Best Hiking Trails in Tiger Mountain State Forest
Overview
Tiger Mountain State Forest is located 35 miles east of Seattle and borders the city of Issaquah to the south of I-90. It is the center of the locally known “Issaquah Alps”, including neighboring Cougar Mountain and Squak Mountain, among several others.
The accessible State Forest covers 13,745 acres and includes the 4,430-acre West Tiger Mountain Natural Resources Conservation Area. Its close proximity to Seattle and suburbs, ample hiking and mountain bike trails through wooded mountain sides make Tiger Mountain appealing for before or after work outings.
Getting Started
All Tiger Mountain trailheads are day-use only.
High Point Way Trailhead at Exit 20 off I-90 allows hikers to choose their own adventure with a variety of trails. Some of the more popular trails are West Tiger #3 and Cable Line Trail, which both meet up and finish at the summit of West Tiger—at least until you have to turn around and go back down.
Poo Poo Point Trailhead is an active trailhead as the lot fills up fast, even on weekdays. Poo Poo Point is a grassy knob off the shoulder of West Tiger and is a common launch point for paragliders. The Chirico Trail and Poo Poo Point Trail climb steadily up the forested mountainside until reaching the top. On a clear day, hikers are rewarded with views of Mount Rainier.
The Tiger Mountain Trail connects the north and south ends of the forest. Tiger Mountain Trailhead on the southern tip is less frequented due to its distance from I-90. More trailheads are scattered off State Route WA-18.
When to Go
Tiger Mountain's lower elevation means hiking year-round, though June through September offer the best conditions.
Permits
To access recreation sites, you'll need a Discover Pass, your ticket to Washington's great outdoors.
Dog Info
Dogs are allowed on a leash.