Poo Poo Point - Hiking Adventure With Stunning Views
Poo Poo Point is a well-known hiking destination nestled within the Issaquah Alps in Washington State. This spot offers hikers a chance to enjoy a challenging trail that leads to breathtaking views and a unique experience. The trail's quirky name comes from the steam whistles used during the logging era, and it's not related to any animal waste. Whether you're into hiking, paragliding, or simply enjoying nature, Poo Poo Point has something for everyone.
Just a short drive from Seattle, this trailhead provides adventurers with a moderate to hard hike that spans 7.2 miles round trip. Along the way, hikers can explore old railroad grades, cross creeks, and admire mossy trees. The trail's elevation gain of 2,064 feet adds to the challenge, but the reward at the top is well worth it. The panoramic views from the summit make it a perfect spot for picnics, photography, or even paragliding.
For those who are new to the area, Poo Poo Point offers a lot more than just a great hike. It's a gateway to exploring the natural beauty of the Cougar Mountains and the surrounding region. The trailhead is conveniently located just minutes outside of downtown Issaquah, making it an ideal spot for a day trip. So, whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, Poo Poo Point is definitely worth checking out.
Table of Contents
- What Makes Poo Poo Point Unique?
- How to Get to Poo Poo Point?
- What Should You Expect on the Trail?
- Is the Trail Suitable for Beginners?
- Poo Poo Point - A Brief Overview
- What Are the Benefits of Hiking Poo Poo Point?
- How to Prepare for Your Adventure?
- Why Should You Visit Poo Poo Point?
What Makes Poo Poo Point Unique?
Poo Poo Point stands out for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, its quirky name tends to spark curiosity and conversation. Despite its humorous moniker, the trail offers a serious adventure. The hike starts off relatively gentle, but as you ascend, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging. This is where the fun really begins. The trail is well maintained for the most part, but the eastern loop can be a bit overgrown, adding an element of adventure.
As you trek through the dense forest, you'll notice the trail opening up. However, the eastern loop remains somewhat unmaintained, with steep descents among thick roots and loose rocks. This section of the trail requires a bit more caution. Downloading offline maps can be quite helpful for navigating this part of the journey. Once you reach the summit, the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make all the effort worthwhile.
How to Get to Poo Poo Point?
Getting to Poo Poo Point is relatively straightforward. The trailhead is located just a short drive from downtown Issaquah, making it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors. If you're coming from Seattle, the drive takes about 30 minutes. The trailhead is situated near Issaquah High School, and there are a few different approaches you can take depending on your preference.
For a quieter experience, you might consider taking the longer route, which starts near the high school. This approach offers a more gradual ascent and allows you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Alternatively, you can take the Chirico Trail, which is a bit more direct and cuts down on the mileage. This trail starts a few miles down the road from the high school at the paraglider landing field.
What Should You Expect on the Trail?
Once you start hiking, you'll quickly notice the trail's varying terrain. The path is fairly wide, but it changes as you progress. After gaining about 700 feet in elevation, the noise from the roads fades away, and you're left with nothing but the serene sounds of the forest. This part of the hike is where you can truly immerse yourself in nature.
The trail eventually leads to the summit, where you'll be greeted by panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding area. The summit is also a popular spot for paragliders and hang gliders, who use it as a launching point. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them taking off. The views from the top can be quite chilly, depending on the time of year, so be sure to bring along a jacket.
Is the Trail Suitable for Beginners?
The trail at Poo Poo Point might be a bit challenging for beginners, but it's definitely doable with the right preparation. The hike is classified as moderate to hard, with an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet. However, the trail is fairly wide and well-marked, which can make it easier to navigate. If you're new to hiking, it might be a good idea to bring along a friend who's more experienced.
One thing to keep in mind is that the eastern loop can be overgrown and requires a bit more caution. If you're unsure about your abilities, you might want to stick to the main trail. Downloading offline maps can be a big help if you decide to explore the less maintained sections of the trail. With the right gear and a bit of determination, most people can enjoy this hike.
Poo Poo Point - A Brief Overview
Poo Poo Point is a bare ridge located on the west side of Tiger Mountain. It's part of the Cougar Mountains and is a popular destination for hikers, paragliders, and hang gliders. The area was logged in the 1970s by the Weyerhaeuser Corporation, and even the stumps were removed. The quirky name comes from the steam whistle sounds heard during the logging era, not from any animal waste.
The trailhead is located near Issaquah High School and offers a few different approaches. The traditional route starts at the high school and meanders its way up to the summit. Alternatively, you can take the Chirico Trail, which is a more direct route. Regardless of which path you choose, the views from the top are absolutely stunning and make the hike worthwhile.
What Are the Benefits of Hiking Poo Poo Point?
Hiking Poo Poo Point offers a variety of benefits. First and foremost, it's a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. The trail's varying terrain and elevation gain provide a good workout, and the views from the summit are absolutely breathtaking. The hike also offers a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature.
For those interested in paragliding or hang gliding, Poo Poo Point is a fantastic spot. The summit serves as a popular launching point, and you might even have the opportunity to try it yourself with the help of an instructor. Additionally, the area is rich in history, and learning about the logging industry's impact on the region can be quite fascinating.
How to Prepare for Your Adventure?
Preparing for your hike at Poo Poo Point involves a few key steps. First, make sure you have the right gear. A good pair of hiking shoes or boots is essential, as the trail can be steep and rocky in places. You'll also want to bring along plenty of water and some snacks to keep your energy levels up. A jacket or windbreaker is a good idea, especially if you're hiking during the cooler months.
Downloading offline maps can be really helpful, especially if you plan to explore the eastern loop. It's also a good idea to let someone know where you're going and when you plan to return. This way, if anything goes wrong, someone will know to check on you. Lastly, be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Why Should You Visit Poo Poo Point?
Visiting Poo Poo Point offers a unique combination of adventure, history, and natural beauty. The hike is challenging enough to provide a good workout, yet rewarding enough to make every step worthwhile. The views from the summit are absolutely stunning, and the opportunity to witness paragliders and hang gliders taking off is truly special.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun day trip, Poo Poo Point has something to offer everyone. The trail's quirky name might make you smile, but the experience you'll have is anything but ordinary. So, pack your gear, grab a friend, and head out to explore this amazing destination.
To sum it all up, Poo Poo Point is a fantastic hiking destination that offers breathtaking views, a bit of history, and even the chance to try paragliding. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, this trail is definitely worth checking out. With a bit of preparation and the right gear, you can enjoy a memorable adventure in the beautiful Cougar Mountains.
Day Hike - Poo Poo Point via Chirico Trail — The Mountaineers
Poo Poo Point – Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler
Poo Poo Point — Washington Trails Association
