East Tiger Summit Trail, Easy Tiger Upper and Northwest Timber Trail

Starting your adventure near King County, Washington, the East Tiger Summit Trail, Easy Tiger Upper, and Northwest Timber Trail form a loop of approximately 20 km (12.4 miles) with an elevation gain of around 900 meters (2,950 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a diverse hiking experience, combining lush forests, panoramic views, and a touch of history.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards the Tiger Mountain State Forest, with the nearest significant landmark being the Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. For public transport, take a bus to the Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride, and then use a rideshare service to reach the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The loop begins with a steady ascent through dense forest, where you'll be surrounded by towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The initial climb is gradual but consistent, gaining about 300 meters (1,000 feet) over the first 5 km (3.1 miles). Keep an eye out for the diverse flora, including ferns and mosses that carpet the forest floor.

### East Tiger Summit At approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) into the hike, you'll reach the East Tiger Summit. This is the highest point of the trail, offering breathtaking views of the Cascade Range and, on clear days, even Mount Rainier. The summit is a great spot for a break and some photos. The elevation here is around 910 meters (2,985 feet).

### Easy Tiger Upper Trail Descending from the summit, you'll transition onto the Easy Tiger Upper Trail. This section is less steep but still requires careful footing, especially if the ground is wet. The trail meanders through a mix of second-growth forest and open areas, providing a variety of landscapes. This part of the trail is about 5 km (3.1 miles) long and descends approximately 300 meters (1,000 feet).

### Northwest Timber Trail The final leg of your journey is the Northwest Timber Trail, which is relatively flat and easy compared to the earlier sections. This 8 km (5 miles) stretch takes you through a serene forest with occasional glimpses of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and various bird species. The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track.

### Historical Significance Tiger Mountain has a rich history, once being a hub for logging in the early 20th century. Remnants of this era can still be seen along the trail, including old logging roads and rusted equipment. The area has since been reclaimed by nature, offering a glimpse into the region's past while showcasing its natural beauty.

### Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of plant and animal life. The forest is home to black bears, so it's wise to carry bear spray and make noise to avoid surprising any wildlife. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species like the pileated woodpecker and the northern goshawk. The diverse plant life includes salal, Oregon grape, and huckleberries, which can be a delightful snack if you know how to identify them safely.

### Final Stretch As you complete the loop, the trail gently descends back to the trailhead, offering a peaceful end to your hike. The entire loop takes about 6-8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take.

This trail offers a well-rounded hiking experience with its mix of challenging climbs, rewarding views, and rich natural and historical elements. Make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.