Poo Poo Point - Chirico Trail — Monday, Apr. 18, 2016

Issaquah Alps > Tiger Mountain

First time on this hike. So great! The conditions today were perfect for an early morning hike. I noticed the popularity and elected a weekday which made a big difference. Took back roads from the south side which made for a beautiful drive on the way which was an added bonus. The hike itself was good although I would not recommend it to anyone who is averse to inclines - you get almost no break from them on this one. I'm a little under the weather and had to stop to catch my breath several times. But that was ok as it gave me the chance to listen to the birds and catch a glimpse of a chipmunk, marmot, slugs, even a millipede. I love hikes near water and this doesn't have that. The stones during the first half make for a pretty view though, and you quickly move deeper into the forest, away from road noise. As you near the top if you pay attention there is a beautiful, picturesque view of Rainier between the trees - a preview of the view at the top. Once at the landing at the top, Rainier was in full view and man was it gorgeous! I hiked on a little ways to the landing overlooking Lake Sammamish and the other mountains which was a great stop for a break. I'm partial to the landing with the view of Rainier though, which was a little more serene. The trip back down sort of kills your knees, especially with so little even ground, but it certainly goes quick. This would be a great trail to do some trail running on. I might not take my younger kids on this one for a couple more years due to how steep this is and the lack of variety on the way, at least for children, but I will definitely return by myself in the meantime!