FATMAP by Strava

Squak Mountain Linkup

A remote-feeling hike just minutes from downtown Seattle.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
13 km
Ascent
748 m
Descent
748 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
112 m
High Point
619 m
Gradient
12˚
Squak Mountain Linkup Map

The highlands rising above the suburb of Issaquah are known locally as “the Issaquah Alps.” They provide the perfect hiking destination when you don’t have time to drive deep into the Cascades. The Issaquah Alps are home to “the popular Cougar Mountain and Tiger Mountain trail networks, which can see a lot of people,” according to Megan Michelson on Outside Online. “But Squak Mountain tends to be less trafficked,” she says.

Description

The Squak Mountain trail system provides numerous hiking opportunities, including Margaret’s Way to Debbie's View, or simply summiting Squak Mountain West Peak. But if you’re looking for something a little extra, try connecting all three of the Squak Mountain peaks into one big linkup hike!

The route mapped here does precisely that. The route departs the main Squak Mountain trailhead and begins by ascending to Squak Mountain West Peak, one of the most popular peaks with some of the best views. From there, it traverses over to Squak Mountain Central Peak with minimal elevation loss. Tagging Squak Mountain Southeast Peak requires a bit more effort, by descending into a valley, climbing to the Southeast Peak, then re-tracing your steps back down into the valley. Wrap up the route by descending back to the main trailhead via the Phil’s Creek trail to Phil’s Connector.

Throughout this 8-mile hike, you’ll enjoy incredible solitude beneath a vaulted canopy of mature trees. The trails “wind alongside bubbling creeks and narrow ravines,” says WTA.org. You can easily pass an entire day exploring this wilderness, and you might just forget that you’re only a few minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle!

And that’s exactly why Squak Mountain is so special.

Sources: https://www.outsideonline.com/2404959/6-great-hikes-do-seattle https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/squak-mountain

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Water features
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area