Nike Horse Trail, Cave Hole, Fred's Railroad, Shy Bear, Indian Trail, Quarry & Clay Pit Road — Monday, Aug. 15, 2022

This was the longest hike I’ve done on Cougar Mt.  In the past when I’ve seen trip reports with a big string of trails I’d think, “No way, I’d never be able to figure out a hike like that.”  But the signage is SO good I think it would be very difficult to get lost. I’m an older woman who hikes mostly solo and almost all of these trails required little exertion.  Shy Bear had some ups and downs but was so beautiful it was worth it! Quarry Trail is pretty steep and I was pumped when I finally made it to the top.  My plan had been to just hike the lower section of Quarry then head out Coal Creek Falls. Coal Creek Falls is currently closed though so there was nowhere to go but up 😂.  It was very cool to watch the tree canopy change as I got closer and closer to the top.  Mosquitoes were an issue on some sections. The trails were all in great shape - my thanks to the trail crews! I parked at the Sky Country Trailhead at about noon on a Monday afternoon; parking was plentiful and the port-a-potties were well maintained.