Quarry Trail and Shy Bear Trail

Starting your adventure near King County, Washington, the Quarry Trail and Shy Bear Trail loop spans approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (1,312 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a rich 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 Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, located near Newcastle, Washington. The nearest significant landmark is the Red Town Trailhead, which is easily accessible via the I-90 freeway. For those using public transport, you can take a bus to the Newcastle Transit Center and then a short taxi or rideshare to the trailhead.

Trail Overview The loop begins at the Red Town Trailhead, where you'll find ample parking and restroom facilities. From here, the trail meanders through dense forests, offering a serene escape from urban life. The initial section of the trail is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging segments ahead.

Key Landmarks and Sections - **Coal Creek Falls (1.5 km / 0.9 miles in)**: One of the first significant landmarks you'll encounter is Coal Creek Falls. This picturesque waterfall is especially stunning during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak. It's a great spot for a quick rest and some photos. - **Quarry Trail Junction (3 km / 1.9 miles in)**: As you continue, you'll reach the junction with the Quarry Trail. This section of the trail is historically significant, as it was once a bustling area for coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Remnants of old mining equipment and structures can still be seen, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past.

- Shy Bear Pass (5 km / 3.1 miles in): The trail then ascends towards Shy Bear Pass, the highest point of the loop. This section involves a steady climb, gaining approximately 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation. The effort is well worth it, as the pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and distant mountain ranges.

Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. You'll walk through lush forests dominated by Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including black-tailed deer, coyotes, and a variety of bird species such as woodpeckers and owls. During spring and summer, the trail is adorned with wildflowers like trillium and bleeding heart, adding vibrant colors to your hike.

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 ensures you stay on the right path and can explore any interesting detours with confidence.

Final Stretch As you descend from Shy Bear Pass, the trail loops back towards the Red Town Trailhead. This section is a gentle downhill walk, allowing you to cool down and reflect on the diverse landscapes and historical sites you've encountered. The entire loop takes around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast in the King County area.