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Washington State Parks

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Squak Mountain State Park
Picnic Table © stateparks.com
It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
Keep On Leash © stateparks.com
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SQUAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK
Squak Mountain State Park is a 1,545-acre, day-use park just outside of Issaquah and a short 15-minute drive from Seattle. The forested park features miles of trails in wilderness solitude for both equestrians and hikers alike. This forested park, a wilderness with glimpses of Issaquah below, has miles of winding trails alongside bubbling creeks and narrow ravines. There are several trail loop options on this 2,024-foot-high mountain. With multi-use trails and a natural area, equestrians and hikers alike have plenty to explore.

Park hours/updates:

Summer: 6:30 a.m. to dusk Winter: 8 a.m. to dusk The park is open year round for day use.
Nature of the Area
Wildlife Mammals Birds Fish & Sea Life? Bears? Chipmunks? Coyotes? Deer or Elk? Foxes? Rabbits? Raccoons? Skunks? Squirrels? Weasels? Crows or Ravens? Hawks? Jays? Owls? Woodpeckers? Wrens

Environmental Features Physical Features Plant Life ? Cedar? Douglas Fir? Hemlock? Nobel Fir? Spruce? Alder? Birch? Maple? Daisy? Foxglove? Lupines? Orchids? Paintbrush? Rhododendron? Rose? Berries? Ferns? Moss or Lichens
History of the Area
Squak Mountain State Park was created in 1972 when the Bullitt family donated 590 acres near the top of the mountain to the state. The donation included a stipulation that the land must remain in its natural state. Several other parcels of land were acquired over the years. Traces of early land users are readily found throughout the park, from remnants of old coal mining rail trails to overgrown logging roads. Massive old-growth stumps dot the forest alongside the trails. And the Bullitt fireplace, a popular park destination, is all that remains at the site of the Bullitt's summer home.

The name Squak comes from an early Anglicization of the Native American word "Asquowk," and was also given to the nearby valley, creek and town.
Passes
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the Discover Pass web page.
Park Store
Available in the area ? Auto repair? Camping? Diesel? Gasoline? Groceries? Hardware? Overnight Accommodations? Pay phone? Postal service



Picnicking
The park offers six unsheltered picnic tables at the trailhead and one at the Bullitt fireplace site. All are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a vault toilet the the trailhead and a horse-loading ramp that is accessible to people with disabilities. There is no water available at Squak Mountain.
Trails
1. Central Peak Trail: This 3-mile trail is moderately difficult, leading hikers to the highest point in Squak Mountain State Park at an elevation of over 2,000 feet.

2. West Access Trail: A relatively easy and short hike that's perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick nature walk; it offers beautiful views of surrounding forests.

3. East Side Loop: An approximately five miles long loop with moderate difficulty level featuring lush greenery and occasional wildlife sightings such as deer and birds.

4. Bullitt Fireplace Trail: Named after its unique landmark - an old stone fireplace from a former homestead on the mountain - this two mile out-and-back trail provides stunning forest scenery along with historical interest points.

5. Phils Creek & Equestrian Trails: These trails are shared by both hikers and horse riders offering different perspectives through dense woods while crossing several creeks.

6. Chybinski Loop Trial: It's about four miles round trip which takes you around some scenic spots including Chybinski creek providing opportunities to spot local flora like ferns, mosses etc.

7. May Valley Loop trial: This six-miles-long challenging route includes steep climbs but rewards climbers with panoramic vistas across May valley.

8. Squak Connector: A one:way path connecting Cougar Mountain Wildland park making it ideal choice if planning longer hikes spanning multiple parks.

9. Deceiver Ridge: A strenuous uphill climb rewarding adventurers breathtaking view overlooking Issaquah cityscape below.

10. West peak:Mostly used by experienced trekkers due to its rugged terrain taking them up-to second tallest summit within park boundaries.
Nature Programs
The park features a self-guided interpretive walk along the .3-mile Pretzel Tree Trail adjacent to the main trailhead. The trail illustrates the adventures of Field Mouse as he meets local forest creatures and discovers their importance in the ecosystem on his search for the Pretzel Tree.
Area Attractions
Trails Water Activities Other ? 13 mi. Hiking Trails? 6 mi. Horse Trails? Bird Watching? Interpretive Activities? Wildlife Viewing


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
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Nearby Hotels
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Directions
The park is located in Issaquah, Wash. in King County.

The park is located just south of Issaquah. From I-90, take exit 17. Head south on Front Street, which turns into Issaquah-Hobart Road. Drive 4.5 miles, then turn right on S.E. May Valley Road. Drive 1.5 miles, and turn right into the park.

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Washington
12

Washington State Parks

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