Trail of the Week: Poo Poo Point

Poo Poo Point Trail

Hike description: At Poo Poo Point, visitors sometimes choose to become part of the scenery.

When weather permits, paragliders will launch from the perch above Issaquah. Artificial turf on the upper slope serves as a runway for these fliers. Whether watching or taking flight, this is a good place to visit on sunny days.

However, the view and low elevation (1,820 feet) make this a good destination for a late fall hike. When higher hikes are closed, you can still get in a workout on this hill.

The view at the top stretches from Tacoma to Mount Baker. Issaquah, Bellevue and Lake Sammamish are easy to spot. Squak and Cougar mountains (also good fall hiking spots) stand to the west.

There are two routes to Poo Poo Point. Hike from near Issaquah High School for a 7.5-mile round trip or take the steeper, but more direct route (3.8 miles) from the parking lot along Issaquah Hobart Road next to the Seattle Paragliding headquarters.

A hike here can be extended by linking to other trails in Tiger Mountain State Forest.

Directions: From state Route 18 northeast of Maple Valley, take the Issaquah-Hobart Road exit and drive northwest toward Issaquah. Find the trailhead for the short, steeper trail on the right before Seattle Paragliding, 11206 Issaquah Hobart Road SE. For the longer trail, continue 1.4 miles to Second Avenue and turn right. Park near Issaquah High and find the trailhead south of the school. Don’t park at the school. The school closes the gates and cars could get locked in.

Difficulty rating: 3 (5 is most difficult, 1 is easiest).

Miles round trip: 7.5.

Elevation gain: 1,900 feet.

Best time of the year: March-early December.

Map: Green Trails 204S: Tiger Mountain.

Pass: None.

Also: The name Poo Poo Point is an unofficial name, according to the state. The Washington Trails Association says the name is a reference to steam whistles that blasted in the area during the early days of logging. Yes, of course, there is a toilet located near the top of Poo Poo Point. Seattle Paragliding is located at the foot of Poo Poo Point and offers tandem trips starting at $225 when weather permits. Dogs on leashes are allowed on the trail. Mountain bikes are permitted in some areas of the state forest, but not on the Poo Poo Point Trail. There are several geocaches along the route. Visit geocaching.com for information.

Info: dnr.wa.gov/tiger.

This story was originally published November 17, 2016 at 6:41 AM.