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Trip

Day Hike - Cougar Mountain Loop

Join the Tacoma Hiking and Backpacking Committee on a fun hike in the "lowlands" now that winter is here. We will focus on the southern portion of the mountain; a typical PNW hike that includes waterfalls, viewpoints and a couple of peaks. Lots of things to enjoy!

Contacts

Lisa McPeak
Lisa McPeak
Primary Leader
Qualified Youth Leader
  • Moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 9.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,100 ft

For those living in the South Sound, I can meet you at the South Federal Way Park and ride at 8am.    All others meet at the  Red Town Trailhead to Cougar Mountain at 9am.  There is a Port-a-Potty at the trailhead to use if needed.

PARKING PASS:  none required.

This is a really fun hike in the southern portion of Cougar Mountain for a total of 9 to 10 miles. There is elevation gain on this hike but most of the time it is a gradual gain.  We  will likely shorten the hike if the weather is really bad; there are lots of ways to do so.  In addition, may need to cancel for safety reasons if there is heavy snow.

I just completed a course in PNW trees which went over the common PNW trees and how forests change over time. Enjoyed using my new found to talk about the forests on several hikes recently; even in the winter you can learn a lot about the forests around you!   Also, the logging and mining history of this mountain is highlighted in several ways on this hike.

Route/Place

Cougar Mountain Loop

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

The Ten Essentials + 11

  1. Navigation
  2. Sun protection
  3. Insulation (extra clothing)
  4. Illumination
  5. First aid supplies
  6. Fire
  7. Repair kit and tools, including knife
  8. Nutrition (extra food)
  9. Hydration (extra water)
  10. Emergency shelter
  11. Further recommendations will be in the email I send out to all participants prior to the hike.
Trip Reports