical logging landscapes of Tiger Mountain on this lengthy, meandering trail.
The Tiger Mountain Trail offers a lengthy traverse through the heart of Tiger Mountain State Forest near Issaquah, Washington, inviting hikers, equestrians, and trail runners to explore its diverse forests and historical logging landscapes. Conceived in 1972 and completed in 1979, the TMT provides a 15+ mile wandering route, showcasing the natural beauty and remnants of early 20th-century logging operations [14].
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Tiger Mountain Trail
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
G2H6+7V, Issaquah, Washington, US
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Getting There
Driving
To access the Tiger Mountain Trail from Issaquah, head south on Front Street, which becomes Issaquah-Hobart Road [4]. Continue for approximately 8.5 miles, then turn left onto Tiger Mountain Road SE [4]. Limited parking is available along the shoulder of the road [4]. Be mindful of signage and avoid blocking access for other vehicles or residents. A Discover Pass is not required when parking on the shoulder [4]. Alternatively, to reach the High Point Trailhead, take I-90 east from Issaquah to Exit 20 [3, 7]. Turn right onto 270th Avenue SE, then immediately turn right again onto SE 79th Street [7]. Continue past the end of the paved road through a gate [7]. The parking area is about 0.5 miles up the gravel road on the left [7]. A Discover Pass is required [3, 8].
Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to the Tiger Mountain Trailhead, you can take a King County Metro bus to the Issaquah Transit Center or Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride [13, 17, 24]. From there, you would need to use a ride-sharing service or taxi to reach the trailhead, as the distance is considerable for walking [13, 17]. A single bus fare on King County Metro costs $2.75 and can be paid using an ORCA card or the Transit GO Ticket app [17]. Ride-sharing services from Issaquah Transit Center to the Tiger Mountain Trailhead typically range from $20-$30, depending on the time of day and availability.
Local tips
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A Discover Pass is required for parking at many Tiger Mountain Trailheads [3, 8]. Purchase one online or at various retailers.
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The TMT is a long trail; plan your hike accordingly with sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate gear [4, 8].
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Be aware that the first 4.5 miles of the TMT are shared with equestrian users [4]. Yield to horses and be prepared to step aside.
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Check trail conditions and closures before heading out, especially during the winter months [6]. Some trails may be subject to seasonal closures.
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Consider using a map and compass or a GPS device, as there are many intersecting trails in the area [7, 8].
Discover more about Tiger Mountain Trail
The Tiger Mountain Trail (TMT) presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush, varied terrain of Tiger Mountain State Forest [3, 14]. Unlike trails that lead directly to mountain summits, the TMT offers a meandering journey, stretching over 15 miles through deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forests [4]. This extensive trail system, completed in 1979, was designed to highlight the natural beauty of the area, while also providing access to the remants of early logging operations [14].
As you traverse the TMT, you'll encounter a landscape shaped by both natural processes and human activity [4, 11]. The trail passes near several high points, though it doesn't directly ascend any of them, allowing for a more gradual and extended exploration of the forest [4]. Keep an eye out for decaying stumps, relics from the area's logging past, and listen for the sounds of Holder Creek as the trail winds around South Tiger Mountain [4].
The TMT also offers a glimpse into the region's geological history [22]. Tiger Mountain was once a low-lying wetland where rivers met the sea, with layers of sand, silt, and clay containing fossils of sea creatures [22]. Volcanic activity and the advance and retreat of ice sheets have further shaped the landscape, creating the diverse terrain that hikers enjoy today [22].
Whether you're seeking a challenging long-distance hike or a peaceful escape into nature, the Tiger Mountain Trail provides a rewarding experience [3, 4]. Be sure to consult a map and be prepared for varied trail conditions, as some sections may be shared with horses and mountain bikes [3, 4].
A brief summary to Tiger Mountain Trail
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