Distance: 6 miles, roundtrip*
Elevation: Unknown
Pass: Discover Pass
Hiked: 6.3.18
*Due to the encounter, we only did 2-3 miles of this trail.
We weren’t in the mood for a challenging hike, but we wanted to get out into nature, so we chose this hike nearby in the Issaquah Alps. It was Sunday morning, and while we saw some people in the trailhead parking lot, we eventually were alone in the forest. I had thought this one was going to be relaxing… but all of the sudden Koda stopped and would not take her gaze off something in the distance. We tried to get her to continue, but she would not move. Then she backed up between our legs and wanted to turn around. With the recent cougar attack, we didn’t want to take any chances, so we turned around and headed home. I can tell you that’s the fastest I’ve ever gotten off a trail!
I’d like to go back on a busier day when we see more people on the trail.
Driving Directions
I-90 Eastbound to Exit 15 (WA 900 / 17th Ave NW). After driving through town, road name changes to Renton-Issaquah Road SE. 4 miles from the interstate, turn left on May Valley Road. Drive 2.5 miles to large sign for Squak Mountain State Park on Left