Wilderness Peak Loop, Shy Bear, Fred's Railroad & East Fork — Monday, Mar. 15, 2010

Issaquah Alps > Cougar Mountain

This time we did the east side of Cougar Mountain and found more interesting things. At the top of Wilderness Peak is a fabulous big wood bench with footrest, backrest, and arm rests. Pretty plush. The Clay Pit is big and still in production but there are rocks along the south edge for sitting and some views toward the north. Just a scant quarter mile west of the clay pit is an outrageous mine shaft that just goes deep deep deep. It is well grated with rebar and safe but fascinating. We dropped a few sticks down the mine shaft and they rattled down down out of hearing. Very fun. All the trails are clear and mostly dry and the signage is excellent. The flowers are already starting - trillium, mountain rose, violets, coltsfoot, and bleeding heart. There is a little mud here and there but nothing to interrupt the joys of getting out on a nice day.