May Valley Loop, Squak Mountain Access Trail — Sunday, Nov. 23, 2003

Issaquah Alps > Squak Mountain

I decided to take advantage of Monday's break in the weather to take a hike on Squak Mountain and check out the condition of the trails after all the storms we've been hit with. Here's a quick summary: Squak Access Trail This well-built trail is in good condition. East Ridge Trail Well built and in good condition. Snow begins around 1500'. Some brush and debris on the trail around Thrush Gap. Phil's Creek Trail The trail is overgrown and recent storms have left a lot of debris on the trail. It's a mess and needs work. Horse accessible section will eventually need ""hardening"" with gravel and better drainage. Bullitt Trail crossover This new trail constructed by the WTA connects the South Access Road with the Bullitt Gorge trail at about the 1200' level. A nice piece of work, in good condition. Bullitt Gorge Trail to Perimeter Trail In good condition, but oversteep in sections, which could cause erosion if usage increases. Valley Connecter Trail Primitive trail needs alot of brushing and log-cutting. There's a good layer of sloppy snow near the top, at 1800'. Bullitt Fireplace Trail from 1600' to 1800'. Miserable. Snow-smashed brush is all over the trail and the tread has eroded to the point of being beyond repair. The steeper sections may have to be rerouted out of the deep trench that currently serves as the trail. Trail N1 (Bullitt Access trail) from 1600' to 740'. In good condition. Some drainage work needed to get water off the trail around 900'.