Poo Poo Point

The Poo Poo Point trail is a great option for beautiful forest and great views only about 20 minutes outside of Seattle. The longer and less steep of the two routes to Poo Poo Point, this trail leaves from the Issaquah High School (the shorter and steeper Chirico Trail leaves from the paragliding landing field several miles to the south). From the trailhead the trail will be unsigned but you'll pass a swampy area and then reach the first sign just 0.3miles down the way. Turn right at the sign and then bear right again to follow the old road. This section is open to mountain bikers as well so be sure to keep and eye out and give right of way.

At 0.8 miles you'll cross a stream and then come upon a power line - the trail cuts up to the right on a rocky slope here. Head up this way and you'll soon see the official sign for the Poo Poo Point trail near a large wooden gate - head right here away from the gate to continue on the trail. From here you'll starting climbing through the forest (look out for wildflowers and berries in the summer months!) and crossing a number of small streams.

When you reach a three-way trail junction keep to the right again and reach Poo Poo Point, one of the summits of West Tiger Mountain, in just another half a mile - you'll know it by the large grassy knoll and open views of Lake Sammamish and Issaquah. If the weather is right you'll also find paragliders jumping off the mountain from the Point. Stop for a snack and enjoy the view before returning the way you came.

Getting there: Head south through downtown Issaquah and at 1.8 miles from I-90 turn left at the light onto Second Ave. SE. Parking will be on your right pretty immediately - only space for about 3 or 4 cars here and the trail is unmarked. If this area is full you can park at the Issaquah High School nearby (be sure to park in an unrestricted zone if so) and walk back to the trail.