2.9 mi one way, +2000/-0 ft, West Tiger 3
Trailhead 47.52951, -121.99642, 520 feet, Tradition Plateau Trailhead
Endpoint 47.51192, -121.99039, 2522 feet, West Tiger 3
The sign at about 0.2 miles shows that it is 3.0 miles more to the top of West Tiger 3 and the map shows 2.7. It's probably closer to 2.7, making the total trip 2.9. Incidentally, the old trail (still on the map on the trailhead bulletin board) was 2.7.
The trail is easy and level for the first quarter mile as it coincides with the interpretive trail around Tradition Lake. Beyond the wooden barrier designed to keep bicycles and horses from proceeding, the trail begins a steady upward climb on a moderate grade. At 1.0 miles, the trail meets the Talus Rock Trail and a quarter mile beyond, the trail takes a switchback to the right. The old trail continues straight ahead. There is a sign prominently announcing "Viewpoint 1.9" to keep hikers off the old trail.
The old trail met up with the cable road and began a very steep climb, branching off to the left and continuing a steep climb before leveling off for a spell, crossing the cable road and meeting the new trail.
Take the new trail; it is only 0.2 miles longer but does not have the extremes in grade that the old trail had and is not as muddy. Avoid the cable road altogether; it is very steep and rocklets make footing difficult. The trail was rerouted because there are tigers in the area, which give the mountain its name.
After about 0.6 miles of the new trail, there is a faint reminder of the old trail coming in from the left. After a bit more climb, the trail crosses the West Tiger Railroad Grade 0.9 miles shy of the summit. The last 0.5 miles is a steep climb. The view is fairly good, making the 2000 foot climb worth it.
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