Day Hike - Squak Mountain: May Valley Access

We will meet at 7:30 am at the Tibbett's Valley Park & Ride (next to the Sound Transit center garage), 965 12th Ave NW, Issaquah, WA 98027.   https://goo.gl/maps/ufQEH8esYyA2

Our hike will start at Squak Mountain State Park on May Valley Road, just a short drive from the Park & Ride. The parking lot at the trailhead is not large so carpooling from the Park & Ride is encouraged. There is a vault toilet at the trailhead.

We will do a loop through the lovely lowland forests on the south side of Squak Mountain. On the way, we'll visit Debbie's viewpoint, West Peak, and the Bullitt fireplace where we will stop for a snack. Then we will continue on to Central Peak and descend to cross the impressive bridge recently built over Phil's Creek. We will follow the new trail that connects to the lower May Valley loop and end with a short walk down the access road back to the trailhead.

While this hike has 1800' of elevation gain, it is not a conditioner. We will travel at a moderate 2.0 mph pace so please make sure the pace and elevation gain are comfortable for you. Since there are many crisscrossing trails on this route, we will plan to stick together as a group. This hike will happen rain or shine. Please make sure to bring appropriate gear for the weather, which could mean rain gear and gaiters, sunscreen and sunglasses, or even microspikes if the snow level is low. The leader will send an email a few days before the trip with required gear in addition to the 10 essentials.

Note: This is a mentored hike for Beth Morrigan