East Tiger Mountain Summit Hike

Route Description for East Tiger Mountain Summit Hike

East Tiger Mountain via the Main Tiger Mountain Road is a moderate hike of 12.4 km. With 505 m of elevation gain, it’s accessible for most strong beginners and better. This trail is popular with mountain bikers more than hikers (who more frequently head up West Tiger Mountain), so keep an eye out and share the trail.

The Main Tiger Road that you’ll take to the summit is an old gravel forest road, not a trail. This makes it very easy to stay on course and offers a wide, even walking surface. You may be less entertained along the way than you would be on a more natural trail, but the views from the two viewpoints make the trip worth it.

Begin from the parking area, heading across Deep Creek to the east. The trail soon splits and you’ll want to stay left. Continue on the path through the next junction and cross Deep Creek again.

You’ll begin to climb gradually. The hike follows a consistent moderate uphill grade the entire way to the summit. You’ll bend around a few wide turns (keep an eye out for bikes).

You’ll pass through another junction, continuing on the gravel road. Wide, relaxed turns lead you through the forest.

In the upper third or so of the hike, you’ll gain elevation a bit more aggressively, but the hike never becomes too steep. You’ll make a tight turn around 730m- avoid the trail that continues straight off the curve of the turn.

Gradually traversing across the mountain, you’ll make another sharp turn around 800 m. Go straight on here as a spur trail heads to the left. This is the final approach to the summit.

Stop to see the view from a turnout about 1.1 km from the summit, where you can take a breather at the picnic tables if you’d like. Stay right as you loop around the summit. The views from here are actually less clear than the views from the lower viewpoint, but it’s great to be on top of the mountain nonetheless.

You can either retrace your steps or continue off the southeastern side of the summit where the trail loops back on itself to meet up with the main road. Neither option is more difficult than the other.

Back on the main road, you’ll hike down to the trailhead the same way you came up. It bears repeating now that you have your back facing uphill: listen and watch for mountain bikers as you go.

Trail Highlights

Tiger Mountain State Forest

Tiger Mountain State Forest is a 13,745-acre area in Washington State near Seattle-Tacoma that offers opportunities to hike, mountain bike, horseback ride, and more. This forest is one of the DNR’s most well-known forests. With easy access from the cities of the Seattle-Tacoma metro area, it’s a popular choice for many recreationists throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drive to the top of Tiger Mountain?

No, Tiger Mountain Road is closed to car traffic.

What is the closest city to Tiger Mountain?

Issaquah is the closest city. Preston is also nearby but has fewer services.

Do I need a pass for Tiger Mountain?

Yes, you’ll need your Discover Pass for this hike.

Insider Hints for East Tiger Mountain Summit Hike

• This hike can be completed in shoulder season if the snow isn’t too deep.
• Keep dogs on shorter leashes on shared mountain biking trails.