Poo-Poo Point via High School Trail

Starting near King County, Washington, the Poo-Poo Point via High School Trail is an 11 km (approximately 6.8 miles) out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of around 500 meters (1,640 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards Issaquah High School, located at 700 2nd Ave SE, Issaquah, WA 98027. There is parking available near the high school. For those using public transport, King County Metro Transit offers bus services to Issaquah, with stops near the high school.### Trail Overview The trail begins at the Issaquah High School, where you will find clear signage directing you to the High School Trail. The initial part of the hike is relatively gentle, winding through lush forested areas. As you progress, the trail becomes steeper, offering a good workout for your legs.### Significant Landmarks and Nature At around 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you will encounter a small creek, which is a great spot to take a short break and enjoy the serene surroundings. The trail continues to ascend, and you will notice the forest transitioning from dense undergrowth to more open spaces with tall trees.### Wildlife Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. The area is also known for its vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months.### Historical Significance The name "Poo-Poo Point" is derived from the sound of the steam whistles that loggers used in the early 20th century. This area has a rich history of logging, and remnants of old logging roads can still be seen along the trail.### Reaching Poo-Poo Point At approximately 5.5 km (3.4 miles) from the trailhead, you will reach Poo-Poo Point. This vantage point offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and, on clear days, you can see Mount Rainier in the distance. The point is also a popular spot for paragliders, so you might witness some taking off or landing.### Navigation For navigation, it is recommended to use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on the correct path.### Return Journey The return journey follows the same path back to the trailhead, offering a chance to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. Make sure to pace yourself on the descent, as the steep sections can be challenging on the knees.This trail offers a mix of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and a touch of historical intrigue, making it a rewarding hike for those looking to explore the Issaquah Alps.