Heart Attack Hill and LogJam Loop

Starting near King County, Washington, the Heart Attack Hill and LogJam Loop is a moderately challenging 5 km (approximately 3.1 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). The trailhead is conveniently located near the popular Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, making it accessible for both locals and visitors.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, which is well-signposted from major roads in King County. The nearest significant landmark is the Red Town Trailhead, located at 7436 Lakemont Blvd SE, Bellevue, WA 98006. There is ample parking available at this location. For those using public transport, King County Metro Transit offers bus services that stop near the park entrance. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead.

Trail Overview

The trail begins with a gentle ascent, allowing hikers to warm up before tackling the more strenuous sections. The first significant landmark is the Red Town Meadow, approximately 0.5 km (0.3 miles) from the start. This open area is a great spot to observe local flora and fauna, including deer and various bird species.

Heart Attack Hill

As you continue, you'll encounter Heart Attack Hill around the 1 km (0.6 miles) mark. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with a steep incline that gains about 50 meters (164 feet) in elevation over a short distance. The hill is named for its steepness, so take your time and pace yourself. The effort is well worth it, as the top offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and, on clear days, glimpses of the Cascade Mountains.

LogJam Loop

After conquering Heart Attack Hill, the trail levels out and transitions into the LogJam Loop. This part of the trail is characterized by its dense forest and the occasional fallen log, which adds a bit of adventure to your hike. The loop is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track.

Historical Significance

The area around Cougar Mountain has a rich history, particularly related to coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As you hike, you'll notice remnants of this era, including old mining equipment and informational plaques that provide context about the region's industrial past. These historical markers are located around the 3 km (1.9 miles) point of the trail.

Flora and Fauna

The trail is abundant with native plants such as sword ferns, salal, and various species of mosses and lichens. In spring and early summer, wildflowers like trillium and bleeding heart add splashes of color to the landscape. Wildlife sightings are common, with black-tailed deer, raccoons, and even the occasional black bear making appearances. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species like the pileated woodpecker, red-tailed hawk, and various songbirds.

Final Stretch

The last section of the trail is a gentle descent back towards the trailhead. This part of the hike is less strenuous, allowing you to cool down and enjoy the serene forest surroundings. The loop brings you back to the starting point near the Red Town Trailhead, completing your 5 km (3.1 miles) adventure.

This trail offers a mix of physical challenge, natural beauty, and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.