Bootleg Trail, Dwight's Way, High Point Trail, Lingering Trail, Preston Trail & West Tiger 3 — Friday, Jun. 25, 2010

Issaquah Alps > Tiger Mountain

I hiked on Tiger twice recently, on 6-20-10 as well as yesterday. The first time we parked near exit 20 off I-90 and began with the High Point Trail to various other trails to Tiger #1, #2 and #3 and then returned by taking the Railroad Grade to Tiger Mountain Trail and Lingering Loop. It was a long, looping and confusing trip. However it was very interesting and beautiful. I usually like something more remote, but needed to stay within cell phone range for work purposes. I found Tiger to be more challenging and enjoyable than I expected and except for the trails near Tiger #3 rarely encountered other hikers. Yesterday, I had a few hours so I decided to try Tiger Mountain again from a slightly different direction. I took exit 22 off I-90 and entered from the Preston entrance near the DOT facility. This time, I am happy to say, I was confident I knew where I was at all times even though my old map and the trail signs continued to disagree. Also, some trails are not signed and some trails are not on the map. Mostly, I stayed on the trails on the map. I returned to the Hiker's Hut and was happy to be able to see some of the view, including a vague impression of the city of Seattle. On the way out, trails included the Preston and Bootleg, and on the way back I took Tiger #1 and an unsigned trail. The forest and flowers were lovely and I saw only one other hiker accompanied by two dogs. Tiger Mountain is a great option if you don't have time or inclination for a long drive. For photos from 6/25/10: http://www.flickr.com/photos/34457823@N04/sets/72157624366180034/ For photos from 6/20/10: http://www.flickr.com/photos/34457823@N04/sets/72157624197610793/