Foundation, River and Katie's Loop Trail

Starting near King County, Washington, the Foundation, River, and Katie's Loop Trail offers a delightful 3 km (approximately 1.86 miles) loop with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to enjoy a moderately challenging hike with a variety of natural and historical features.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the nearest significant landmark, the Snoqualmie Falls, located at 6501 Railroad Ave SE, Snoqualmie, WA 98065. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. For those using public transport, take the King County Metro Transit to the Snoqualmie Falls Park stop, and then it's a brief walk to the trailhead.### Trail Overview The loop begins with a gentle ascent through a lush forest, where you'll be surrounded by towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars. The first section of the trail is relatively easy, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging parts ahead. As you hike, keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that inhabit the area, including woodpeckers and owls.### Significant Landmarks At approximately 1 km (0.62 miles) into the hike, you'll come across the Foundation site, an old homestead foundation that dates back to the early 1900s. This spot offers a glimpse into the region's history and is a great place to take a short break and enjoy the surroundings.Continuing on, the trail descends towards the river. This section can be a bit steep, so watch your footing, especially if the ground is wet. The river area is a serene spot where you can often see salmon swimming upstream during the spawning season. It's also a good place to spot local wildlife such as deer and raccoons.### Katie's Loop The final section of the trail, known as Katie's Loop, takes you through a more open area with beautiful wildflower meadows in the spring and summer. This part of the trail is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. The loop then circles back to the starting point, completing the 3 km journey.### Navigation and Safety 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 and ensure you stay on track.### Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of plant life, from ferns and mosses in the shaded forest areas to vibrant wildflowers in the meadows. The diverse ecosystem supports a range of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for sightings of local fauna.### Historical Significance The region around King County has a rich history, with many trails originally used by Native American tribes for hunting and gathering. The Foundation site on this trail is a remnant of early settlers who established homesteads in the area, contributing to the historical tapestry of the region.This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding hike for those looking to explore the rich landscapes and history of King County, Washington.