Northwest Timber Trail and Easy Tiger Upper

Starting near King County, Washington, the Northwest Timber Trail and Easy Tiger Upper loop spans approximately 9 km (5.6 miles) with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (1,312 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of various skill levels.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the nearest known address, which is the Snoqualmie Point Park. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. For those using public transport, take a bus to the Issaquah Transit Center and then a taxi or rideshare service to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through dense forest, characterized by towering Douglas firs and western red cedars. As you progress, the path becomes steeper, offering a moderate challenge. The first significant landmark is a small creek about 2 km (1.2 miles) in, where you can take a short break and enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water.

### Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for native plants like salal, Oregon grape, and sword ferns. Wildlife is abundant; you might spot black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, and various bird species such as the Steller's jay and the pileated woodpecker.

### Historical Significance This region has a rich history tied to the logging industry. In the early 20th century, the area was heavily logged, and remnants of old logging roads can still be seen. These roads have since been repurposed into hiking and biking trails, preserving a piece of the area's industrial past.

### Key Sections - Northwest Timber Trail: This section is about 5 km (3.1 miles) long and features a mix of single-track and wider paths. The trail meanders through lush forest and offers occasional views of the surrounding mountains. - Easy Tiger Upper: This segment is shorter but steeper, covering approximately 4 km (2.5 miles). It includes several switchbacks and offers panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley.

### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.

### Final Stretch As you near the end of the loop, the trail descends gradually, leading you back through a serene forested area. The final kilometer (0.6 miles) is relatively flat, allowing you to cool down and reflect on the journey.

This trail offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and historical context, making it a must-visit for hikers in the King County area.