Old Man's Trail, By Pass Trail, Fred's Railroad, Shy Bear & Wilderness Peak Loop — Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009

Issaquah Alps > Cougar Mountain

Sun was out and temperatures were mild (low 40's) for a 'climb' of Wilderness Peak. Snow was evident around the parking area and on the beginning of the Old Man Trail but the trails were mostly damp, muddy in places with no ice to worry about. Total hike took about 2 hours to cover 4 miles and 500 to 600 feet of elevation gain. All the area looked pretty in the 1/4 to 1 inch of snow cover. A few folks were out on the trails including trail runners, dog walkers and hikers. This is not a typical hike due to the non-view situation at Wilderness Peak. Views were evident coming down the Wilderness Peak Trail (out toward Long View Peak). Alex who left a message at the peak register was disappointed by the lack of a view - he should try Longview Peak next time in the area. HAPPY TRAILS!