Hop Craze and Miner's Trail

Starting your adventure near King County, Washington, the Hop Craze and Miner's Trail offers a captivating journey through a region rich in history and natural beauty. This out-and-back trail spans approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (984 feet), making it a medium difficulty hike suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards the nearest known address, which is the intersection of SE 128th Street and 424th Avenue SE, near Enumclaw, WA. There is a small parking area available at the trailhead. For those using public transport, take a bus to Enumclaw and then a local taxi or rideshare service to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a dense forest of Douglas fir and western hemlock. The first kilometer (0.6 miles) is relatively easy, allowing you to acclimate to the surroundings. As you progress, the trail becomes steeper, gaining approximately 150 meters (492 feet) in elevation over the next 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).

### Historical Significance This trail is steeped in history, originally used by miners in the late 19th century during the region's coal mining boom. As you hike, you'll come across remnants of old mining equipment and abandoned shafts, offering a glimpse into the past. The trail's name, "Hop Craze," refers to the hop farms that once flourished in the area, supplying hops to breweries across the Pacific Northwest.

### Key Landmarks and Nature At around the 3 km (1.8 miles) mark, you'll reach a scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and distant Cascade Mountains. This is a perfect spot for a short break and some photography. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including black-tailed deer, red foxes, and a variety of bird species such as the Steller's jay and the northern flicker.

Continuing on, the trail narrows and becomes more rugged, with rocky sections that require careful navigation. Using a navigation tool like HiiKER can be particularly helpful here to ensure you stay on the correct path. The final stretch of the trail leads to an old miner's cabin, now partially reclaimed by nature. This cabin marks the turnaround point of the hike.

### Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a diverse range of flora, including sword ferns, salal, and Oregon grape. In spring and early summer, the trail is adorned with wildflowers such as trillium and lupine. The forest canopy provides ample shade, making this trail a pleasant hike even on warmer days.

### Return Journey The return journey retraces your steps back to the trailhead. While descending, take your time to enjoy the changing perspectives and perhaps spot some wildlife you may have missed on the way up. The descent is generally easier but still requires attention due to the rocky and uneven terrain.

This trail offers a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for those who venture onto it.