2.9
(7)
72
hikers
00:39
2.51km
10m
Hiking
Hike the easy 1.6-mile Yellow Lake Loop near Issaquah and Sammamish, offering tranquil lake views and an urban wildlife sanctuary.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
100 m
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
320 m
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
480 m
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.51 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.42 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.30 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 9 May
22°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail is generally easy with a relatively flat profile and minimal elevation change. It features clean, wide, and well-graveled pathways, making it suitable for walking. While mostly smooth, hikers might encounter some sections requiring navigation over or under large fallen trees.
Yes, the Yellow Lake Loop is dog-friendly. However, all dogs must be kept on a leash to protect the urban wildlife sanctuary and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The Yellow Lake Loop can be enjoyed year-round. However, spring is particularly beautiful when yellow-flowering water lilies bloom around the lake's edges, giving the lake its name. The trail's well-graveled paths make it accessible even in winter.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Yellow Lake Loop trail or Klahanie Park. It is a publicly accessible urban wildlife sanctuary.
As an urban wildlife sanctuary, the loop supports a variety of birds, including ducks, gulls, and woodpeckers. The forest features both coniferous and deciduous trees, with dense evergreens and ferns covering the forest floor. In spring, look for yellow water lilies.
The trail is located within the Klahanie neighborhood near Issaquah and Sammamish, Washington. Specific parking information is not detailed, but access points are typically found within the residential areas surrounding Klahanie Park.
Yes, the main highlight is the scenic Yellow Lake itself. A small wooden boardwalk extends into the lake, offering closer views of the water and resident ducks. The western shore also provides occasional glimpses of Tiger Mountain.
Absolutely! The trail is considered family-friendly due to its easy difficulty, relatively flat terrain, and short length. It's a great option for a leisurely walk with children.
Yes, the Yellow Lake Loop connects to other nearby trail systems, offering opportunities for extended exploration. Specifically, the route passes through sections of the East Plateau Trail and the Klahanie Trail.
While the trail itself is a natural setting, it is located within the Klahanie neighborhood. There are sets of exercise bars and platforms strategically placed along the loop for those looking to add a fitness challenge. For other amenities like restrooms or cafes, you would need to venture into the surrounding residential or commercial areas.
The well-graveled and wide pathways of the Yellow Lake Loop make it suitable for walking and even biking year-round. However, always be mindful of other trail users, especially pedestrians and those with dogs.