The Terrace Trail is now open but with a use at your own risk sign due to potential rockfall at the very beginning. Nice fall color now. 

Terrace Trail has been a favorite of many hikers of the Newcastle Trails system. So, I am posting this trip report as a status update. As many are aware, late last December, a large boulder came tumbling down the hill, bounced down the trailhead entry steps, and landed on the road. (photo 1) The trail was immediately flagged as ‘closed due to rockfall hazard.’ Soon, much to the chagrin of the city, local hikers began ignoring the closure. I knew the city was investigating repairs so I recently emailed the city.

My email: “My wife and I have frequently hiked the Terrace Trail and are aware of the rockfall damage at the trailhead and the intermittent trail closures. I noticed some city workers spraying white paint at the trailhead steps last week. Does this indicate that there will soon be repairs and installation of some sort of retaining wall at the trailhead? I ask since the upcoming wet conditions may further destabilize the rock-bearing soil. We plan to avoid the trailhead entry during the wet season until repairs have been concluded. The Terrace Trail is an important one as it is the gateway to not only the Crosstown Trail but also others that lead into the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. Can you provide a brief update on the status of repairs?”

A Parks and Trails Planner responded: “Thank you for your email and for your awareness of the situation at the Terrace Trailhead. The white paint you noticed is part of our preliminary work in preparation for repairs. We are currently working with a geotechnical engineer who has been inspecting the area to determine the best repair options. We expect to receive their report next week, which will help us decide on the most effective method for addressing the loose rock. One preliminary option we’re considering is rock scaling, a process where loose rocks are removed from the slope to prevent further rockfall and stabilize the area."

"We understand the importance of the Terrace Trail and are committed to completing the necessary repairs before the wet season begins. Our goal is to start the work early this Fall. In the meantime, we recommend avoiding the trailhead due to ongoing safety concerns. We have placed multiple danger signs along the trail, but unfortunately, some have been removed by trail users. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to improve the safety and accessibility of the trail. Please feel free to reach out to me with any comments or concerns.”

Trip Reporter’s Note: This is not the first time a large boulder has tumbled down the Terrace Trail hill during the wet season. I discovered one that had come to rest behind the Boulder Grove bench, blocking the trail, back in early February of 2020. (photos 2 and 3) The boulder was subsequently broken up and removed within a week. 

Even with rockfall and deadfall, the trail is still magical. Because of that, I have taken several spherical panoramas on the trail Here is one taken at Boulder Grove, partway up the trail, taken November 1, 2019. (still photo 4)

https://www.360cities.net/image/newcastle-trails-boulder-grove-newcastle-wa-state

For the most immersive viewing experience click on the fullscreen icon on the menu bar in the upper right of the image. Then scroll.

The Terrace trail is officially closed due to a rock fall near the trailhead.  There weren't any signs indicating this at the trailhead but there is a sign at the top of the trail.  

The forests in the Issaquah Alps are particularly attractive this year due to late summer rains.  This also translates to lots of brush encroaching on the trail.  Fortunately I had my folding saw and clippers with me so the hike turned into one man work party.

6.3 miles, 1100 ft

A perfect morning for this trail. The plants are all neon green this spring. It was just barely sprinkling and the forecast is for increasing rain for the rest of the day. Just saw a handful of hikers and runners. Far Country Falls was barely a trickle. It should be flowing well by Tuesday.

4.5 mi, 950 ft 

Meet Sky, our rescue pup. She's a 5 month old originally from Louisiana that we adopted through Doggone Seattle. We were very sad when Maddy passed away 2 months ago so Sky has brought new joy to our household!

The Terrace Trail is officially closed because of a recent rock fall at the very beginning of the trail. Apparently a fairly large Boulder tumbled down the stairs leading up to the trail. The Boulder must have been quite large because some of these solid wood steps were partially crushed. The City of Newcastle deemed it unsafe and so closed the trail. As an alternative you can take the Crosstown Trail. Some of the flowers appear to have been eaten by critters .