Main Tiger Mountain Road

Embark on the East Tiger Mountain Loop, a moderate hiking route that spans 7.5 miles (12.1 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1571 feet (479 metres). This trail guides you through diverse forest environments, including sections of old growth and mixed forests, with some parts on gravel roads. As you hike, you will experience varied terrain that can be steep in places, leading you to the highest point in the Tiger Mountain range, where you can enjoy rewarding vistas of Mt. Rainier and the valley to the southwest. Expect to complete this journey in approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes, making it a solid workout with scenic rewards.

When planning your visit, be aware that accessing the East Tiger Mountain Loop parking and trailhead often requires a Discover Pass, so it is wise to secure this in advance. The main trailhead offers convenient amenities, including a vault toilet, to ensure a comfortable start and end to your hike. Please note that the Tiger Summit trailhead parking lot is scheduled for renovation and expansion from June to November 2025; however, the trails themselves will remain open for use during this period. Consider these details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the mountain.

The East Tiger Mountain Loop is a prominent feature within the expansive Tiger Mountain State Forest, offering a chance to explore one of the region's most popular hiking destinations. The route's ascent to the highest point in the Tiger Mountain range provides not only a physical challenge but also unparalleled views that highlight the natural beauty of the area. Keep an eye out for specific viewpoints, such as one off Road 5570, which offer particularly striking panoramas. This trail stands out for its combination of accessible wilderness and impressive summit perspectives.

Hike the Middle Tiger Loop for a moderate 7.8-mile (12.6 km) journey through lush Pacific Northwest old-growth forests, complete with towering Douglas firs and moss-draped trees. You'll encounter numerous charming creek crossings, often featuring bridges, as you gain 1515 feet (462 metres) in elevation. This route typically takes around 3 hours and 53 minutes to complete, offering a diverse hiking experience with varying terrain.

Located conveniently close to Seattle, the Middle Tiger Loop offers an accessible escape into nature. This trail is multi-use, shared by hikers, mountain bikers, and occasionally logging vehicles, so be aware of others on the path. While the overall difficulty is moderate, prepare for sections with varying terrain, including some gravel road walks and clearcut areas. These clearcut sections can sometimes offer surprising views of Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains.

Explore a unique blend of natural beauty and history on this route, which showcases the varied forest environments and old-growth characteristics of the region. You'll find artifacts from historic logging operations scattered throughout the area, offering a glimpse into Washington's oldest state forest. Despite the wooded summit of Middle Tiger Mountain, other parts of the trail provide vistas stretching from the Olympic Mountains to the Cascade Mountains.

This moderate 10.0-mile (16.1 km) loop on Tiger Mountain offers a fantastic journey through lush old-growth forests, past cascading creeks, and along historic logging grades. You'll experience the exceptionally green and mossy sections of the Northwest Timber Trail, connect through the purpose-built Silent Swamp Trail, and traverse the remnants of the 1920s Preston Railroad Trail, all while gaining 1618 feet (493 metres) of elevation over approximately 4 hours and 48 minutes.

Planning your visit requires a Discover Pass for parking at the trailheads. The trails are open year-round, but be ready for potentially muddy conditions, especially on the Preston Railroad Trail, which is known for its wet sections. Arriving early, particularly on weekends, is a good strategy to secure a parking spot.

Tiger Mountain is a working forest with a rich logging history, evident in the old railroad grades you'll encounter. This multi-use area is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and even paragliders, making it a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation in the Issaquah Alps. Dogs are permitted on these trails.