Evergreen Trail Guide - User contributions [en]

Trail:Middle Fork Snoqualmie River

2012-08-18T19:10:20Z

Justin:

{{Infobox Trail
| moderator=Maarten
| image name = Middle Fork Snoqualmie 1.jpg
| tech rating =3
| grunt rating =4
| singletrack percentage = 100%
| fire road percentage = 00%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 14.3 one way
| alt. change in feet = 1800+
| latitude = 47.54771
| longitude = -121.53921
| zipcode = 98045

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Middle_Fork_Snoqualmie_River CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


== Trail Overview ==
'''This trail is open to bikes on odd-numbered days only, between June 1 and October 31.'''

This trail follows the Snoqualmie River, rolling along on the opposite side of the river from the MF Road (FR56). It has tricky spots, but the lower stretches are appropriate for intermediate riders. The lower trail is nice and in very good shape; the upper 2/3rds above Dingford is more technical. Top third is wildest and beautiful, middle third is roughest, lower third is most maintained and perhaps has more rolling elevation.

FR-56 and the trail connect in four places: At the main trailhead ("Middle Fork TH") (bridge); at the Dingford Creek trailhead (bridge); near Goldmyer hot springs (bridge); at the upper trailhead (near Dutch Miller). The road is gated and closed to motor vehicles past the Dingford Trailhead. Goldmyer Hot Springs is a nice natural hot springs. See [http://www.goldmyer.org/index.htm]. Reservations are advisable, particularly on the weekends.

You can do this trail in a number of ways:
# Ride out-and-back, as far as you want. (max 14mi x2)
# Ride a loop using FR56 and the trail, to the Dingford Creek trailhead and back. (DC is about 5mi(?) from the main trailhead.)
# Park at Dingford Creek trailhead, ride past gate up road to Middle Fork Trail 1003, come down trail to Dingford Creek crossing (don't miss the Dingford trail instersection to get back to car!) 17 miles. This is a great route if you're not in for a full epic.

If you go all the way to the upper TH it's well worth going the extra few hundred yards to the DMG TH, great lunch spot by the river. Some deluxe camp sites with grills too.

== When is it open? ==
Trail is open to bicycles '''June 1 through October 31, on odd-numbered dates only.'''
The three year test period (2005-2007) has been superseded by this permanent arrangement. Please continue to share the trail and minimize user conflicts by yielding to hikers and equestrians.

== How to find it ==

* I-90 Eastbound to Exit 34.
* Turn left off the exit, cross the highway, pass major truck stop.
* Road will curve left. About 0.5mi from freeway, turn right onto SE Middle Fork Rd. (Set odometer to zero.)
* Road splits after less than 1.0mi. After about a mile this turns into Forest Road #56. Soon, the pavement ends.
* After 5.0mi on MF Rd, you'll cross a major bridge. At 9.5mi you'll pass the entries to the CCC Road and CCC Trail. After about 11.5mi, look for the Forest Service trailhead parking lot on the right. Turn in and park. If you get to a major T intersection, you've gone too far.

'''You'll need a NW Forest Pass.'''

'''Beware of Car Break-ins:''' a few car break-ins have been reported at the main trailhead. Don't leave anything valuable in your car. If you find vandalism or theft, please report it to the Forest Service. [contact info].

It takes a solid hour to get to the trailhead from Seattle. Add extra time; road has lots of pot holes.

== Typical Conditions ==
Some of the trail is clay, and after substantial rain those areas are slick and susceptible to damage. The '''wood bridges are slick like ice when wet'''. It's best to ride somewhere else when it has recently rained hard, and let the trail dry out for a few days.

Be prepared for a lot of dismounting even in the best of conditions due to numerous punchy little climbs.

If you go east past the Dingford Creek TH junction, be prepared to make a number of stream crossings (some significant) by fording.

Check the [http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c5/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA1cj72BTJw8jAwgAykeaxcN4jhYG_h4eYX5hPgYwefy6w0H24dcPNgEHcDTQ9_PIz03VL8iNMMgycVQEAHcGOlk!/dl3/d3/L2dJQSEvUUt3QS9ZQnZ3LzZfME80MEkxVkFCOTBFMktTNUJIMjAwMDAwMDA!/?ss=110605&ttype=recarea&recid=18006&actid=24&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&position=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&navid=110000000000000&pnavid=null&cid=null&pname=Interstate+90+Mountains+to+Sound+Greenway+-+Middle+Fork+Trail+%231003 Forest Service Web Page].

== Current Conditions ==
Trail is in excellent condition right now. All blow downs have been bucked out by Evergreen (Thanks Len & Graham!) and the upper trail has been brushed out. It's running great! [[User:Justin|Justin]] 12:10, 18 August 2012 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
There aren't really any turns in the trail.

Places where hints may be helpful:

'''Near Goldmyer:''' If you're riding downstream, once you get to the Goldmyer bridge, stay to the right. You'll have to ford Burntboot Creek. 7-31-10 nice foot logs make crossing easy.

'''Near Dingford:''' When you're getting close to Dingford, don't miss the signed split in the trail; you can bypass the Dingford bridge & TH altogether if you stay on the high side, or go down to the bridge.

Printable map: [[File:MidForkSnoqualmie-printable.pdf‎]]

== Local Points of Interest ==
Scott's Dairy Freeze in North Bend, old fashoned burger stand.

== Misc. Information ==
Mileage (taken from GreenTrails map):
* MF TH to Dingford TH/bridge: 5.5mi
* Dingford to Goldmyer: 5.1mi (new bridge)
* Goldmyer to upper end of trail: 3.4mi
Total: 14.3mi

Elevation:
* MF Trailhead @ 1030ft
* Dingford @ 1500ft
* Goldmyer @ 1800ft
* Upper Trailhead (Dutch Miller): 2800ft
So the total trail gains about 1800ft from bottom to top.

More mileage for you:

* MF Parking lot to Dingford trailhead by ROAD: 6.1 mi. (road is gated here)
* MF Parking lot to Goldmyer trailhead by ROAD: 10.7 mi.
* MF Parking lot to the upper trailhead by ROAD: 13.3 mi.

=== Press ===

[http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/getaways/242416_midforkbike29.html The wheels are turning again on the Middle Fork Trail], by Greg Johnston in the Seattle P-I, September 29, 2005

== Advocacy Information ==

Updates below are in blog order (reverse chronological order).

'''June, 2008''' The US Forest Service has determined that the three year trial period was a success, and that the trail will be open to bicycles each year, on odd days, between June 1 and October 31. The variable opening date was a hassle, and the trail tends to be quite wet in the Spring.

'''The Agreement''' Here is a copy of the agreement BBTC signed (in 2005?) to open the Mid Fork back up to bicycles on a three year trial period. The agreement also included BBTC's support of a future Wilderness Bill in the Mid Fork Valley. The agreement was signed by Alpine Lakes Protection Society, BBTC, Middle Fork Outdoor Recreation Coalition and Washington Trails Association. [[media:Mid-Fork-agreement.pdf|View the agreement (300k pdf)]]

'''August 27, 2005''' Middle Fork Trail has been reopened to bicycles on odd numbered days during the dry season. This is the culmination of almost 10 years of work by dedicated volunteers who have attended dozens of meetings and worked with the Forest Service and other user groups during this long process.

The trail will be open to mountain bikers on odd numbered days from April 15 [this has now changed to June 1] to October 31. The trail may open later, or close earlier due to weather conditions, if Rangers feel it is necessary. Please pass the word that it is very important that mountain bikers respect the closure if we want the trail to remain open.

This is the start of a 3 year test period, after which the odd-day mountain bike opening will be evaluated. If the test period goes well, the trail may then be permanently open to bikes on odd-days during the dry season. As part of this test period, BBTC will be doing trail maintenance, educating users, and have volunteer mountain bike patrols on the trail to educate users.

'''July 2005''' We heard that the FS had issued the decision referenced below, but they have not yet done it. We hope they do it soon. As soon as the decision is issued, then the official comment and appeal process will begin.

'''April 2005:''' Decision issued on Revised Access and Travel Management Plan - Alternative E once again selected.

The Forest Service has issued notice about their decision to implement Alternative E, which is our preferred alternative. This is in response to an appeal made on the original decision to support Alternative E.

There is now a 30 day waiting period, in which time the decision can be appealed. The FS tells me that there's better than a 50% chance that the decision will once again be appealed.

If the decision is NOT appealed, the process moves forward and we can continue to work with the MidFORC coalition to open the Middle Fork Trail to mountain bikes on odd days during the dry season. Its possible that this trail could be opened by the end of summer, but its also possible that administrative roadblocks could push it back until next year.

If the decision IS appealed within the 30 day window, the FS has 60 days to work with the appelant to address their concerns. After the 60 days the FS can decide to uphold their earlier decision, or make changes to satisfy the appelant. If this is the scenario that plays out, next summer is likely is the earliest that we would once again be able to ride this beautiful trail.

Forest Service Website with [http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/mf_atm/index.shtml more info about the decision].

'''January 2005:''' We need your help!

The Middle Fork Snoqualmie Access Travel Plan Environmental Assessment has been adjusted to work with the needs of the in-holders. None of the agreed upon changes has any real effect on bicyclists or the Middle Fork Trail. We are still on track to have access on odd numbered days during the drier season between April 15 and October 15, subject to Forest Service decision based on rainfall. It should also be noted that bicycle access is on a 3 year provisionary status, as was previously negotiated. The plan can be reviewed [http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/mf_atm/index.shtml here on the USFS site].

Alternative E is still the preferred alternative for bicyclists and recreationists. We are in a 30 day comment period until February 22. It is very important the Forest Service hear from supporters of alternative E. Please write, email, call, or FAX your comments in support of Alternative E before February 22nd. Remember the Forest Service has been very fair in dealing with all the competing interests in this area. They are not our enemy - Thank them for their continued efforts to arrive at an equitable solution and indicate you support the decision to choose alternative E. Comment period is ended.

'''November, 2004:''' The process is bumping along slowly. The Forest Service is still working on details of the miners' challenge to the Access & Travel Management plan. No public hearings are schedule but there will be a comment period once it is released again.

'''December 5, 2003:''' The decision has been withdrawn to accomodate an appeal. As part of the ATM (Access and Travel Managment) process, a final appeal window of 45 days was given. Several in-holders (property owners) in the area appealed the decision. Given the agency’s appeal process it was not possible to address the inholders’ access rights within the prescribed timeframe. This was an anticipated "bump in the road" and it looks like it will delay the process by several months.

'''Sept. 30th, 2003:''' The forest service has announced the acceptance of "Alternative E", which had been under review following a period of public comments. Mountain bike access has been reinstated to the following trails for a three year trial period: 1003, 1003.1, 1003.01, 1003.2, and 1002. Access will be from roughly April 15th to November 1st, depending on trail conditions. Mountain bike use will be restricted to odd numbered calendar days only. The forest service decision can be found on-line at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/projects/mf_atm/.

Thanks to the many, many people who took the time to weigh in on this great trail and area, your voices had a huge impact on the process!

If there was ever a trail worth working for this is it.

[http://www.midforc.org/ Middle Fork Outdoor Recreation Coalition]
[http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/mf_atm/index.htm Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Watershed Access and Travel Management Environmental Analysis]

The Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie river basin is based around a deep forest access road which follows the Snoqualmie River. The Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Valley is a scenic natural recreation area within 1.5 hours of downtown Seattle. The wild natural beauty of the Middle Fork Valley is unsurpassed by other lower elevation recreational areas in Western Washington State. The Middle Fork Trail (MFT) follows the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River all the way to the end of the Forest Road, ending at the privately run Goldmeyer Hot Springs.

One of the most beautiful trails in the Puget Sound Region, the MFT presents the essence of the Western Cascade foothills. Breathtaking views take in Yosemite-like cliffs and the rushing Snoqualmie River. Old growth forest drips with ever present moisture and life. Raucous creeks pour through moss covered rocks and massive trees. The river is a constant companion, widening and narrowing through groupings of falling trees and rocky beaches. On hot days, multiple swimming holes beckon at every turn. The trail twists up and down but never climbs nor descends too steeply. The multitude of rocks, roots, and wood trail bridges make for a challenging trail though, and what at first glance is an easy walking trail soon surprises with its challenges. The trail is also long - it would take a full summer day and a lot of Power Bars to ride the entire length and back. Where else can you do that within an easy drive of Seattle?

Backcountry Bicycle Trails Club has pledged 300 hours a year of trail work and education to this trail. This isn't a new concept; we're following on the tradition set by the club in the mid 1990s when bikes were allowed on the trail. The agreement to provide the volunteer commitment is part of a three year trial to allow bikes on the trail. Giving back to the trails and treating all those that enjoy the trails with respect is part and parcel with using the trails.

== Photos ==
<gallery>
Image:Middle_Fork_Snoqualmie_1.jpg
Image:Middle_Fork_Snoqualmie_2.jpg
Image:Middle_Fork_Snoqualmie_3.jpg|The infamous cribbed-in steps on the lower section of trail
Image:Goldmeyer-bridge.jpg|The new bridge at Goldmyer Hotsprings
Image:Mf-burntboot.JPG|Crossing Burntboot Creek
Image:Mf-DMG-view.JPG|View down the valley from near Dutch Miller Gap
Image:Mf-hotspring.JPG|Trailside hotspring between Goldmyer and Dutch Miller Gap
Image:Mf-jon-creekcrossing.JPG
Image:Mf-upper-TH.JPG|The upper trailhead at Dutch Miller Gap
Image:Mf-upper-trail2.JPG|The section of trail below Dutch Miller Gap is sweet!
Image:Mf-upper-trail.JPG|Between Dutch Miller Gap and Goldmyer



</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">ywWcp6BO8MU</videoflash>

File:MidForkSnoqualmie-printable.pdf

2012-08-18T18:55:06Z

Justin: 2 page PDF file of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail for easy printing on 8.5 x 11 paper. Basemap is from the USFS website.

2 page PDF file of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail for easy printing on 8.5 x 11 paper.

Basemap is from the USFS website.

Trail:Tokul East

2012-04-26T04:44:20Z

Justin:

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Tukul_.jpg
| tech rating =3
| grunt rating =2
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 10
| alt. change in feet = 600
| latitude = 47.56762
| longitude = -121.86533
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98024

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tokul_East CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


[[Category:Freeride]]
[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Winter]]

== Access Fees and Closures ==
'''Alert:''' '''Hancock Timber has a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012.''' A year pass is $75. More info from Hancock here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

'''Weyerhauser Corporation property closure in effect immediately for areas being logged and marked "No Trespassing"'''.

We will try to provide up-to-date information here but please be patient as there may be items we prefer not to go public with as we work to resolve them.

Remember that this entire area is private property. Respect closures and if you communicate with the property owner/manager please recognize that, unlike public lands, they are not required to consider public access.

Hancock has completed their logging of Tokul East. However they still have some heavy equipment work to do “chunking” the area.

'''Please do not start doing any trail work there yet.'''

With this heavy equipment work still to be done, any trail recovery work would be wasted effort. Plus, when they’re finished, trail recovery work will actually be easier. 

This could take 2-4 weeks, and we will let you know when to get started with trail work as soon as we know. In the meantime Hancock has requested that no one be on the property until the process is finished.
Thanks for working with us on this. We all look forward to riding at Tokul again soon.

'''Update 3/2/12'''
We were on site with Hancock this week and the logging of Tokul East has started in earnest - I'm sure you're hearing it if you're out there in the daylight. They will be closing, signing, and dropping logs across the entrance to trails as they progress - they're not closing trails until they need to so if the trail is closed stay off it for your own safety! Also be aware of logging trucks and maintenance vehicles. 

Much/most of the logging will be cable logging so it will help reduce the impact to the trails and they've selected tower locations that will further reduce impact. But, hey it's clear cutting so it will take work to rebuild once they're done which will likely be by the middle to end of April. We did visit another area they recently cut and it was actually pretty encouraging about how much will be required to get the trails reopened. I'm hopeful it will be like a really big windstorm - except it took all the marketable trees away.

The owner of the logging company (like most, Hancock contracts for the actual logging) is a mountain biker who has ridden Tokul for years so everyone is doing the best to help trail users while still recognizing that their business is getting the most revenue for the property owners.

Meanwhile we're still talking about other issues related to the access pass. We'll have a bit more to say on that front soon.

'''Update 2/15/12'''
We’re happy to be able to bring some good news! All of our hard work on the Tokul mountain biking access and use issues may be paying off. We met yesterday with the fine folks at Hancock Forest Management, and once again they’ve been very open and flexible in working with us.

We all know that things could have been structured and communicated a little more clearly in the beginning but we believe that Hancock can be a solid long-term partner for mountain biking opportunities on their 96,000 acre Snoqualmie Forest.

Here’s where things stand currently:

* Trail Maintenance: Ongoing trail maintenance is allowed on existing trails and Hancock will be providing more details. We understand that it will include the bucking out of fallen trees or dangerous snags, but do NOT cut live trees. Chainsaws are allowed dependent on the Fire Level. Hancock follows the Industrial Fire Precaution Level system which requires a fire watch and special equipment when the Fire Level rises to Level 1. Because of this there can be NO chainsaw use once a Fire Level 1 is declared which is typically from April 15 through October 15 although it can be shorter or longer based upon conditions.

* New Trail Construction: Currently there is a moratorium on new trail construction: “Permit holder may not build new trails or enhance existing trails without written permission from Hancock Forest Management”. Hancock is open in concept to new trails but a plan will have to be created and presented for their review before anything can happen.

If you are currently building a trail, or planning on it, please contact us. Unauthorized building of new trails could harm our efforts and destroy the positive relationship that both sides are working hard to create.

* Night Riding: Night riding should be formally approved soon. Hancock has worked with Fish & Wildlife to ensure that it can be done in a way that doesn’t impact their anti-poaching work on the property. We’ll let you know when you’re good to go. Until then, head over to Tolt for night riding instead.

* Sign-in Forms: Sign-in forms do not apply to walk/ride on users of the property so the requirement to drop them at Gate 10 on the North Bend doesn't affect us. Remember though that you do need to have your access permit and photo ID with you whenever you are on the property.

* Use Permits: We know there are many questions around permits including cost, and the availability of day use permits. Hancock is still evaluating these items and we suspect that they will announce some changes that, while not satisfying everyone, will potentially make it a bit more accessible for many.

Please remember that this is private land and while we may not like the new program and fee it does have the advantage of legitimizing the trails and it is definitely becoming more common. It is certainly a better option than complete closure to public access which would have hurt both recreation and Hancock. Hancock wants to allow this area to become a real asset for mountain bikers, something that can happen a lot more quickly here than on public lands.

Stay tuned for more updates coming soon…

'''Update 12/4/11'''
Hancock obviously is going to prioritize their business needs first but they also have stated that they want their property, including the Snoqualmie Forest, to be an asset to the recreational community. Some high-level takeaways from our last meeting:

* They say they are open to working with Evergreen for a comprehensive trail system; legitimizing trails already in place and adding new ones according to a plan the community develops. Please respect their request not to build any trail until that time.
* They want to allow trail maintenance to occur including official posted work parties.
* They will be logging the parcel which includes Flowtron sometime between March and June of 2012 (exact dates depend on snow level in other logging areas). They have said that although it will be clearcut logging they recognize the importance of this trail, and the work that has gone into it, and they are going to minimize damage to this trail section.
* They are reevaluating the night time closure - it didn't even occur to them that we would ride at night. This will require them to coordinate with Dept of Fish and Wildlife but they are optimistic that something can be worked out.
* They clarified that sign-in forms do not apply to walk/ride on users of the property so the requirement to drop them at Gate 10 on the North Bend doesn't effect us.
* They believe that people will and should expect Hancock to provide added value to the users if users are having to pay for access.
* They understand that charging a fee invalidates the recreational immunity provided under the recreational immunity statute. They had concerns about other elements of liability on the property already and the cost of the access permit includes the incremental cost of insurance.
* The Weyerhauser land closure impacts access to the Hancock property but Weyerhauser has agreed to provide access via the road once their logging operations are complete.
* Obviously there are other issues to work out but at least there is the potential for common ground.

== Trail Overview ==

'''Hancock Timber will be instating a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012''' More info here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

Tokul East is an area that consists of logging road climbs and loose, ripping descents on old horse trails and a few newer trails designer by local bikers. The descents tend to be fairly technical because the gravelly soils and plenty of horse use keeps things interesting.

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to the Preston Exit, turn left at the stopsign and cross the freeway and then take an immediate right on High Point Way. High Point turns into Preston-Fall City Rd, and continue on this for about 4 miles. At Fall City you will hit a stop sign and turn right here onto Hwy 202 (also called SE Fall City-Snoqualmie Rd). Contine on 202 for about 1 mile and turn left 356th Dr SE. Go up the hill for 1/3 mile and park in the trailhead lot on your left.

To find the trail system head East on the Snoqualmie Valley Trail (SVT) for about .7 miles and take the doubletrack on your left. Once you find the power lines you will find all kinds of trails to make different loops.

Alternately, many people park near Snoqualmie Falls Lodge which has singletrack that connects into the Tokul East system. Please don't park in their private parking lot.

As of March 2010, access through the main road gate off of Tokul Road seems to be prohibited by a new owner of that edge parcel. This should not affect most of the trails.

== Typical Conditions ==
These are some of the best draining trails in our area, and this is an excellent winter riding area. Some of the lower trails near the power lines can get soggy, but they're easy to avoid.

== Current Conditions ==
Logging is under way that affects many of the popular trails, including Flowtron, Last Frontier, Tetherball and the upper parts of OGDH. Here is the '''[[Media:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg|map of areas to be logged in 2012 and 2013]]'''. Trails will be closed when logging is under way.

The upper trails are MONAYY right now (but weather is changing soon folks! However, there is a lot of logging going on that is blocking the lower trails (or has destroyed them). Also, the accessor trail is now a big, wide, sandy road. Timber harvesting is active. [[User:R1de|R1de]] 19:21, 10 November 2011 (PST)

A little bit puddly on Safety First. Gun Range overtaken by brush. Everything else great! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 09:14, 7 October 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==

== Local Points of Interest ==
There are some great apres-ride taverns in Fall City. Also, the Snoqualmie Brewery in downtown Snoqualmie has good food and is kid friendly.

== Misc. Information ==
Local Trail Names:
Crazy Ivan,
Big Rock,
Little Rock Connector,
FlowTron 3000,
Last Frontier,
Safety First,
Tetherball,
Bandwagon,
Treeline,
Dodgeball,
Gun(re-ar)range,
OGDH

== Advocacy Information ==
'''Alert:''' '''Hancock Timber will be instating a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012''' More info here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

As soon as more information becomes available, it will be posted here. If you are from Hancock Timber, we would love to work with you and find a way for it to be in your interest to allow biking on the trails at Tokul. Please contact Evergreen at 206-524-2900 or email ''advocacyteam (at) evergreenmtb.org''.

Tokul East is a part of Hancock's [[Snoqualmie Forest]], a 100,000 acre tree farm. King County has purchased most of the [http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/189284_cascades03.html development rights] for this forest, but Weyerhauser kept much of Tokul East out of that deal and it is zoned residential, with future homes possible for this area.

Unofficial [[Media:Tokul-zoning.jpg | map of Tokul Creek zoning and Development Rights sale]]

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg|2012 and 2013 logging map
image:Tokul_-_Griffin_2009_topo.jpg
Image:Tokul_East_Trail_Fun_.jpg
Image:Tukul_.jpg
Image:Tokul-contact.jpg
Image:Tokul-roadsonly2.jpg
Image:Tokul-roadsonly.jpg
Image:P1050814.JPG


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">A3rG-5qxIVQ</videoflash>

Trail:Tokul East

2012-04-26T04:24:17Z

Justin: /* Access Fees and Closures */

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Tukul_.jpg
| tech rating =3
| grunt rating =2
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 10
| alt. change in feet = 600
| latitude = 47.56762
| longitude = -121.86533
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98024

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tokul_East CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


[[Category:Freeride]]
[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Winter]]

== Access Fees and Closures ==
'''Alert:''' '''Hancock Timber has a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012.''' A year pass is $75, and day passes will be available for $8. More info from Hancock here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

'''Weyerhauser Corporation property closure in effect immediately for areas being logged and marked "No Trespassing"'''.

We will try to provide up-to-date information here but please be patient as there may be items we prefer not to go public with as we work to resolve them.

Remember that this entire area is private property. Respect closures and if you communicate with the property owner/manager please recognize that, unlike public lands, they are not required to consider public access.

Hancock has completed their logging of Tokul East. However they still have some heavy equipment work to do “chunking” the area.

'''Please do not start doing any trail work there yet.'''

With this heavy equipment work still to be done, any trail recovery work would be wasted effort. Plus, when they’re finished, trail recovery work will actually be easier. 

This could take 2-4 weeks, and we will let you know when to get started with trail work as soon as we know. In the meantime Hancock has requested that no one be on the property until the process is finished.
Thanks for working with us on this. We all look forward to riding at Tokul again soon.

'''Update 3/2/12'''
We were on site with Hancock this week and the logging of Tokul East has started in earnest - I'm sure you're hearing it if you're out there in the daylight. They will be closing, signing, and dropping logs across the entrance to trails as they progress - they're not closing trails until they need to so if the trail is closed stay off it for your own safety! Also be aware of logging trucks and maintenance vehicles. 

Much/most of the logging will be cable logging so it will help reduce the impact to the trails and they've selected tower locations that will further reduce impact. But, hey it's clear cutting so it will take work to rebuild once they're done which will likely be by the middle to end of April. We did visit another area they recently cut and it was actually pretty encouraging about how much will be required to get the trails reopened. I'm hopeful it will be like a really big windstorm - except it took all the marketable trees away.

The owner of the logging company (like most, Hancock contracts for the actual logging) is a mountain biker who has ridden Tokul for years so everyone is doing the best to help trail users while still recognizing that their business is getting the most revenue for the property owners.

Meanwhile we're still talking about other issues related to the access pass. We'll have a bit more to say on that front soon.

'''Update 2/15/12'''
We’re happy to be able to bring some good news! All of our hard work on the Tokul mountain biking access and use issues may be paying off. We met yesterday with the fine folks at Hancock Forest Management, and once again they’ve been very open and flexible in working with us.

We all know that things could have been structured and communicated a little more clearly in the beginning but we believe that Hancock can be a solid long-term partner for mountain biking opportunities on their 96,000 acre Snoqualmie Forest.

Here’s where things stand currently:

* Trail Maintenance: Ongoing trail maintenance is allowed on existing trails and Hancock will be providing more details. We understand that it will include the bucking out of fallen trees or dangerous snags, but do NOT cut live trees. Chainsaws are allowed dependent on the Fire Level. Hancock follows the Industrial Fire Precaution Level system which requires a fire watch and special equipment when the Fire Level rises to Level 1. Because of this there can be NO chainsaw use once a Fire Level 1 is declared which is typically from April 15 through October 15 although it can be shorter or longer based upon conditions.

* New Trail Construction: Currently there is a moratorium on new trail construction: “Permit holder may not build new trails or enhance existing trails without written permission from Hancock Forest Management”. Hancock is open in concept to new trails but a plan will have to be created and presented for their review before anything can happen.

If you are currently building a trail, or planning on it, please contact us. Unauthorized building of new trails could harm our efforts and destroy the positive relationship that both sides are working hard to create.

* Night Riding: Night riding should be formally approved soon. Hancock has worked with Fish & Wildlife to ensure that it can be done in a way that doesn’t impact their anti-poaching work on the property. We’ll let you know when you’re good to go. Until then, head over to Tolt for night riding instead.

* Sign-in Forms: Sign-in forms do not apply to walk/ride on users of the property so the requirement to drop them at Gate 10 on the North Bend doesn't affect us. Remember though that you do need to have your access permit and photo ID with you whenever you are on the property.

* Use Permits: We know there are many questions around permits including cost, and the availability of day use permits. Hancock is still evaluating these items and we suspect that they will announce some changes that, while not satisfying everyone, will potentially make it a bit more accessible for many.

Please remember that this is private land and while we may not like the new program and fee it does have the advantage of legitimizing the trails and it is definitely becoming more common. It is certainly a better option than complete closure to public access which would have hurt both recreation and Hancock. Hancock wants to allow this area to become a real asset for mountain bikers, something that can happen a lot more quickly here than on public lands.

Stay tuned for more updates coming soon…

'''Update 12/4/11'''
Hancock obviously is going to prioritize their business needs first but they also have stated that they want their property, including the Snoqualmie Forest, to be an asset to the recreational community. Some high-level takeaways from our last meeting:

* They say they are open to working with Evergreen for a comprehensive trail system; legitimizing trails already in place and adding new ones according to a plan the community develops. Please respect their request not to build any trail until that time.
* They want to allow trail maintenance to occur including official posted work parties.
* They will be logging the parcel which includes Flowtron sometime between March and June of 2012 (exact dates depend on snow level in other logging areas). They have said that although it will be clearcut logging they recognize the importance of this trail, and the work that has gone into it, and they are going to minimize damage to this trail section.
* They are reevaluating the night time closure - it didn't even occur to them that we would ride at night. This will require them to coordinate with Dept of Fish and Wildlife but they are optimistic that something can be worked out.
* They clarified that sign-in forms do not apply to walk/ride on users of the property so the requirement to drop them at Gate 10 on the North Bend doesn't effect us.
* They believe that people will and should expect Hancock to provide added value to the users if users are having to pay for access.
* They understand that charging a fee invalidates the recreational immunity provided under the recreational immunity statute. They had concerns about other elements of liability on the property already and the cost of the access permit includes the incremental cost of insurance.
* The Weyerhauser land closure impacts access to the Hancock property but Weyerhauser has agreed to provide access via the road once their logging operations are complete.
* Obviously there are other issues to work out but at least there is the potential for common ground.

== Trail Overview ==

'''Hancock Timber will be instating a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012''' More info here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

Tokul East is an area that consists of logging road climbs and loose, ripping descents on old horse trails and a few newer trails designer by local bikers. The descents tend to be fairly technical because the gravelly soils and plenty of horse use keeps things interesting.

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to the Preston Exit, turn left at the stopsign and cross the freeway and then take an immediate right on High Point Way. High Point turns into Preston-Fall City Rd, and continue on this for about 4 miles. At Fall City you will hit a stop sign and turn right here onto Hwy 202 (also called SE Fall City-Snoqualmie Rd). Contine on 202 for about 1 mile and turn left 356th Dr SE. Go up the hill for 1/3 mile and park in the trailhead lot on your left.

To find the trail system head East on the Snoqualmie Valley Trail (SVT) for about .7 miles and take the doubletrack on your left. Once you find the power lines you will find all kinds of trails to make different loops.

Alternately, many people park near Snoqualmie Falls Lodge which has singletrack that connects into the Tokul East system. Please don't park in their private parking lot.

As of March 2010, access through the main road gate off of Tokul Road seems to be prohibited by a new owner of that edge parcel. This should not affect most of the trails.

== Typical Conditions ==
These are some of the best draining trails in our area, and this is an excellent winter riding area. Some of the lower trails near the power lines can get soggy, but they're easy to avoid.

== Current Conditions ==
Logging is under way that affects many of the popular trails, including Flowtron, Last Frontier, Tetherball and the upper parts of OGDH. Here is the '''[[Media:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg|map of areas to be logged in 2012 and 2013]]'''. Trails will be closed when logging is under way.

The upper trails are MONAYY right now (but weather is changing soon folks! However, there is a lot of logging going on that is blocking the lower trails (or has destroyed them). Also, the accessor trail is now a big, wide, sandy road. Timber harvesting is active. [[User:R1de|R1de]] 19:21, 10 November 2011 (PST)

A little bit puddly on Safety First. Gun Range overtaken by brush. Everything else great! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 09:14, 7 October 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==

== Local Points of Interest ==
There are some great apres-ride taverns in Fall City. Also, the Snoqualmie Brewery in downtown Snoqualmie has good food and is kid friendly.

== Misc. Information ==
Local Trail Names:
Crazy Ivan,
Big Rock,
Little Rock Connector,
FlowTron 3000,
Last Frontier,
Safety First,
Tetherball,
Bandwagon,
Treeline,
Dodgeball,
Gun(re-ar)range,
OGDH

== Advocacy Information ==
'''Alert:''' '''Hancock Timber will be instating a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012''' More info here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

As soon as more information becomes available, it will be posted here. If you are from Hancock Timber, we would love to work with you and find a way for it to be in your interest to allow biking on the trails at Tokul. Please contact Evergreen at 206-524-2900 or email ''advocacyteam (at) evergreenmtb.org''.

Tokul East is a part of Hancock's [[Snoqualmie Forest]], a 100,000 acre tree farm. King County has purchased most of the [http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/189284_cascades03.html development rights] for this forest, but Weyerhauser kept much of Tokul East out of that deal and it is zoned residential, with future homes possible for this area.

Unofficial [[Media:Tokul-zoning.jpg | map of Tokul Creek zoning and Development Rights sale]]

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg|2012 and 2013 logging map
image:Tokul_-_Griffin_2009_topo.jpg
Image:Tokul_East_Trail_Fun_.jpg
Image:Tukul_.jpg
Image:Tokul-contact.jpg
Image:Tokul-roadsonly2.jpg
Image:Tokul-roadsonly.jpg
Image:P1050814.JPG


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">A3rG-5qxIVQ</videoflash>

Trail:Tokul East

2012-04-26T04:21:12Z

Justin: /* Access Fees and Closures */

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Tukul_.jpg
| tech rating =3
| grunt rating =2
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 10
| alt. change in feet = 600
| latitude = 47.56762
| longitude = -121.86533
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98024

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tokul_East CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


[[Category:Freeride]]
[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Winter]]

== Access Fees and Closures ==
'''Alert:''' '''Hancock Timber has a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012. A year pass is $75, and day passes will be available for $8. More info from Hancock here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

'''Weyerhauser Corporation property closure in effect immmediately for areas being logged and marked "No Trespassing"'''.



We will try to provide up-to-date information here but please be patient as there may be items we prefer not to go public with as we work to resolve them.

Remember that this entire area is private property. Respect closures and if you communicate with the property owner/manager please recognize that, unlike public lands, they are not required to consider public access.

Hancock has completed their logging of Tokul East. However they still have some heavy equipment work to do “chunking” the area.

'''Please do not start doing any trail work there yet.'''

With this heavy equipment work still to be done, any trail recovery work would be wasted effort. Plus, when they’re finished, trail recovery work will actually be easier. 

This could take 2-4 weeks, and we will let you know when to get started with trail work as soon as we know. In the meantime Hancock has requested that no one be on the property until the process is finished.
Thanks for working with us on this. We all look forward to riding at Tokul again soon.

'''Update 3/2/12'''
We were on site with Hancock this week and the logging of Tokul East has started in earnest - I'm sure you're hearing it if you're out there in the daylight. They will be closing, signing, and dropping logs across the entrance to trails as they progress - they're not closing trails until they need to so if the trail is closed stay off it for your own safety! Also be aware of logging trucks and maintenance vehicles. 

Much/most of the logging will be cable logging so it will help reduce the impact to the trails and they've selected tower locations that will further reduce impact. But, hey it's clear cutting so it will take work to rebuild once they're done which will likely be by the middle to end of April. We did visit another area they recently cut and it was actually pretty encouraging about how much will be required to get the trails reopened. I'm hopeful it will be like a really big windstorm - except it took all the marketable trees away.

The owner of the logging company (like most, Hancock contracts for the actual logging) is a mountain biker who has ridden Tokul for years so everyone is doing the best to help trail users while still recognizing that their business is getting the most revenue for the property owners.

Meanwhile we're still talking about other issues related to the access pass. We'll have a bit more to say on that front soon.

'''Update 2/15/12'''
We’re happy to be able to bring some good news! All of our hard work on the Tokul mountain biking access and use issues may be paying off. We met yesterday with the fine folks at Hancock Forest Management, and once again they’ve been very open and flexible in working with us.

We all know that things could have been structured and communicated a little more clearly in the beginning but we believe that Hancock can be a solid long-term partner for mountain biking opportunities on their 96,000 acre Snoqualmie Forest.

Here’s where things stand currently:

* Trail Maintenance: Ongoing trail maintenance is allowed on existing trails and Hancock will be providing more details. We understand that it will include the bucking out of fallen trees or dangerous snags, but do NOT cut live trees. Chainsaws are allowed dependent on the Fire Level. Hancock follows the Industrial Fire Precaution Level system which requires a fire watch and special equipment when the Fire Level rises to Level 1. Because of this there can be NO chainsaw use once a Fire Level 1 is declared which is typically from April 15 through October 15 although it can be shorter or longer based upon conditions.

* New Trail Construction: Currently there is a moratorium on new trail construction: “Permit holder may not build new trails or enhance existing trails without written permission from Hancock Forest Management”. Hancock is open in concept to new trails but a plan will have to be created and presented for their review before anything can happen.

If you are currently building a trail, or planning on it, please contact us. Unauthorized building of new trails could harm our efforts and destroy the positive relationship that both sides are working hard to create.

* Night Riding: Night riding should be formally approved soon. Hancock has worked with Fish & Wildlife to ensure that it can be done in a way that doesn’t impact their anti-poaching work on the property. We’ll let you know when you’re good to go. Until then, head over to Tolt for night riding instead.

* Sign-in Forms: Sign-in forms do not apply to walk/ride on users of the property so the requirement to drop them at Gate 10 on the North Bend doesn't affect us. Remember though that you do need to have your access permit and photo ID with you whenever you are on the property.

* Use Permits: We know there are many questions around permits including cost, and the availability of day use permits. Hancock is still evaluating these items and we suspect that they will announce some changes that, while not satisfying everyone, will potentially make it a bit more accessible for many.

Please remember that this is private land and while we may not like the new program and fee it does have the advantage of legitimizing the trails and it is definitely becoming more common. It is certainly a better option than complete closure to public access which would have hurt both recreation and Hancock. Hancock wants to allow this area to become a real asset for mountain bikers, something that can happen a lot more quickly here than on public lands.

Stay tuned for more updates coming soon…

'''Update 12/4/11'''
Hancock obviously is going to prioritize their business needs first but they also have stated that they want their property, including the Snoqualmie Forest, to be an asset to the recreational community. Some high-level takeaways from our last meeting:

* They say they are open to working with Evergreen for a comprehensive trail system; legitimizing trails already in place and adding new ones according to a plan the community develops. Please respect their request not to build any trail until that time.
* They want to allow trail maintenance to occur including official posted work parties.
* They will be logging the parcel which includes Flowtron sometime between March and June of 2012 (exact dates depend on snow level in other logging areas). They have said that although it will be clearcut logging they recognize the importance of this trail, and the work that has gone into it, and they are going to minimize damage to this trail section.
* They are reevaluating the night time closure - it didn't even occur to them that we would ride at night. This will require them to coordinate with Dept of Fish and Wildlife but they are optimistic that something can be worked out.
* They clarified that sign-in forms do not apply to walk/ride on users of the property so the requirement to drop them at Gate 10 on the North Bend doesn't effect us.
* They believe that people will and should expect Hancock to provide added value to the users if users are having to pay for access.
* They understand that charging a fee invalidates the recreational immunity provided under the recreational immunity statute. They had concerns about other elements of liability on the property already and the cost of the access permit includes the incremental cost of insurance.
* The Weyerhauser land closure impacts access to the Hancock property but Weyerhauser has agreed to provide access via the road once their logging operations are complete.
* Obviously there are other issues to work out but at least there is the potential for common ground.

== Trail Overview ==

'''Hancock Timber will be instating a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012''' More info here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

Tokul East is an area that consists of logging road climbs and loose, ripping descents on old horse trails and a few newer trails designer by local bikers. The descents tend to be fairly technical because the gravelly soils and plenty of horse use keeps things interesting.

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to the Preston Exit, turn left at the stopsign and cross the freeway and then take an immediate right on High Point Way. High Point turns into Preston-Fall City Rd, and continue on this for about 4 miles. At Fall City you will hit a stop sign and turn right here onto Hwy 202 (also called SE Fall City-Snoqualmie Rd). Contine on 202 for about 1 mile and turn left 356th Dr SE. Go up the hill for 1/3 mile and park in the trailhead lot on your left.

To find the trail system head East on the Snoqualmie Valley Trail (SVT) for about .7 miles and take the doubletrack on your left. Once you find the power lines you will find all kinds of trails to make different loops.

Alternately, many people park near Snoqualmie Falls Lodge which has singletrack that connects into the Tokul East system. Please don't park in their private parking lot.

As of March 2010, access through the main road gate off of Tokul Road seems to be prohibited by a new owner of that edge parcel. This should not affect most of the trails.

== Typical Conditions ==
These are some of the best draining trails in our area, and this is an excellent winter riding area. Some of the lower trails near the power lines can get soggy, but they're easy to avoid.

== Current Conditions ==
Logging is under way that affects many of the popular trails, including Flowtron, Last Frontier, Tetherball and the upper parts of OGDH. Here is the '''[[Media:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg|map of areas to be logged in 2012 and 2013]]'''. Trails will be closed when logging is under way.

The upper trails are MONAYY right now (but weather is changing soon folks! However, there is a lot of logging going on that is blocking the lower trails (or has destroyed them). Also, the accessor trail is now a big, wide, sandy road. Timber harvesting is active. [[User:R1de|R1de]] 19:21, 10 November 2011 (PST)

A little bit puddly on Safety First. Gun Range overtaken by brush. Everything else great! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 09:14, 7 October 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==

== Local Points of Interest ==
There are some great apres-ride taverns in Fall City. Also, the Snoqualmie Brewery in downtown Snoqualmie has good food and is kid friendly.

== Misc. Information ==
Local Trail Names:
Crazy Ivan,
Big Rock,
Little Rock Connector,
FlowTron 3000,
Last Frontier,
Safety First,
Tetherball,
Bandwagon,
Treeline,
Dodgeball,
Gun(re-ar)range,
OGDH

== Advocacy Information ==
'''Alert:''' '''Hancock Timber will be instating a permit for use of these trails starting January 2012''' More info here: http://www.hancockrecreationnw.com/

As soon as more information becomes available, it will be posted here. If you are from Hancock Timber, we would love to work with you and find a way for it to be in your interest to allow biking on the trails at Tokul. Please contact Evergreen at 206-524-2900 or email ''advocacyteam (at) evergreenmtb.org''.

Tokul East is a part of Hancock's [[Snoqualmie Forest]], a 100,000 acre tree farm. King County has purchased most of the [http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/189284_cascades03.html development rights] for this forest, but Weyerhauser kept much of Tokul East out of that deal and it is zoned residential, with future homes possible for this area.

Unofficial [[Media:Tokul-zoning.jpg | map of Tokul Creek zoning and Development Rights sale]]

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg|2012 and 2013 logging map
image:Tokul_-_Griffin_2009_topo.jpg
Image:Tokul_East_Trail_Fun_.jpg
Image:Tukul_.jpg
Image:Tokul-contact.jpg
Image:Tokul-roadsonly2.jpg
Image:Tokul-roadsonly.jpg
Image:P1050814.JPG


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">A3rG-5qxIVQ</videoflash>

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2012-03-12T17:45:54Z

Justin: /* Advocacy Information */

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2012-03-12T17:44:20Z

Justin: /* Current Conditions */

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2012-03-12T17:41:31Z

Justin: /* New Trails */

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2012-03-12T17:35:02Z

Justin:

File:ETigerSummitMapPlan.jpeg

2012-03-12T17:13:54Z

Justin: Map showing the new East Tiger Summit trail plan.

Map showing the new East Tiger Summit trail plan.

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2012-03-12T17:09:00Z

Justin: /* New Trails */

{{Infobox_Trailinfo2 | image name = Tiger-kids.jpg
| grunt rating =3
| tech rating=3
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 12
| alt. change in feet = 1400
| longitude = -121.931183
| latitude = 47.466687
| moderator = R1de
| zipcode = 98027

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tiger_Mountain CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


{{ombox|type=content|text=Effective July 1st, 2011: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot of Tiger Mountain
See '''[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ here]''' for information on obtaining a Discover Pass.}}

Closing date has been tentatively extended to October 24th, more info on the Evergreen home page www.evergreenmtb.org

[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

WTA WILL BE WORKING ON IVERSON ON SUNDAYS. Sign up at wta.org.

== Trail Overview ==
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and DNR are building '''new trail on Tiger for mountain bikes'''. The new trail will start at the radio towers above the current entrance to Preston RR Trail at East Tiger Summit, and will connect to the the start of the Preston. The new trail will add 500 feet of vertical and a mile of new singletrack.

<center>[http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']. We need your help to build these trails. Everyone is welcome!</center>

Tiger Mountain is one of Seattle's most popular mountain biking destinations. Its close proximity to Seattle, good parking facilities, and a variety of trail difficulties draw the masses. Summer weekends see a steady stream of bikes of all types. The Preston Railroad Trail, Iverson (Fat Hand) Trail, and Northwest Timber Trail are all open to bicycles. '''The trails are typically closed seasonally from October 15 to April 15 (check exact dates below)''', but there are many miles of roads open all year long.

Trails vary in difficulty. Iverson is considered the most challenging, followed by Preston Railroad Grade and then NW Timber. Both Iverson and NW Timber have rolling grades although NW Timber has fewer roots and rocks, and easier climbs. Iverson is usually ridden from the top down because the lower section can be quite challenging to climb. NW Timber is often ridden both directions. Preston is either a climb, descent, or both and sports several challenges with rocks and roots along the way.

Contact Evergreen's Trail Crew at [mailto:trailwork@evergreenmtb.org trailwork@evergreenmtb.org] for information about work party schedules and volunteering at Tiger Mountain. You can help by volunteering, donating funds for equipment or sponsoring the food at a work party. [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to Highway 18. Continue South on Highway 18 for 4.4 miles, until you reach East Tiger Summit on your right.

There are two main parking areas, both accessed from the highway 18 summit. The upper area is gated and is locked at 8:00 PM per the sign on the gate. This area also includes pit toilets. The road to the upper area travels travels west just above the lower parking lot.

'''Effective July 1st, 2001: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot.''' [http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ See here for details on obtaining a Discover Pass]

== Typical Conditions ==
Tiger mountain can be very wet following rain, especially the Preston Railroad Trail. The Preston can ooze water for up to a week after a heavy rain, so please take this into consideration when planning your ride. Iverson and NW Timber Trails are drier, but it can still rain quite hard here.

The trails are closed seasonally from October 15 through April 15. Exact dates may vary, so check with Evergreen to see if the dates have been extended due to dry weather.

== Current Conditions ==


Awesome conditions! Preston is rolling wicked fast. Logging has wiped out the top bit of Iverson. Don't eat any of the berries along the roads; DNR has sprayed herbicide all over them. [[User:R1de|R1de]] 18:16, 23 September 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
[[Image:EastTigerMountain.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Trail map]]

All three trails are two-way and multi-use.

[[Media:EastTigerMountain.jpg|Click here to view the '''Tiger Mountain MTB trail map'''.]]

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Tiger_Mountain.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Tiger Mountain from Switchbacks.com.

'''The Standard Road > Preston > NW Timber Trail loop'''
*Climb up the main Tiger Mountain Road. From the lower parking lot, this the gated road to your right as you head up the hill.
*After approx 2.5 miles you'll reach an intersection, stay to the left.
*About 1/3 mile further you'll see the entrance to the Preston RR Trail on your right. If you go down a big hill you've gone too far.
*Take the Preston RR Trail, it's about 4 miles long and has no intersections.
*When you come out on the road, '''take a left''' and go about 100 ft.
*'''Take a right''' turn at the first intersection.
*Follow this road for approx 2 miles. You'll go down a big dip, and then climb up a hill.
*At the Top of this hill you'll see some gravel piles and a road heading off to your right. The entrance to the NW Timber Trail is just past the road on your right.
*Take the NW Timber trail for approx 2.5 miles. There are no intersections.
*At the road, take a left and coast back down to the lower parking lot, about 1/3 of a mile '''-or-''' take the connector trail back to the upper parking lot.

'''The Iverson Loop (AKA Fat Hand Trail)'''
*At the lower parking lot, take the left-hand road (West Side Road) towards the upper lot.
*Continue past the upper lot, going around the gate.
*After about 1.5 miles, you will see the entrance to the Iverson Railroad Trail to your right.
*The trail starts with a short climb and has several short ups-and-downs before heading back down.
*At the bottom, the train intersects the connector trail just before the bridge.
*Turn right and you will quickly hit the upper parking lot.

'''West Tiger'''
*Only Puget Power Trail and High School Trail are open to mountain bikes.
*Bus Trail and Bonneville Trail are both not signed for limited use (Use your best judgment).
*All other trails are off limits to bikes
*From the bottom of the High School Trail, take your first right, then left at the 'T' up to Puget Power
*The climb up from the High School to Puget Power is 18%-20%, High School is about 15%
*High school is smooth double track, Puget Power is a middle chain ring fire access road.
*It's 2.8 miles from the High School to the High Point Trailhead. Out and back using Bonneville is about 7.5 miles
*Grunt 3 | Tech 1

''All distances are estimates here and only for general reference.''

== Local Points of Interest ==

== Misc. Information ==
A Message From the [[Washington Department of Natural Resources]]'''
DNR is the land manager and is committed to building strong partnerships with trail users and volunteers. They ask you keep the folling in mind:
* Tiger Mountain is a working forest. This means that trees are harvested to pay for things such as schools, but it also means the roads are actively used. '''Please be aware of vehicle traffic on the roads.''' This includes radio tower service vehicles which are present even when there is no active logging.
* DNR is committed to building public partnerships. They have almost no budget for recreation yet are one of the biggest providers in the state of trails that re open to mountain bikes. Help support them by supporting BBTC, voicing your support for DNR and [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W volunteering for trail work].
* Please respect the forest. DNR needs help with maintenance and any adverse uses make it hard to keep trails open and up to standard. Don't ride closed trails, respect seasonal closures, and help them keep the parking areas clean.

More information on Tiger Mountain from the DNR website [http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/OpenClosureNotices/Pages/amr_south_puget_sound_region_rec.aspx#tiger here].

== Advocacy Information ==

=== New Trails ===
{{ombox|text=Evergreen is underway with a major improvement of the Tiger Mountain bike trail. This is a three-part process that started with heavy upgrades to the Preston RR Trail, followed by construction the new East Tiger Summit Trail, and finally the rebuild of the Silent Swamp Trail, which will connect the Preston RR Trail to the Northwest Timber Trail via singletrack. First ground breaking was at a work party on November 7th 2010. See the [http://bikeintelligencer.com/2010/10/mountain-bikers-get-huge-win-at-tiger-mountain/ Bike Intelligencer article on new trails].

Last work parties of the season are scheduled [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php on the Evergreen calendar].
}}

The new East Tiger Summit Trail is under way, and about 50% complete. The first section (the re-routes shown on this map) will be rideable this summer! Here is a map of the new trail project.

=== Working Forest ===
These trails are on Washington [http://www.dnr.wa.gov Deparment of Natural Resources] (DNR) land and are managed as working forests. DNR's charter is to actively harvest timber to pay for public buildings such as schools. DNR has almost no recreation budget and pays for trail maintenance and recreation staff through state and federal grants. We work with DNR to provide recreation opportunities while understanding that their core mission is generating revenue through timber harvesting.

Timber sales will cause logging on or near existing trails, such as the recent Iverson clear cut. DNR works with trail users to cause as little impact as is practical, and trys to get loggers to some minimal trail restoration when they are done. If you look at the recent Iverson harvest you'll notice that the harvest boundary went right next to the trail, but not across it, in an effort to have as little an impact as possible.

=== Trail Maintenance Techniques ===
These are the only 3 trails on all of Tiger Mountain that are open to mountain bikes, and these are some of the most popular mountain bike trails in the region. Add this to the fact that the hydrology is challenging and the trails are on old railroad grades and you've got the formula for trails that need to be upgraded to a very high level of durability.

Railroad grades are one of the worst scenarios for sustainable trails. The grades were often designed for temporary train use while logging, and didn't consider water management when built. The long, straight grades channel water down the trail, instead of sheeting the water off the side by designing in proper outslope and grade reversals. It is very difficult to modify railroad grades to be dry, sustainable trails, but we're showing that good progress can be made.

Instead of trying to create dry trails, something that would require decomissioning the rail grade and doing a re-route, we are focusing on creating an armored trail tread and directing water off the trail wherever possible. The Preston trail may not be dry all the time, but our maintenance techniques should create a trail tread that reduces erosion and excessive sedimentation.

=== Under the Microscope ===
Many user groups and public agencies look at Tiger Mountain as an example of mountain bike impacts on trails. This is unfortunate since these trails were literally the leftovers given to mountain bikers when we were kicked off all the good trail on Tiger Mountain in the early 1990's. These trails have difficult hydrological conditions and some sections are on old railroad grade. It is impressive what we've done to turn these "leftovers" into truly enjoyable and sustainable trails.

Please be aware that this area is looked at closely and ride accordingly. It is very important to use good trail etiquette and to obey all rules and the seasonal closures on Tiger Mountain. Also [http://bbtc.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''come out to work parties'''] and help us in our quest to turn these trails into real show-pieces!

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:EastTigerMountain.jpg
image:Tiger-wp.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_1.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_2.jpg


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">GBi03cSvaMw</videoflash>
<videoflash type="youtube">oMGtYkBVifM</videoflash>

Trail:Tokul West

2012-02-25T05:09:52Z

Justin:

Trail:Tokul East

2012-02-25T05:07:48Z

Justin:

Trail:Tokul East

2012-02-25T04:55:11Z

Justin:

File:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.jpg

2012-02-25T04:51:45Z

Justin: Logging map for Tokul, 2012 & 2013.

Logging map for Tokul, 2012 & 2013.

File:Tokul-Logging-2012-2013.pdf

2012-02-25T04:32:21Z

Justin: Map from Hancock Timber Resources Group showing their logging plans at Tokul for 2012 and 2013.

Map from Hancock Timber Resources Group showing their logging plans at Tokul for 2012 and 2013.

Trail:South Fork Snoqualmie

2011-10-04T04:13:06Z

Justin:

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Hansen-ridge.jpg
| tech rating =2
| grunt rating =4
| singletrack percentage = 17%
| fire road percentage = 83%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 23
| alt. change in feet = 2400
| latitude = 47.3921322886921
| longitude = -121.579513549805
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98045

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB South_Fork_Snoqualmie CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


== Trail Overview ==
South Fork Snoqualmie is an area where Evergreen is working on plans to create a 23 mile singletrack network on National Forest land. Most of it will be old logging roads converted into singletrack using heavy equipment. 4.2 miles is currently open, with another 6 in the works and scheduled to be open in 2012.

The South Fork area is south of I-90, between exits 38 and 47.

Previously, this project area was often called "Olallie"; we now use that name only for the State Parks trail project near Cedar Butte ([[Trail:Olallie | Olallie]]).

===Phase 1 - Hansen Ridge, Completed===
September 2009: The first segment of road has been converted to singletrack! '''See [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]]''' for information about this fun and VERY scenic 8 mile out-and-back ride which starts up a logging road at 3400 ft.

The Hansen Creek Drainage is the very eastern part of the South Fork Mountain Bike Area. [[media:SForkSnoq-potential-trails-smaller.jpg|See map]].

===Phase 2 - Harris Lake, Under Construction===
[[Image:SForkBigPic.jpg|thumb|left|Map of Phases 1 & 2]]Construction is under way on the newest segment, which will add 6 miles to the network and go up to scenic Harris Lake at 3700 ft elevation.

This new segment joins up with the first phase, Hansen Ridge, and when complete you will be able to put together a 16 mile out-and-back ride or a 17 mile lollipop loop.

Funding for this includes a $75,000 grant written by Evergreen. Additional funding was secured by our partners, the Forest Service and Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust.

===Years of Behind the Scenes Work===
A huge thanks needs to go out to the Evergreen volunteers who worked tirelessly on this project for almost fifteen years. If it wasn't for the work of, among others, Art Tuftee, Brian Jones, Preston Peterson, and more recently Doug Walsh and Justin Vander Pol, this project never would have happened. We still need to work towards getting approval (a new ATM plan) to build new singletrack to compliment the 23 mile road-to-trail system, but we've taken a huge step in the right direction thanks to the years of work of these key volunteers.

===Roads to Trails===
[[Image:Decom-log-road.jpg|thumb|left|trail converted from road]]Evergreen has been working closely with the Forest Service and Mountains to Sound, who is the contractor on this project, to ensure that the conversion results in the best quality trail possible.

These roads won't simply be abandonded, but large excavators will come in and pull the old tailings up to re-create the natural slope of the mountain (or as close to it as possible). Then trails will be placed in the area that has been filled in.

Evergreen has been providing design guidance to the Forest Service and Mountains to Sound to ensure that the new trail is the best possible. The trail will meanded back and forth along the former road prism, and obstacles such as old logs and stumps will be placed alongside the trail to provide visual obstacles.

== How to find it ==
This area is defined as the Forest Service owned land bordered by
:- I-90 to the north
:- Cedar River Watershed to the south
:- Olallie State Park to the west
:- Hansen Creek or the Bandera air strip to the east

You can reach this area from many points along the Iron Horse Trail.

The first phase of this project is on [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]]. Click link for more info.

== Typical Conditions ==
Here you describe how the trails hold up with rain, late in the summer, etc.

== Current Conditions ==

This is where folks will report how the trails were on a recent day.

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
See [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]]

== Local Points of Interest ==
Here you might list nearby places to get a bite to eat, nearby bike shops, etc.

== Misc. Information ==
Here you mention anything that doesn't fit in the other categories.

== Advocacy Information ==

===Project History===
In the early 1990s a policy change within Washington State Parks meant that mountain bikes lost access to many trails that we were previously allowed to ride. In response, State Parks applied for a grant to study potential new mountain biking area. Several user groups, including the Washington Trails Association, Sierra Club, Middle Fork Outdoor Recreation Coalition, Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and others reached an informal consensus regarding the general suitability of the South Fork Snoqualmie area (referred to as the Olallie Study Area) for future mountain bike trails.

The Olallie Area Mountain Bike Trails Study was completed and published in 2002. It identified the area as suitable for mountain bike trails, and included Forest Service land and Olallie State Park.

As a result of the study, there is now formal approval for new trail in the adjacent Olallie State Park, and this road-to-trail conversion in the National Forest. In the future, as funding becomes available, the two trail systems will connect at Mt. Washington and provide over twenty-five miles of singletrack made up of new singletrack and road to trail conversion.

In 2002 BBTC proposed a 30 mile trail network in this area based on a concept created by Art Tuftee in response to the Olallie Study. The proposal want meant to be the first step in realizing a larger trail network in this area.

In January, 2009, the Forest Service issed a final decision in favor of the road-to-trails conversion and road decomissioning plan. That means the project could no longer be appealed, and we moved forward with the first steps of converting old forest road to singletrack.

In the summer of 2009 Evergreen was awarded a $75,000 Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant. This funding was combined with grants for road decommissioning that Mountains to Sound Greenway brought to the project, and allowed the first section of trail to be created on [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]] in September 2009.

Summer 2011, Evergreen was awarded another $75,000 RTP grant and work is under way on the second phase of this project.

===The Future===
Currently funding is available for the first segment of road-to-trail conversion. We are actively seeking funds to do the next segment of conversion, and will continue with this until all 20+ miles of available roads are converted to singletrack.

Beyond that, the Forest Service, and other user groups, have agreed that this is an appropriate place for new singletrack. However, a new Access and Travel Management Plan (ATM Plan) must be completed in order to build new singletrack beyond what is scoped out in the current decision (mostly road-to-trails). A new ATM will require securing up to $300,000 to carry out the studies and pay for Forest Staff time to manage the project. ATM plans can take 5-8 years to complete, due to the rigid comment, response and appeal process. This is a long-term project, but Evergreen will keep pushing forward, as the South Fork Snoqualmie area represents a huge opportunity to create a legacy trail network.

===Olallie State Park===
The South Fork Snoqualmie area is bordered by Olallie State Park, to the south. The 2002 Olallie Area Mountain Bike Trail Study included both the South Fork and Olallie State Park. Once all 20 miles of road are converted to singletrack, this system will be connected to the Olallie State Park mountain bike trail at Mt. Washington.

Currently, there is no funding to build the Mt. Washington trail in Olallie State Park. As always, we just need to keep writing grants and searching for funding to finish the trail. This will happen, but it will take several years.

More info about [[Trail:Olallie|Olallie State Park]].

===Road to Trail Conversion Analysis===
This is an analysis of the initial proposal put forward by the Forest Service and Mountain to Sound Greenway Trust in September, 2007.

[[media:S-fork-snoqualmie-road-gradients.JPG|Map showing road grades for potential trail conversions (3mb)]]

As point of reference, the road climb up to the Preston RR Trail on Tiger Mountain, starting at the lower parking lot and ending at the intersection of the crossover road, has a 9.8% grade. This is 1367 ft elevation gain over 2.65 miles (13,992 ft).

===Official Documents===
[[media:Olallie-Area-Study-ExecSum.pdf‎|Olallie Area Mountain Bike Trail Study - Executive Summary (1.9mb)]]

[[media:S-Fork-public_scoping.pdf‎|Public Scoping Document for NEPA]]. This has now been fully approved.

[[media:August_08_proposed_action_map.pdf‎|Proposed Action Map]]. Compliment to the NEPA Scoping Doc.

== Photos ==
<gallery>
Image:SForkSnoq potential trails.jpg|Full version of the proposed trail system (very large image)
Image:SForkSnoq-potential-trails-smaller.jpg|Browser friedly map of the proposed trail system.
Image:Hansen-creek-pit.jpg|The gravel pit in the lower-right corner is where the Hansen Creek trailhead will be located.
Image:Hansen-ridge.jpg|View across to Hansen Ridge. The highest road in this pic will be converted to singletrack.

Image:SFork-Machine.jpg|The machine being used to turn the roads into trails--it's a big one.
Image:SFork-Trail1.jpg|Newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail2.jpg|Newly built trail
Image:SFork-pano1-1024.jpg|The views here are spectacular. A panorama shot taken from the newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail3.jpg|Newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail4.jpg|Newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail5.jpg|Newly converted trail. The views all along here are spectacular.
Image:SFork-Pano2-lines.jpg|Looking across at part of the loop from the road climb. The lower road is complete, the upper road is now underway.
Image:SFork-Hansen-across2.jpg|Looking across to the work site.
Image:SFork-Hansen-Across1.jpg|Looking across. When the loop is done, you'll ride road up from where this pic is taken, and ride converted singletrack up a bit further, then down to the trail head.
Image:SFork-Jon.jpg|Jon inspecting the newly completed trail conversion on the upper part of the Hansen Creek loop.
Image:SFork-Jon-Will.jpg|Evergreen's Jon Kennedy and Will from Mountains to Sound checking out the view from the Hansen Creek Trail.
Image:SFork-Machine2.jpg|Jon being eaten by the machine that converted the old logging roads to singletrack.


</gallery>

File:SForkBigPic.jpg

2011-10-04T04:05:14Z

Justin: South Fork Snoqualmie Phases 1 and 2

South Fork Snoqualmie Phases 1 and 2

Trail:South Fork Snoqualmie

2011-10-04T03:56:07Z

Justin:

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Hansen-ridge.jpg
| tech rating =2
| grunt rating =4
| singletrack percentage = 17%
| fire road percentage = 83%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 23
| alt. change in feet = 2400
| latitude = 47.3921322886921
| longitude = -121.579513549805
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98045

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB South_Fork_Snoqualmie CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


== Trail Overview ==
South Fork Snoqualmie is an area where Evergreen is working on plans to create a 23 mile singletrack network on National Forest land. Most of it will be old logging roads converted into singletrack using heavy equipment. 4.2 miles is currently open, with another 6 in the works and scheduled to be open in 2012.

The South Fork area is south of I-90, between exits 38 and 47.

Previously, this project area was often called "Olallie"; we now use that name only for the State Parks trail project near Cedar Butte ([[Trail:Olallie | Olallie]]).

===Phase 1 - Hansen Ridge===
September 2009: The first segment of road has been converted to singletrack! '''See [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]]''' for information about this fun and VERY scenic 8 mile out-and-back ride which starts up a logging road at 3400 ft.

The Hansen Creek Drainage is the very eastern part of the South Fork Mountain Bike Area. [[media:SForkSnoq-potential-trails-smaller.jpg|See map]].

===Phase 2 - Harris Lake===
Construction is under way on the newest segment, which will add 6 miles to the network and go up to scenic Harris Lake at 3700 ft elevation.

Funding for this includes a $75,000 grant written by Evergreen. Additional funding was secured by our partners, the Forest Service and Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust.

===Years of Behind the Scenes Work===
A huge thanks needs to go out to the Evergreen volunteers who worked tirelessly on this project for almost fifteen years. If it wasn't for the work of, among others, Art Tuftee, Brian Jones, Preston Peterson, and more recently Doug Walsh and Justin Vander Pol, this project never would have happened. We still need to work towards getting approval (a new ATM plan) to build new singletrack to compliment the 23 mile road-to-trail system, but we've taken a huge step in the right direction thanks to the years of work of these key volunteers.

===Roads to Trails===
Evergreen has been working closely with the Forest Service and Mountains to Sound, who is the contractor on this project, to ensure that the conversion results in the best quality trail possible.

These roads won't simply be abandonded, but large excavators will come in and pull the old tailings up to re-create the natural slope of the mountain (or as close to it as possible). Then trails will be placed in the area that has been filled in. Here is a picture of a [[media:Decom-log-road.jpg|newly constructed road-to-trail conversion]]. This image is also in the thumbnails at the bottom of this page.

Evergreen has been providing design guidance to the Forest Service and Mountains to Sound to ensure that the new trail is the best possible. The trail will meanded back and forth along the former road prism, and obstacles such as old logs and stumps will be placed alongside the trail to provide visual obstacles.

== How to find it ==
This area is defined as the Forest Service owned land bordered by
:- I-90 to the north
:- Cedar River Watershed to the south
:- Olallie State Park to the west
:- Hansen Creek or the Bandera air strip to the east

You can reach this area from many points along the Iron Horse Trail.

The first phase of this project is on [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]]. Click link for more info.

== Typical Conditions ==
Here you describe how the trails hold up with rain, late in the summer, etc.

== Current Conditions ==

This is where folks will report how the trails were on a recent day.

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
See [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]]

== Local Points of Interest ==
Here you might list nearby places to get a bite to eat, nearby bike shops, etc.

== Misc. Information ==
Here you mention anything that doesn't fit in the other categories.

== Advocacy Information ==

===Project History===
In the early 1990s a policy change within Washington State Parks meant that mountain bikes lost access to many trails that we were previously allowed to ride. In response, State Parks applied for a grant to study potential new mountain biking area. Several user groups, including the Washington Trails Association, Sierra Club, Middle Fork Outdoor Recreation Coalition, Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and others reached an informal consensus regarding the general suitability of the South Fork Snoqualmie area (referred to as the Olallie Study Area) for future mountain bike trails.

The Olallie Area Mountain Bike Trails Study was completed and published in 2002. It identified the area as suitable for mountain bike trails, and included Forest Service land and Olallie State Park.

As a result of the study, there is now formal approval for new trail in the adjacent Olallie State Park, and this road-to-trail conversion in the National Forest. In the future, as funding becomes available, the two trail systems will connect at Mt. Washington and provide over twenty-five miles of singletrack made up of new singletrack and road to trail conversion.

In 2002 BBTC proposed a 30 mile trail network in this area based on a concept created by Art Tuftee in response to the Olallie Study. The proposal want meant to be the first step in realizing a larger trail network in this area.

In January, 2009, the Forest Service issed a final decision in favor of the road-to-trails conversion and road decomissioning plan. That means the project could no longer be appealed, and we moved forward with the first steps of converting old forest road to singletrack.

In the summer of 2009 Evergreen was awarded a $75,000 Recreational Trails Program grant. This funding was combined with grants for road decommissioning that Mountains to Sound Greenway brought to the project, and allowed the first section of trail to be created on [[Trail:Hansen Ridge|Hansen Ridge]] in September 2009.

===The Future===
Currently funding is available for the first segment of road-to-trail conversion. We are actively seeking funds to do the next segment of conversion, and will continue with this until all 20+ miles of available roads are converted to singletrack.

Beyond that, the Forest Service, and other user groups, have agreed that this is an appropriate place for new singletrack. However, a new Access and Travel Management Plan (ATM Plan) must be completed in order to build new singletrack beyond what is scoped out in the current decision (mostly road-to-trails). A new ATM will require securing up to $300,000 to carry out the studies and pay for Forest Staff time to manage the project. ATM plans can take 5-8 years to complete, due to the rigid comment, response and appeal process. This is a long-term project, but Evergreen will keep pushing forward, as the South Fork Snoqualmie area represents a huge opportunity to create a legacy trail network.

===Olallie State Park===
The South Fork Snoqualmie area is bordered by Olallie State Park, to the south. The 2002 Olallie Area Mountain Bike Trail Study included both the South Fork and Olallie State Park. Once all 20 miles of road are converted to singletrack, this system will be connected to the Olallie State Park mountain bike trail at Mt. Washington.

Currently, there is no funding to build the Mt. Washington trail in Olallie State Park. As always, we just need to keep writing grants and searching for funding to finish the trail. This will happen, but it will take several years.

More info about [[Trail:Olallie|Olallie State Park]].

===Road to Trail Conversion Analysis===
This is an analysis of the initial proposal put forward by the Forest Service and Mountain to Sound Greenway Trust in September, 2007.

[[media:S-fork-snoqualmie-road-gradients.JPG|Map showing road grades for potential trail conversions (3mb)]]

As point of reference, the road climb up to the Preston RR Trail on Tiger Mountain, starting at the lower parking lot and ending at the intersection of the crossover road, has a 9.8% grade. This is 1367 ft elevation gain over 2.65 miles (13,992 ft).

===Official Documents===
[[media:Olallie-Area-Study-ExecSum.pdf‎|Olallie Area Mountain Bike Trail Study - Executive Summary (1.9mb)]]

[[media:S-Fork-public_scoping.pdf‎|Public Scoping Document for NEPA]]. This has now been fully approved.

[[media:August_08_proposed_action_map.pdf‎|Proposed Action Map]]. Compliment to the NEPA Scoping Doc.

== Photos ==
<gallery>
Image:SForkSnoq potential trails.jpg|Full version of the proposed trail system (very large image)
Image:SForkSnoq-potential-trails-smaller.jpg|Browser friedly map of the proposed trail system.
Image:Hansen-creek-pit.jpg|The gravel pit in the lower-right corner is where the Hansen Creek trailhead will be located.
Image:Hansen-ridge.jpg|View across to Hansen Ridge. The highest road in this pic will be converted to singletrack.

Image:SFork-Machine.jpg|The machine being used to turn the roads into trails--it's a big one.
Image:SFork-Trail1.jpg|Newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail2.jpg|Newly built trail
Image:SFork-pano1-1024.jpg|The views here are spectacular. A panorama shot taken from the newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail3.jpg|Newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail4.jpg|Newly converted trail.
Image:SFork-Trail5.jpg|Newly converted trail. The views all along here are spectacular.
Image:SFork-Pano2-lines.jpg|Looking across at part of the loop from the road climb. The lower road is complete, the upper road is now underway.
Image:SFork-Hansen-across2.jpg|Looking across to the work site.
Image:SFork-Hansen-Across1.jpg|Looking across. When the loop is done, you'll ride road up from where this pic is taken, and ride converted singletrack up a bit further, then down to the trail head.
Image:SFork-Jon.jpg|Jon inspecting the newly completed trail conversion on the upper part of the Hansen Creek loop.
Image:SFork-Jon-Will.jpg|Evergreen's Jon Kennedy and Will from Mountains to Sound checking out the view from the Hansen Creek Trail.
Image:SFork-Machine2.jpg|Jon being eaten by the machine that converted the old logging roads to singletrack.


</gallery>

Trail:Tokul West

2011-09-24T16:56:10Z

Justin:

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Defaultimage.jpg
| grunt rating = 2
| tech rating = 2
| moderator = Maarten
| singletrack percentage = 50%
| fire road percentage = 50%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 15
| alt. change in feet = 900
| longitude = -121.887431
| latitude = 47.569432
| zipcode = 90275
| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tokul_West CENTER </googlemap>
}}


[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

== Trail Description ==
Notice (9/24/11): '''With the recent rains, the fire closure is lifted and the forest is back open.'''

Tokul Creek is Hancock Timber commercial working forest with miles of trail. (Please observe their rules on passive recreational use and keep an eye on the Evergreen site for summer closures during droughts.) Unfortunately many of the trails don't connect together, so you have to know your way around the area to know how to ride the forest roads to find the next trail. Very easy to get lost; recommended to go there on a club ride with someone who knows the place.

See also the background page about the [[Snoqualmie Forest]].

“Lower trails” in western-most part are flat and fairly easy. Have very muddy spots after rain. Rest of the area dries out quite well; “upper trails” are more technical but still XC trails, not downhilling trails.

Options to connect to Griffin Creek area (via SVT, 3+ mi) and Tokul East (via SVT or internal roads) as well; riding both Tokul West and East gives a 22-25mi loop.

== How to find it ==
* Via I-90: I-90 East to the Preston/Fall City Exit (#22). Left off the exit, over the freeway, right at the T, through Preston and Fall City. In Fall City at T with 202, turn right towards Snoqualmie.
* From Redmond via SR520/SR-202: Alternately, Hwy 520 to Hwy 202 South to Fall City.

In Fall City, cross the bridge and immediately turn left towards Carnation (Hwy 203). There's a lot of road construction going on at this intersection, and several businesses that were here have been demolished (there used to be a garden store, gun shop, and drive-through espresso on the right); on the left is an unpaved parking lot. That's the place.

Here is an [http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&cp=rxvgxt4v8d7q&style=o&lvl=1&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&scene=3708789 aerial view of the parking area].

===To access the trails:===

'''Riders report that the traditional access route via SE 39th Place is open; see page history for background.'''

From Fall City parking lot, ride 200 feet north on Hwy 203 and turn right on SE 39th Place; at the end continue past the gate for a gentle climb up a dirt road to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. '''Note that this dirt road - past the gate to just before the SVT - is a public easement on private property. Please be respectful of the property owner - don't stop, keep noise to a minimum and don't leave any litter behind.''' At the top of the dirt road, turn left (north) onto the SVT. You can take the first singletrack on your right after a few hundred yards and climb (several routes). Easier to find trails if you continue to a steep, loose gravely jeep trail. Stay to the right until you get into older trees, follow switchback to the left to a clearing, go straight across clearing into first of a series of singletrack trails. (The “lower trails”.)

'''Alternate access:'''
You can park at either the [[Trail:Griffin Creek | Griffin Creek]] trailhead or the [[Trail:Tokul East | Tokul East]] trailhead and ride the SVT rail-trail to Tokul West. Griffin has more parking, and is about a 4 mile (level) ride; parking at Tokul East can be crowded but is a bit closer (roughly 2mi?).

== Typical Conditions ==
West hillside trails dry very fast. "Lower" trails (Bra, Stickerboy, Sgt Wells, etc.) turn into mud bogs. Upper trails (Outback, Steakhouse, etc.) can be a bit wet but hold up quite well.

== Current Conditions ==
Notice (9/24/11): '''With the recent rains, the fire closure is lifted and the forest is back open.'''

06/12/2011. Trails were damp but not muddy. Saw lots of interesting paw prints along the trails. Bear? Cat? Also saw large tuffs of fir along the trail in a couple of spots. Fun ride, about 10 miles, but nothing too exciting. There was a nice view from the top of the clearcut. Had the whole place to ourselves...didn't see any other riders all day except on the SVT.

June 4th 2011
I rode it today. The single tracks I have used were in great shape. Nice downhill back to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail

Scatman 3/4
I rode there on March 4 and the conditions were great despite all the and snow we had leading up to that weekend. The trails were clear of any blow downs and standing water and heavy mud was minimal. There was some snow at the higher elevations but for the most part the riding was great. Click here for a full trail report [http://www.adventuresofscatman.com/2011/03/tokul-review/] or ride recap [http://www.adventuresofscatman.com/2011/03/tokul-ride-recap/].

[[User:Mrchris42|Mrchris42]] 19:46, 14 July 2010 (PDT)
Significant logging activity on Full Bench all the way to the area above the Beaver pond. Full Bench trail is now unridable until logging activity is done and we can get back out to find and rebuild trail.

[[User:stephen.snider|stephen.snider]] 16-Sept 2010
After a day of rain, everything is slick. No puddles on the trails yet, but technical rating ++ due to slick roots and rocks. Climbed up Clear Cut (not recommended!), lots of fallen trees, very narrow. Rode OutHouse, trail is great, but as noted, very slick in spots. Rode down in the Pink Ribbon area, and those trails are great as well.

Don't ride the Kamikaze Trail. It deteriorates 1/2-way down and disappears.

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
Here are directions for a sample ride, leaving from the from the gravel parking lot in Fall City (see driving directions below). '''These directions are written from memory and untested; it's a large area and easy to get lost out at Tokul West.'''

From the parking lot, ride 200 feet north on Hwy 203 and turn right on SE 39th Place; at the end continue past the gate for a gentle climb up to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. When you hit the T, turn left.

With a few hundred feet, take the first trail on the right. Climb over a log and go up.
Ignore the first trail to your right. You will climb to a Y, stay right on the old road bed. That's "Lower Pink Ribbon".
Take that all the way up to a junction. Veer left (uphill, old road). Another junction, go right.
As you are climbing this old road, you will see a trail on your right. Take that. "Ridge Bypass".
When it Ts into another trail, turn left and you will climb out to a road.
Take that road (straight) to a T and go left.
'''There may be some logging along here as of April 2007?'''
Take that to another T and go right. Ignore road 30340 on your left and take the next road on your left.
You will cross a creek where the road was dug up.
Stay on that road going at least half a mile. You'll pass two trails on your left.
Before the road bends be looking for a trail on the left and another one directly across from it on the right.
Take the trail (Upper Outback) on the right and it should be a tough short climb then level off. This trail can be very mucky after rain.

Follow it until it exits onto an overgrown forest road. Turn right and follow the road; it'll eventually turn back into a trail.
Follow this one (Mousetrap) till you exit onto the road--the same you were just on.

Turn right and ride back up the road to the spot with a trail on the left and right where you previously went right.
This time, take the trail on the left.

About 20ft in take the left at the Y (onto Outhouse) until you hit a T with another trail.
Make a left (Steakhouse) and climb back up until you exit onto the same road you were just on.

Turn left and ride back up to the first trail on the left.
20ft in take the right (Outback); this is where you want to pick up the pace and enjoy the flow of this trail.

When you come to a T stay to the right; trail will soon make a sharp left turn and climb a fairly straight line to a Y.
Turn right and follow it out to a large intersection.

Turn right; you'll soon hit a dug out creek where the trail swings right and drops into the creek; on the other side, you'll find yourself on a road.
Stay on the road to the second spur on the right--usually you'll see lots of bike tracks taking that turn. Follow them, until you find a trail entry at the end of the road. This is the top of Full Bench.

Follow the trail through five switchbacks, downhill, out of the mature trees, through new growth, until it turns into a road then comes to a T with another road.

You're now in the area called the "Lower Trails".
Turn right and take the first clear trail on left (Black Bear). (If you find something horrendously overgrown, then you turned 50ft too soon.)

Exiting Black Bear, turn left then take the trail on the right (Stickerboy)
Exit onto a road, turn right, go a few hundred feet, and then take the trail on the left (Sgt Wells).
Cross a road, continue straight (unnamed trail).
Exit this trail and you should see the next trail straight ahead; this one has bras hanging
in the trees, and is called the Bra trail. (''Directions may be slightly off here; isn't there an unnamed trail section before you get to the bras?'') When the trail makes a hard left turn with a spur trail going off to the right in the bend, ignore the spur.

You'll exit into a clearing (usually has campfire remains); take the trail straight ahead; stay left ignoring spur to the right. Follow it back down to the SVT rail-trail.

Turn left and go about 300 feet (?) to find on the right the road you came in on.

This route hasn't been measured but should be about 12 miles and have about 1500 ft of climbing.

== Local Points of Interest ==
A decent place for post-ride beers is the Last Frontier Saloon in Fall City. The staff can be surly (frankly, part of the appeal) and there's usually crazy locals in there, but it's reasonably priced pub food with a decent beer selection on tap.
The Roadhouse across the street from the Last Frontier is a good stop for a full meal, with good beer on tap to boot.

== Misc. Information ==

== Advocacy Information ==
Tokul West is a part of Hancock's [[Snoqualmie Forest]], a 100,000 acre tree farm. King County has purchased most of the [http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/189284_cascades03.html development rights] for this forest, but the trails on the lower western plateau (Sgt. Wells, Monster, etc.) are zoned residential and will be homes some day.

Unofficial [[Media:Tokul-zoning.jpg | map of Tokul Creek zoning and Development Rights sale]]

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:Tokul_-_Griffin_2009_topo.jpg


</gallery>

Trail:Tokul East

2011-09-24T16:54:53Z

Justin:

Trail:Tokul West

2011-09-12T16:14:43Z

Justin:

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = Defaultimage.jpg
| grunt rating = 2
| tech rating = 2
| moderator = Maarten
| singletrack percentage = 50%
| fire road percentage = 50%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 15
| alt. change in feet = 900
| longitude = -121.887431
| latitude = 47.569432
| zipcode = 90275
| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tokul_West CENTER </googlemap>
}}


[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

== Trail Description ==
Notice (9/12/11): '''The forest is temporarily closed to recreation due to high fire danger.'''

Tokul Creek is Hancock Timber commercial working forest with miles of trail. (Please observe their rules on passive recreational use and keep an eye on the Evergreen site for summer closures during droughts.) Unfortunately many of the trails don't connect together, so you have to know your way around the area to know how to ride the forest roads to find the next trail. Very easy to get lost; recommended to go there on a club ride with someone who knows the place.

See also the background page about the [[Snoqualmie Forest]].

“Lower trails” in western-most part are flat and fairly easy. Have very muddy spots after rain. Rest of the area dries out quite well; “upper trails” are more technical but still XC trails, not downhilling trails.

Options to connect to Griffin Creek area (via SVT, 3+ mi) and Tokul East (via SVT or internal roads) as well; riding both Tokul West and East gives a 22-25mi loop.

== How to find it ==
* Via I-90: I-90 East to the Preston/Fall City Exit (#22). Left off the exit, over the freeway, right at the T, through Preston and Fall City. In Fall City at T with 202, turn right towards Snoqualmie.
* From Redmond via SR520/SR-202: Alternately, Hwy 520 to Hwy 202 South to Fall City.

In Fall City, cross the bridge and immediately turn left towards Carnation (Hwy 203). There's a lot of road construction going on at this intersection, and several businesses that were here have been demolished (there used to be a garden store, gun shop, and drive-through espresso on the right); on the left is an unpaved parking lot. That's the place.

Here is an [http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&cp=rxvgxt4v8d7q&style=o&lvl=1&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&scene=3708789 aerial view of the parking area].

===To access the trails:===

'''Riders report that the traditional access route via SE 39th Place is open; see page history for background.'''

From Fall City parking lot, ride 200 feet north on Hwy 203 and turn right on SE 39th Place; at the end continue past the gate for a gentle climb up a dirt road to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. '''Note that this dirt road - past the gate to just before the SVT - is a public easement on private property. Please be respectful of the property owner - don't stop, keep noise to a minimum and don't leave any litter behind.''' At the top of the dirt road, turn left (north) onto the SVT. You can take the first singletrack on your right after a few hundred yards and climb (several routes). Easier to find trails if you continue to a steep, loose gravely jeep trail. Stay to the right until you get into older trees, follow switchback to the left to a clearing, go straight across clearing into first of a series of singletrack trails. (The “lower trails”.)

'''Alternate access:'''
You can park at either the [[Trail:Griffin Creek | Griffin Creek]] trailhead or the [[Trail:Tokul East | Tokul East]] trailhead and ride the SVT rail-trail to Tokul West. Griffin has more parking, and is about a 4 mile (level) ride; parking at Tokul East can be crowded but is a bit closer (roughly 2mi?).

== Typical Conditions ==
West hillside trails dry very fast. "Lower" trails (Bra, Stickerboy, Sgt Wells, etc.) turn into mud bogs. Upper trails (Outback, Steakhouse, etc.) can be a bit wet but hold up quite well.

== Current Conditions ==
Notice (9/12/11): '''The forest is temporarily closed to recreation due to high fire danger.'''

06/12/2011. Trails were damp but not muddy. Saw lots of interesting paw prints along the trails. Bear? Cat? Also saw large tuffs of fir along the trail in a couple of spots. Fun ride, about 10 miles, but nothing too exciting. There was a nice view from the top of the clearcut. Had the whole place to ourselves...didn't see any other riders all day except on the SVT.

June 4th 2011
I rode it today. The single tracks I have used were in great shape. Nice downhill back to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail

Scatman 3/4
I rode there on March 4 and the conditions were great despite all the and snow we had leading up to that weekend. The trails were clear of any blow downs and standing water and heavy mud was minimal. There was some snow at the higher elevations but for the most part the riding was great. Click here for a full trail report [http://www.adventuresofscatman.com/2011/03/tokul-review/] or ride recap [http://www.adventuresofscatman.com/2011/03/tokul-ride-recap/].

[[User:Mrchris42|Mrchris42]] 19:46, 14 July 2010 (PDT)
Significant logging activity on Full Bench all the way to the area above the Beaver pond. Full Bench trail is now unridable until logging activity is done and we can get back out to find and rebuild trail.

[[User:stephen.snider|stephen.snider]] 16-Sept 2010
After a day of rain, everything is slick. No puddles on the trails yet, but technical rating ++ due to slick roots and rocks. Climbed up Clear Cut (not recommended!), lots of fallen trees, very narrow. Rode OutHouse, trail is great, but as noted, very slick in spots. Rode down in the Pink Ribbon area, and those trails are great as well.

Don't ride the Kamikaze Trail. It deteriorates 1/2-way down and disappears.

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
Here are directions for a sample ride, leaving from the from the gravel parking lot in Fall City (see driving directions below). '''These directions are written from memory and untested; it's a large area and easy to get lost out at Tokul West.'''

From the parking lot, ride 200 feet north on Hwy 203 and turn right on SE 39th Place; at the end continue past the gate for a gentle climb up to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. When you hit the T, turn left.

With a few hundred feet, take the first trail on the right. Climb over a log and go up.
Ignore the first trail to your right. You will climb to a Y, stay right on the old road bed. That's "Lower Pink Ribbon".
Take that all the way up to a junction. Veer left (uphill, old road). Another junction, go right.
As you are climbing this old road, you will see a trail on your right. Take that. "Ridge Bypass".
When it Ts into another trail, turn left and you will climb out to a road.
Take that road (straight) to a T and go left.
'''There may be some logging along here as of April 2007?'''
Take that to another T and go right. Ignore road 30340 on your left and take the next road on your left.
You will cross a creek where the road was dug up.
Stay on that road going at least half a mile. You'll pass two trails on your left.
Before the road bends be looking for a trail on the left and another one directly across from it on the right.
Take the trail (Upper Outback) on the right and it should be a tough short climb then level off. This trail can be very mucky after rain.

Follow it until it exits onto an overgrown forest road. Turn right and follow the road; it'll eventually turn back into a trail.
Follow this one (Mousetrap) till you exit onto the road--the same you were just on.

Turn right and ride back up the road to the spot with a trail on the left and right where you previously went right.
This time, take the trail on the left.

About 20ft in take the left at the Y (onto Outhouse) until you hit a T with another trail.
Make a left (Steakhouse) and climb back up until you exit onto the same road you were just on.

Turn left and ride back up to the first trail on the left.
20ft in take the right (Outback); this is where you want to pick up the pace and enjoy the flow of this trail.

When you come to a T stay to the right; trail will soon make a sharp left turn and climb a fairly straight line to a Y.
Turn right and follow it out to a large intersection.

Turn right; you'll soon hit a dug out creek where the trail swings right and drops into the creek; on the other side, you'll find yourself on a road.
Stay on the road to the second spur on the right--usually you'll see lots of bike tracks taking that turn. Follow them, until you find a trail entry at the end of the road. This is the top of Full Bench.

Follow the trail through five switchbacks, downhill, out of the mature trees, through new growth, until it turns into a road then comes to a T with another road.

You're now in the area called the "Lower Trails".
Turn right and take the first clear trail on left (Black Bear). (If you find something horrendously overgrown, then you turned 50ft too soon.)

Exiting Black Bear, turn left then take the trail on the right (Stickerboy)
Exit onto a road, turn right, go a few hundred feet, and then take the trail on the left (Sgt Wells).
Cross a road, continue straight (unnamed trail).
Exit this trail and you should see the next trail straight ahead; this one has bras hanging
in the trees, and is called the Bra trail. (''Directions may be slightly off here; isn't there an unnamed trail section before you get to the bras?'') When the trail makes a hard left turn with a spur trail going off to the right in the bend, ignore the spur.

You'll exit into a clearing (usually has campfire remains); take the trail straight ahead; stay left ignoring spur to the right. Follow it back down to the SVT rail-trail.

Turn left and go about 300 feet (?) to find on the right the road you came in on.

This route hasn't been measured but should be about 12 miles and have about 1500 ft of climbing.

== Local Points of Interest ==
A decent place for post-ride beers is the Last Frontier Saloon in Fall City. The staff can be surly (frankly, part of the appeal) and there's usually crazy locals in there, but it's reasonably priced pub food with a decent beer selection on tap.
The Roadhouse across the street from the Last Frontier is a good stop for a full meal, with good beer on tap to boot.

== Misc. Information ==

== Advocacy Information ==
Tokul West is a part of Hancock's [[Snoqualmie Forest]], a 100,000 acre tree farm. King County has purchased most of the [http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/189284_cascades03.html development rights] for this forest, but the trails on the lower western plateau (Sgt. Wells, Monster, etc.) are zoned residential and will be homes some day.

Unofficial [[Media:Tokul-zoning.jpg | map of Tokul Creek zoning and Development Rights sale]]

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:Tokul_-_Griffin_2009_topo.jpg


</gallery>

Trail:Tokul East

2011-09-12T16:11:48Z

Justin: /* Current Conditions */

Trail:Tokul East

2011-09-12T16:10:24Z

Justin:

Snoqualmie Forest

2011-09-12T16:04:07Z

Justin:

==Where is it?==
Areas we commonly refer to as "Tokul Creek" and "Griffin Creek" are very small portions of larger private land currently owned by Hancock Timber Resource Group. This vast tree farm, known as the Snoqualmie Forest, contains approximately 100,000 acres of forestland in the foothills of eastern King and Snohomish counties, extending from Fall City and the north side of Mt. Si in the South, to Mt. Index at Hwy 2 to the North. Access points to the Tree Farm near Fall City are barely 45 minutes away from downtown Seattle.

"Griffin" usually means the trail system north of (and accessed from) Griffin Creek Road. This area has been closed to recreation by the new owner.

"West Tokul" is bounded by Griffin Creek on the north, the Snoqualmie Valley trail on the west/south, and a section of private housing off of 356th Ave NE in the east. It's usually accessed by parking in Fall City and heading up SE 39th Place to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail (SVT), turning northward, and then up into the trails. (Sections 11, 2, and 1 on a topo map.)

"East Tokul" has trails closer to Snoqualmie Falls and the Tokul settlement. You can park where the SVT intersects 356th Ave NE, or in the upper parking lot at the Falls.

"West" and "East" Tokul are connected by many forest roads farther north, and you can do nice long forest road loops in the property.

==Access to Mountain Bikes?==
Hancock Timber allows passive recreational use by the public on the Tree Farm, and the land has provided an amazing array of recreational opportunities for equestrians, mountain bikers and casual hikers for many years. Because the southern boundary of the Tree Farm is adjacent to King County Park's Snoqualmie Valley Trail, which runs from Snoqualmie Falls through Carnation to Duvall, outdoor recreation enthusiasts have enjoyed easy access to the land from various access points. Although all the trails are open to mountain bikes, many of them were built by the equestrian community over the years, so please be courteous to the horse riders when you come across them on the trails.

During summer dry spells, Hancock will occasionally close the land due to fire hazards; please keep an eye on the Evergreen website for closures.

Remember also that the property is an actively harvested tree farm. You may encounter logging trucks and other vehicles, especially on weekdays. They won't expect a bicyclist; best to yield the road whenever you come across a vehicle.

==What's It Like?==
Once inside, the Tree Farm offers hundreds of miles of logging roads and doubletrack for year-round riding, as well as many miles of trails. Terrain is gentle and low enough to remain snow-free through winter months, yet contains many dips and rises that will provide ample work-out for most riders. Vast expanse of the Tree Farm provides ideal habitats for many species of wildlife, recent sightings have included deer, black bears, cougars and various birds of prey. It also offers visitors feeling of solitude inside secluded woods, despite the existence of residential developments nearby. For more information regarding the riding areas and access to them, please check out the following links:

* [[Trail:Griffin Creek | Griffin Creek]]
* [[Trail:Tokul East | Tokul East]]
* [[Trail:Tokul West | Tokul West]]

Word of caution: There are many small spur trails that will lead right to private residences that exist between Tokul East and West areas, and alongside Griffin Creek. If you happened to be exploring the area and came across No Trespassing signs, please turn around immediately in respect to the private land owners.

When you're riding in East Tokul, you may hear gun shots from the firing range near Tokul town. It's located on the other side of the SVT, far from the trails. However, people also hunt in the tree farm. Be cautious. Consider wearing bright clothing during hunting season.

==Land Ownership History==
In 2002, there was an initiative by a preservation group called the Evergreen Forest Trust to acquire the land with public funds. This failed and in 2003, Weyerhaeuser sold the land to Hancock Timber Resource Group, the current owner. Then in 2004, King County acquired the development rights to 90% of the tree farm, ensuring that it will not be lost to sprawl.

Hancock will continue to operate the property as a working forest, so this does not prevent logging except in certain reserve zones that protect views, streams, or lakes.

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2011-08-20T18:00:55Z

Justin: /* Turn-By-Turn Guide */

{{Infobox_Trailinfo2 | image name = Tiger-kids.jpg
| grunt rating =3
| tech rating=3
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 12
| alt. change in feet = 1400
| longitude = -121.931183
| latitude = 47.466687
| moderator = R1de
| zipcode = 98027

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tiger_Mountain CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


{{ombox|type=content|text=Effective July 1st, 2011: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot of Tiger Mountain
See '''[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ here]''' for information on obtaining a Discover Pass.}}

[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

== Trail Overview ==
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and DNR are building '''new trail on Tiger for mountain bikes'''. The new trail will start at the radio towers above the current entrance to Preston RR Trail at East Tiger Summit, and will connect to the the start of the Preston. The new trail will add 500 feet of vertical and a mile of new singletrack.

<center>[http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']. We need your help to build these trails. Everyone is welcome!</center>

Tiger Mountain is one of Seattle's most popular mountain biking destinations. Its close proximity to Seattle, good parking facilities, and a variety of trail difficulties draw the masses. Summer weekends see a steady stream of bikes of all types. The Preston Railroad Trail, Iverson (Fat Hand) Trail, and Northwest Timber Trail are all open to bicycles. '''The trails are typically closed seasonally from October 15 to April 15 (check exact dates below)''', but there are many miles of roads open all year long.

Trails vary in difficulty. Iverson is considered the most challenging, followed by Preston Railroad Grade and then NW Timber. Both Iverson and NW Timber have rolling grades although NW Timber has fewer roots and rocks, and easier climbs. Iverson is usually ridden from the top down because the lower section can be quite challenging to climb. NW Timber is often ridden both directions. Preston is either a climb, descent, or both and sports several challenges with rocks and roots along the way.

Contact Evergreen's Trail Crew at [mailto:trailwork@evergreenmtb.org trailwork@evergreenmtb.org] for information about work party schedules and volunteering at Tiger Mountain. You can help by volunteering, donating funds for equipment or sponsoring the food at a work party. [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to Highway 18. Continue South on Highway 18 for 4.4 miles, until you reach East Tiger Summit on your right.

There are two main parking areas, both accessed from the highway 18 summit. The upper area is gated and is locked at 8:00 PM per the sign on the gate. This area also includes pit toilets. The road to the upper area travels travels west just above the lower parking lot.

'''Effective July 1st, 2001: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot.''' [http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ See here for details on obtaining a Discover Pass]

== Typical Conditions ==
Tiger mountain can be very wet following rain, especially the Preston Railroad Trail. The Preston can ooze water for up to a week after a heavy rain, so please take this into consideration when planning your ride. Iverson and NW Timber Trails are drier, but it can still rain quite hard here.

The trails are closed seasonally from October 15 through April 15. Exact dates may vary, so check with Evergreen to see if the dates have been extended due to dry weather.

== Current Conditions ==


It's as good as it gets right now! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 16:36, 12 August 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
[[Image:EastTigerMountain.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Trail map]]

All three trails are two-way and multi-use.

[[Media:EastTigerMountain.jpg|Click here to view the '''Tiger Mountain MTB trail map'''.]]

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Tiger_Mountain.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Tiger Mountain from Switchbacks.com.

'''The Standard Road > Preston > NW Timber Trail loop'''
*Climb up the main Tiger Mountain Road. From the lower parking lot, this the gated road to your right as you head up the hill.
*After approx 2.5 miles you'll reach an intersection, stay to the left.
*About 1/3 mile further you'll see the entrance to the Preston RR Trail on your right. If you go down a big hill you've gone too far.
*Take the Preston RR Trail, it's about 4 miles long and has no intersections.
*When you come out on the road, '''take a left''' and go about 100 ft.
*'''Take a right''' turn at the first intersection.
*Follow this road for approx 2 miles. You'll go down a big dip, and then climb up a hill.
*At the Top of this hill you'll see some gravel piles and a road heading off to your right. The entrance to the NW Timber Trail is just past the road on your right.
*Take the NW Timber trail for approx 2.5 miles. There are no intersections.
*At the road, take a left and coast back down to the lower parking lot, about 1/3 of a mile '''-or-''' take the connector trail back to the upper parking lot.

'''The Iverson Loop (AKA Fat Hand Trail)'''
*At the lower parking lot, take the left-hand road (West Side Road) towards the upper lot.
*Continue past the upper lot, going around the gate.
*After about 1.5 miles, you will see the entrance to the Iverson Railroad Trail to your right.
*The trail starts with a short climb and has several short ups-and-downs before heading back down.
*At the bottom, the train intersects the connector trail just before the bridge.
*Turn right and you will quickly hit the upper parking lot.

'''West Tiger'''
*Only Puget Power Trail and High School Trail are open to mountain bikes.
*Bus Trail and Bonneville Trail are both not signed for limited use (Use your best judgment).
*All other trails are off limits to bikes
*From the bottom of the High School Trail, take your first right, then left at the 'T' up to Puget Power
*The climb up from the High School to Puget Power is 18%-20%, High School is about 15%
*High school is smooth double track, Puget Power is a middle chain ring fire access road.
*It's 2.8 miles from the High School to the High Point Trailhead. Out and back using Bonneville is about 7.5 miles
*Grunt 3 | Tech 1

''All distances are estimates here and only for general reference.''

== Local Points of Interest ==

== Misc. Information ==
A Message From the [[Washington Department of Natural Resources]]'''
DNR is the land manager and is committed to building strong partnerships with trail users and volunteers. They ask you keep the folling in mind:
* Tiger Mountain is a working forest. This means that trees are harvested to pay for things such as schools, but it also means the roads are actively used. '''Please be aware of vehicle traffic on the roads.''' This includes radio tower service vehicles which are present even when there is no active logging.
* DNR is committed to building public partnerships. They have almost no budget for recreation yet are one of the biggest providers in the state of trails that re open to mountain bikes. Help support them by supporting BBTC, voicing your support for DNR and [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W volunteering for trail work].
* Please respect the forest. DNR needs help with maintenance and any adverse uses make it hard to keep trails open and up to standard. Don't ride closed trails, respect seasonal closures, and help them keep the parking areas clean.

More information on Tiger Mountain from the DNR website [http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/OpenClosureNotices/Pages/amr_south_puget_sound_region_rec.aspx#tiger here].

== Advocacy Information ==

=== New Trails ===
{{ombox|text=Your help with trail work, starting with maintenance on the pre-existing trails (a precondition to new trails) and followed by trail work adding the new bike trails, is greatly appreciated! First ground breaking was at a work party on November 7th 2010. See the [http://bikeintelligencer.com/2010/10/mountain-bikers-get-huge-win-at-tiger-mountain/ Bike Intelligencer article on new trails].

Last work parties of the season are scheduled [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php on the Evergreen calendar].
}}

=== Working Forest ===
These trails are on Washington [http://www.dnr.wa.gov Deparment of Natural Resources] (DNR) land and are managed as working forests. DNR's charter is to actively harvest timber to pay for public buildings such as schools. DNR has almost no recreation budget and pays for trail maintenance and recreation staff through state and federal grants. We work with DNR to provide recreation opportunities while understanding that their core mission is generating revenue through timber harvesting.

Timber sales will cause logging on or near existing trails, such as the recent Iverson clear cut. DNR works with trail users to cause as little impact as is practical, and trys to get loggers to some minimal trail restoration when they are done. If you look at the recent Iverson harvest you'll notice that the harvest boundary went right next to the trail, but not across it, in an effort to have as little an impact as possible.

=== Trail Maintenance Techniques ===
These are the only 3 trails on all of Tiger Mountain that are open to mountain bikes, and these are some of the most popular mountain bike trails in the region. Add this to the fact that the hydrology is challenging and the trails are on old railroad grades and you've got the formula for trails that need to be upgraded to a very high level of durability.

Railroad grades are one of the worst scenarios for sustainable trails. The grades were often designed for temporary train use while logging, and didn't consider water management when built. The long, straight grades channel water down the trail, instead of sheeting the water off the side by designing in proper outslope and grade reversals. It is very difficult to modify railroad grades to be dry, sustainable trails, but we're showing that good progress can be made.

Instead of trying to create dry trails, something that would require decomissioning the rail grade and doing a re-route, we are focusing on creating an armored trail tread and directing water off the trail wherever possible. The Preston trail may not be dry all the time, but our maintenance techniques should create a trail tread that reduces erosion and excessive sedimentation.

=== Under the Microscope ===
Many user groups and public agencies look at Tiger Mountain as an example of mountain bike impacts on trails. This is unfortunate since these trails were literally the leftovers given to mountain bikers when we were kicked off all the good trail on Tiger Mountain in the early 1990's. These trails have difficult hydrological conditions and some sections are on old railroad grade. It is impressive what we've done to turn these "leftovers" into truly enjoyable and sustainable trails.

Please be aware that this area is looked at closely and ride accordingly. It is very important to use good trail etiquette and to obey all rules and the seasonal closures on Tiger Mountain. Also [http://bbtc.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''come out to work parties'''] and help us in our quest to turn these trails into real show-pieces!

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:EastTigerMountain.jpg
image:Tiger-wp.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_1.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_2.jpg


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">GBi03cSvaMw</videoflash>
<videoflash type="youtube">oMGtYkBVifM</videoflash>

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2011-08-20T17:59:47Z

Justin:

{{Infobox_Trailinfo2 | image name = Tiger-kids.jpg
| grunt rating =3
| tech rating=3
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 12
| alt. change in feet = 1400
| longitude = -121.931183
| latitude = 47.466687
| moderator = R1de
| zipcode = 98027

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tiger_Mountain CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


{{ombox|type=content|text=Effective July 1st, 2011: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot of Tiger Mountain
See '''[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ here]''' for information on obtaining a Discover Pass.}}

[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

== Trail Overview ==
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and DNR are building '''new trail on Tiger for mountain bikes'''. The new trail will start at the radio towers above the current entrance to Preston RR Trail at East Tiger Summit, and will connect to the the start of the Preston. The new trail will add 500 feet of vertical and a mile of new singletrack.

<center>[http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']. We need your help to build these trails. Everyone is welcome!</center>

Tiger Mountain is one of Seattle's most popular mountain biking destinations. Its close proximity to Seattle, good parking facilities, and a variety of trail difficulties draw the masses. Summer weekends see a steady stream of bikes of all types. The Preston Railroad Trail, Iverson (Fat Hand) Trail, and Northwest Timber Trail are all open to bicycles. '''The trails are typically closed seasonally from October 15 to April 15 (check exact dates below)''', but there are many miles of roads open all year long.

Trails vary in difficulty. Iverson is considered the most challenging, followed by Preston Railroad Grade and then NW Timber. Both Iverson and NW Timber have rolling grades although NW Timber has fewer roots and rocks, and easier climbs. Iverson is usually ridden from the top down because the lower section can be quite challenging to climb. NW Timber is often ridden both directions. Preston is either a climb, descent, or both and sports several challenges with rocks and roots along the way.

Contact Evergreen's Trail Crew at [mailto:trailwork@evergreenmtb.org trailwork@evergreenmtb.org] for information about work party schedules and volunteering at Tiger Mountain. You can help by volunteering, donating funds for equipment or sponsoring the food at a work party. [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to Highway 18. Continue South on Highway 18 for 4.4 miles, until you reach East Tiger Summit on your right.

There are two main parking areas, both accessed from the highway 18 summit. The upper area is gated and is locked at 8:00 PM per the sign on the gate. This area also includes pit toilets. The road to the upper area travels travels west just above the lower parking lot.

'''Effective July 1st, 2001: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot.''' [http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ See here for details on obtaining a Discover Pass]

== Typical Conditions ==
Tiger mountain can be very wet following rain, especially the Preston Railroad Trail. The Preston can ooze water for up to a week after a heavy rain, so please take this into consideration when planning your ride. Iverson and NW Timber Trails are drier, but it can still rain quite hard here.

The trails are closed seasonally from October 15 through April 15. Exact dates may vary, so check with Evergreen to see if the dates have been extended due to dry weather.

== Current Conditions ==


It's as good as it gets right now! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 16:36, 12 August 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
[[Image:EastTigerMountain.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Trail map]]

All three trails are two-way and multi-use.

[[Media:EastTigerMountain.jpg|Click here to view the '''Tiger Mountain MTB trail map'''.]]

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Tiger_Mountain.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Tiger Mountain from Switchbacks.com.

'''The Standard Road > Preston > NW Timber Trail loop'''
*Climb up the main Tiger Mountain Road. In the lower parking lot, this the gated road to your right as you head up the hill.
*After approx 2.5 miles you'll reach an intersection, stay to the left.
*About 1/3 mile further you'll see the entrance to the Preston RR Trail on your right. If you go down a big hill you've gone too far.
*Take the Preston RR Trail, it's about 4 miles long and has no intersections.
*When you come out on the road, '''take a left''' and go about 100 ft.
*'''Take a right''' turn at the first intersection.
*Follow this road for approx 2 miles. You'll go down a big dip, and then climb up a hill.
*At the Top of this hill you'll see some gravel piles and a road heading off to your right. The entrance to the NW Timber Trail is just past the road on your right.
*Take the NW Timber trail for approx 2.5 miles. There are no intersections.
*At the road, take a left and coast back down to the lower parking lot, about 1/3 of a mile '''-or-''' take the connector trail back to the upper parking lot.

'''The Iverson Loop (AKA Fat Hand Trail)'''
*At the lower parking lot, take the left-hand road (West Side Road) towards the upper lot.
*Continue past the upper lot, going around the gate.
*After about 1.5 miles, you will see the entrance to the Iverson Railroad Trail to your right.
*The trail starts with a short climb and has several short ups-and-downs before heading back down.
*At the bottom, the train intersects the connector trail just before the bridge.
*Turn right and you will quickly hit the upper parking lot.

'''West Tiger'''
*Only Puget Power Trail and High School Trail are open to mountain bikes.
*Bus Trail and Bonneville Trail are both not signed for limited use (Use your best judgment).
*All other trails are off limits to bikes
*From the bottom of the High School Trail, take your first right, then left at the 'T' up to Puget Power
*The climb up from the High School to Puget Power is 18%-20%, High School is about 15%
*High school is smooth double track, Puget Power is a middle chain ring fire access road.
*It's 2.8 miles from the High School to the High Point Trailhead. Out and back using Bonneville is about 7.5 miles
*Grunt 3 | Tech 1

''All distances are estimates here and only for general reference.''

== Local Points of Interest ==

== Misc. Information ==
A Message From the [[Washington Department of Natural Resources]]'''
DNR is the land manager and is committed to building strong partnerships with trail users and volunteers. They ask you keep the folling in mind:
* Tiger Mountain is a working forest. This means that trees are harvested to pay for things such as schools, but it also means the roads are actively used. '''Please be aware of vehicle traffic on the roads.''' This includes radio tower service vehicles which are present even when there is no active logging.
* DNR is committed to building public partnerships. They have almost no budget for recreation yet are one of the biggest providers in the state of trails that re open to mountain bikes. Help support them by supporting BBTC, voicing your support for DNR and [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W volunteering for trail work].
* Please respect the forest. DNR needs help with maintenance and any adverse uses make it hard to keep trails open and up to standard. Don't ride closed trails, respect seasonal closures, and help them keep the parking areas clean.

More information on Tiger Mountain from the DNR website [http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/OpenClosureNotices/Pages/amr_south_puget_sound_region_rec.aspx#tiger here].

== Advocacy Information ==

=== New Trails ===
{{ombox|text=Your help with trail work, starting with maintenance on the pre-existing trails (a precondition to new trails) and followed by trail work adding the new bike trails, is greatly appreciated! First ground breaking was at a work party on November 7th 2010. See the [http://bikeintelligencer.com/2010/10/mountain-bikers-get-huge-win-at-tiger-mountain/ Bike Intelligencer article on new trails].

Last work parties of the season are scheduled [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php on the Evergreen calendar].
}}

=== Working Forest ===
These trails are on Washington [http://www.dnr.wa.gov Deparment of Natural Resources] (DNR) land and are managed as working forests. DNR's charter is to actively harvest timber to pay for public buildings such as schools. DNR has almost no recreation budget and pays for trail maintenance and recreation staff through state and federal grants. We work with DNR to provide recreation opportunities while understanding that their core mission is generating revenue through timber harvesting.

Timber sales will cause logging on or near existing trails, such as the recent Iverson clear cut. DNR works with trail users to cause as little impact as is practical, and trys to get loggers to some minimal trail restoration when they are done. If you look at the recent Iverson harvest you'll notice that the harvest boundary went right next to the trail, but not across it, in an effort to have as little an impact as possible.

=== Trail Maintenance Techniques ===
These are the only 3 trails on all of Tiger Mountain that are open to mountain bikes, and these are some of the most popular mountain bike trails in the region. Add this to the fact that the hydrology is challenging and the trails are on old railroad grades and you've got the formula for trails that need to be upgraded to a very high level of durability.

Railroad grades are one of the worst scenarios for sustainable trails. The grades were often designed for temporary train use while logging, and didn't consider water management when built. The long, straight grades channel water down the trail, instead of sheeting the water off the side by designing in proper outslope and grade reversals. It is very difficult to modify railroad grades to be dry, sustainable trails, but we're showing that good progress can be made.

Instead of trying to create dry trails, something that would require decomissioning the rail grade and doing a re-route, we are focusing on creating an armored trail tread and directing water off the trail wherever possible. The Preston trail may not be dry all the time, but our maintenance techniques should create a trail tread that reduces erosion and excessive sedimentation.

=== Under the Microscope ===
Many user groups and public agencies look at Tiger Mountain as an example of mountain bike impacts on trails. This is unfortunate since these trails were literally the leftovers given to mountain bikers when we were kicked off all the good trail on Tiger Mountain in the early 1990's. These trails have difficult hydrological conditions and some sections are on old railroad grade. It is impressive what we've done to turn these "leftovers" into truly enjoyable and sustainable trails.

Please be aware that this area is looked at closely and ride accordingly. It is very important to use good trail etiquette and to obey all rules and the seasonal closures on Tiger Mountain. Also [http://bbtc.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''come out to work parties'''] and help us in our quest to turn these trails into real show-pieces!

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:EastTigerMountain.jpg
image:Tiger-wp.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_1.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_2.jpg


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">GBi03cSvaMw</videoflash>
<videoflash type="youtube">oMGtYkBVifM</videoflash>

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2011-08-20T17:55:52Z

Justin:

{{Infobox_Trailinfo2 | image name = Tiger-kids.jpg
| grunt rating =3
| tech rating=3
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 12
| alt. change in feet = 1400
| longitude = -121.931183
| latitude = 47.466687
| moderator = R1de
| zipcode = 98027

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tiger_Mountain CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


{{ombox|type=content|text=Effective July 1st, 2011: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot of Tiger Mountain
See '''[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ here]''' for information on obtaining a Discover Pass.}}

[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

== Trail Overview ==
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and DNR are building '''new trail on Tiger for mountain bikes'''. The new trail will start at the radio towers above the current entrance to Preston RR Trail at East Tiger Summit, and will connect to the the start of the Preston. The new trail will add 500 feet of vertical and a mile of new singletrack.

<center>[http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']. We need your help to build these trails. Everyone is welcome!</center>

Tiger Mountain is one of Seattle's most popular mountain biking destinations. Its close proximity to Seattle, good parking facilities, and a variety of trail difficulties draw the masses. Summer weekends see a steady stream of bikes of all types. The Preston Railroad Trail, Iverson (Fat Hand) Trail, and Northwest Timber Trail are all open to bicycles. All other trails are closed to mountain bicycles. '''The trails are typically closed seasonally from October 15 to April 15 (check exact dates below)''', but there are many miles of roads open all year long.

Contact Evergreen's Trail Crew at [mailto:trailwork@evergreenmtb.org trailwork@evergreenmtb.org] for information about work party schedules and volunteering at Tiger Mountain. You can help by volunteering, donating funds for equipment or sponsoring the food at a work party. [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to Highway 18. Continue South on Highway 18 for 4.4 miles, until you reach East Tiger Summit on your right.

=== Parking ===
There are two main parking areas, both accessed from the highway 18 summit. The upper area is gated and is locked at 8:00 PM per the sign on the gate. This area also includes pit toilets. The road to the upper area travels travels west just above the lower parking lot.

'''Effective July 1st, 2001: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot.'''

[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ See here for details on obtaining a Discover Pass]

=== Trails ===
Trails vary in difficulty. Iverson is considered the most difficult, followed by Preston Railroad Grade and then NW Timber. Both Iverson and NW Timber have rolling grades although NW Timber has less roots and rocks impeding your way. Iverson is usually ridden from the top down because the lower section can be quite challenging to climb. NW Timber is often ridden both directions. Preston is either a climb, descent, or both and sports several challenges with rocks and roots along the way.

== Typical Conditions ==
Tiger mountain can be very wet following rain, especially the Preston Railroad Trail. The Preston can ooze water for up to a week after a heavy rain, so please take this into consideration when planning your ride. Iverson and NW Timber Trails are drier, but it can still rain quite hard here.

The trails are closed seasonally from October 15 through April 15. Exact dates may vary, so check with Evergreen to see if the dates have been extended due to dry weather.

== Current Conditions ==


It's as good as it gets right now! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 16:36, 12 August 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
[[Image:EastTigerMountain.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Trail map]]

All three trails are two-way and multi-use.

[[Media:EastTigerMountain.jpg|Click here to view the '''Tiger Mountain MTB trail map'''.]]

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Tiger_Mountain.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Tiger Mountain from Switchbacks.com.

'''The Standard Road > Preston > NW Timber Trail loop'''
*Climb up the main Tiger Mountain Road. In the lower parking lot, this the gated road to your right as you head up the hill.
*After approx 2.5 miles you'll reach an intersection, stay to the left.
*About 1/3 mile further you'll see the entrance to the Preston RR Trail on your right. If you go down a big hill you've gone too far.
*Take the Preston RR Trail, it's about 4 miles long and has no intersections.
*When you come out on the road, '''take a left''' and go about 100 ft.
*'''Take a right''' turn at the first intersection.
*Follow this road for approx 2 miles. You'll go down a big dip, and then climb up a hill.
*At the Top of this hill you'll see some gravel piles and a road heading off to your right. The entrance to the NW Timber Trail is just past the road on your right.
*Take the NW Timber trail for approx 2.5 miles. There are no intersections.
*At the road, take a left and coast back down to the lower parking lot, about 1/3 of a mile '''-or-''' take the connector trail back to the upper parking lot.

'''The Iverson Loop (AKA Fat Hand Trail)'''
*At the lower parking lot, take the left-hand road (West Side Road) towards the upper lot.
*Continue past the upper lot, going around the gate.
*After about 1.5 miles, you will see the entrance to the Iverson Railroad Trail to your right.
*The trail starts with a short climb and has several short ups-and-downs before heading back down.
*At the bottom, the train intersects the connector trail just before the bridge.
*Turn right and you will quickly hit the upper parking lot.

'''West Tiger'''
*Only Puget Power Trail and High School Trail are open to mountain bikes.
*Bus Trail and Bonneville Trail are both not signed for limited use (Use your best judgment).
*All other trails are off limits to bikes
*From the bottom of the High School Trail, take your first right, then left at the 'T' up to Puget Power
*The climb up from the High School to Puget Power is 18%-20%, High School is about 15%
*High school is smooth double track, Puget Power is a middle chain ring fire access road.
*It's 2.8 miles from the High School to the High Point Trailhead. Out and back using Bonneville is about 7.5 miles
*Grunt 3 | Tech 1

''All distances are estimates here and only for general reference.''

== Local Points of Interest ==

== Misc. Information ==
A Message From the [[Washington Department of Natural Resources]]'''
DNR is the land manager and is committed to building strong partnerships with trail users and volunteers. They ask you keep the folling in mind:
* Tiger Mountain is a working forest. This means that trees are harvested to pay for things such as schools, but it also means the roads are actively used. '''Please be aware of vehicle traffic on the roads.''' This includes radio tower service vehicles which are present even when there is no active logging.
* DNR is committed to building public partnerships. They have almost no budget for recreation yet are one of the biggest providers in the state of trails that re open to mountain bikes. Help support them by supporting BBTC, voicing your support for DNR and [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W volunteering for trail work].
* Please respect the forest. DNR needs help with maintenance and any adverse uses make it hard to keep trails open and up to standard. Don't ride closed trails, respect seasonal closures, and help them keep the parking areas clean.

More information on Tiger Mountain from the DNR website [http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/OpenClosureNotices/Pages/amr_south_puget_sound_region_rec.aspx#tiger here].

== Advocacy Information ==

=== New Trails ===
{{ombox|text=Your help with trail work, starting with maintenance on the pre-existing trails (a precondition to new trails) and followed by trail work adding the new bike trails, is greatly appreciated! First ground breaking was at a work party on November 7th 2010. See the [http://bikeintelligencer.com/2010/10/mountain-bikers-get-huge-win-at-tiger-mountain/ Bike Intelligencer article on new trails].

Last work parties of the season are scheduled [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php on the Evergreen calendar].
}}

=== Working Forest ===
These trails are on Washington [http://www.dnr.wa.gov Deparment of Natural Resources] (DNR) land and are managed as working forests. DNR's charter is to actively harvest timber to pay for public buildings such as schools. DNR has almost no recreation budget and pays for trail maintenance and recreation staff through state and federal grants. We work with DNR to provide recreation opportunities while understanding that their core mission is generating revenue through timber harvesting.

Timber sales will cause logging on or near existing trails, such as the recent Iverson clear cut. DNR works with trail users to cause as little impact as is practical, and trys to get loggers to some minimal trail restoration when they are done. If you look at the recent Iverson harvest you'll notice that the harvest boundary went right next to the trail, but not across it, in an effort to have as little an impact as possible.

=== Trail Maintenance Techniques ===
These are the only 3 trails on all of Tiger Mountain that are open to mountain bikes, and these are some of the most popular mountain bike trails in the region. Add this to the fact that the hydrology is challenging and the trails are on old railroad grades and you've got the formula for trails that need to be upgraded to a very high level of durability.

Railroad grades are one of the worst scenarios for sustainable trails. The grades were often designed for temporary train use while logging, and didn't consider water management when built. The long, straight grades channel water down the trail, instead of sheeting the water off the side by designing in proper outslope and grade reversals. It is very difficult to modify railroad grades to be dry, sustainable trails, but we're showing that good progress can be made.

Instead of trying to create dry trails, something that would require decomissioning the rail grade and doing a re-route, we are focusing on creating an armored trail tread and directing water off the trail wherever possible. The Preston trail may not be dry all the time, but our maintenance techniques should create a trail tread that reduces erosion and excessive sedimentation.

=== Under the Microscope ===
Many user groups and public agencies look at Tiger Mountain as an example of mountain bike impacts on trails. This is unfortunate since these trails were literally the leftovers given to mountain bikers when we were kicked off all the good trail on Tiger Mountain in the early 1990's. These trails have difficult hydrological conditions and some sections are on old railroad grade. It is impressive what we've done to turn these "leftovers" into truly enjoyable and sustainable trails.

Please be aware that this area is looked at closely and ride accordingly. It is very important to use good trail etiquette and to obey all rules and the seasonal closures on Tiger Mountain. Also [http://bbtc.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''come out to work parties'''] and help us in our quest to turn these trails into real show-pieces!

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:EastTigerMountain.jpg
image:Tiger-wp.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_1.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_2.jpg


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">GBi03cSvaMw</videoflash>
<videoflash type="youtube">oMGtYkBVifM</videoflash>

Trail:Tiger Mountain

2011-08-20T17:54:32Z

Justin:

{{Infobox_Trailinfo2 | image name = Tiger-kids.jpg
| grunt rating =3
| tech rating=3
| singletrack percentage = 60%
| fire road percentage = 40%
| paved percentage = 0%
| distance in miles = 12
| alt. change in feet = 1400
| longitude = -121.931183
| latitude = 47.466687
| moderator = R1de
| zipcode = 98027

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Tiger_Mountain CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


{{ombox|type=content|text=Effective July 1st, 2011: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot of Tiger Mountain
See '''[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ here]''' for information on obtaining a Discover Pass.}}

[[Category:I90]]
[[Category:Seattle Metro]]

== Trail Overview ==
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and DNR are building '''new trail on Tiger for mountain bikes'''. The new trail will start at the radio towers above the current entrance to Preston RR Trail at East Tiger Summit, and will connect to the the start of the Preston. The new trail will add 500 feet of vertical and a mile of new singletrack.

<center>[http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']. Help us build the new trail, and do rework on Preston to make it drier. Trail work is rewarding and fun, everyone is welcome!</center>

Tiger Mountain is one of Seattle's most popular mountain biking destinations. Its close proximity to Seattle, good parking facilities, and a variety of trail difficulties draw the masses. Summer weekends see a steady stream of bikes of all types. The Preston Railroad Trail, Iverson (Fat Hand) Trail, and Northwest Timber Trail are all open to bicycles. All other trails are closed to mountain bicycles. '''The trails are typically closed seasonally from October 15 to April 15 (check exact dates below)''', but there are many miles of roads open all year long.

Contact Evergreen's Trail Crew at [mailto:trailwork@evergreenmtb.org trailwork@evergreenmtb.org] for information about work party schedules and volunteering at Tiger Mountain. You can help by volunteering, donating funds for equipment or sponsoring the food at a work party. [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''Sign up for trailwork''']

== How to find it ==
From Seattle take I-90 East to Highway 18. Continue South on Highway 18 for 4.4 miles, until you reach East Tiger Summit on your right.

=== Parking ===
There are two main parking areas, both accessed from the highway 18 summit. The upper area is gated and is locked at 8:00 PM per the sign on the gate. This area also includes pit toilets. The road to the upper area travels travels west just above the lower parking lot.

'''Effective July 1st, 2001: a Discover Pass will be required to park at either lot.'''

[http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ See here for details on obtaining a Discover Pass]

=== Trails ===
Trails vary in difficulty. Iverson is considered the most difficult, followed by Preston Railroad Grade and then NW Timber. Both Iverson and NW Timber have rolling grades although NW Timber has less roots and rocks impeding your way. Iverson is usually ridden from the top down because the lower section can be quite challenging to climb. NW Timber is often ridden both directions. Preston is either a climb, descent, or both and sports several challenges with rocks and roots along the way.

== Typical Conditions ==
Tiger mountain can be very wet following rain, especially the Preston Railroad Trail. The Preston can ooze water for up to a week after a heavy rain, so please take this into consideration when planning your ride. Iverson and NW Timber Trails are drier, but it can still rain quite hard here.

The trails are closed seasonally from October 15 through April 15. Exact dates may vary, so check with Evergreen to see if the dates have been extended due to dry weather.

== Current Conditions ==


It's as good as it gets right now! [[User:R1de|R1de]] 16:36, 12 August 2011 (PDT)

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==
[[Image:EastTigerMountain.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Trail map]]

All three trails are two-way and multi-use.

[[Media:EastTigerMountain.jpg|Click here to view the '''Tiger Mountain MTB trail map'''.]]

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Tiger_Mountain.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Tiger Mountain from Switchbacks.com.

'''The Standard Road > Preston > NW Timber Trail loop'''
*Climb up the main Tiger Mountain Road. In the lower parking lot, this the gated road to your right as you head up the hill.
*After approx 2.5 miles you'll reach an intersection, stay to the left.
*About 1/3 mile further you'll see the entrance to the Preston RR Trail on your right. If you go down a big hill you've gone too far.
*Take the Preston RR Trail, it's about 4 miles long and has no intersections.
*When you come out on the road, '''take a left''' and go about 100 ft.
*'''Take a right''' turn at the first intersection.
*Follow this road for approx 2 miles. You'll go down a big dip, and then climb up a hill.
*At the Top of this hill you'll see some gravel piles and a road heading off to your right. The entrance to the NW Timber Trail is just past the road on your right.
*Take the NW Timber trail for approx 2.5 miles. There are no intersections.
*At the road, take a left and coast back down to the lower parking lot, about 1/3 of a mile '''-or-''' take the connector trail back to the upper parking lot.

'''The Iverson Loop (AKA Fat Hand Trail)'''
*At the lower parking lot, take the left-hand road (West Side Road) towards the upper lot.
*Continue past the upper lot, going around the gate.
*After about 1.5 miles, you will see the entrance to the Iverson Railroad Trail to your right.
*The trail starts with a short climb and has several short ups-and-downs before heading back down.
*At the bottom, the train intersects the connector trail just before the bridge.
*Turn right and you will quickly hit the upper parking lot.

'''West Tiger'''
*Only Puget Power Trail and High School Trail are open to mountain bikes.
*Bus Trail and Bonneville Trail are both not signed for limited use (Use your best judgment).
*All other trails are off limits to bikes
*From the bottom of the High School Trail, take your first right, then left at the 'T' up to Puget Power
*The climb up from the High School to Puget Power is 18%-20%, High School is about 15%
*High school is smooth double track, Puget Power is a middle chain ring fire access road.
*It's 2.8 miles from the High School to the High Point Trailhead. Out and back using Bonneville is about 7.5 miles
*Grunt 3 | Tech 1

''All distances are estimates here and only for general reference.''

== Local Points of Interest ==

== Misc. Information ==
A Message From the [[Washington Department of Natural Resources]]'''
DNR is the land manager and is committed to building strong partnerships with trail users and volunteers. They ask you keep the folling in mind:
* Tiger Mountain is a working forest. This means that trees are harvested to pay for things such as schools, but it also means the roads are actively used. '''Please be aware of vehicle traffic on the roads.''' This includes radio tower service vehicles which are present even when there is no active logging.
* DNR is committed to building public partnerships. They have almost no budget for recreation yet are one of the biggest providers in the state of trails that re open to mountain bikes. Help support them by supporting BBTC, voicing your support for DNR and [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W volunteering for trail work].
* Please respect the forest. DNR needs help with maintenance and any adverse uses make it hard to keep trails open and up to standard. Don't ride closed trails, respect seasonal closures, and help them keep the parking areas clean.

More information on Tiger Mountain from the DNR website [http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/OpenClosureNotices/Pages/amr_south_puget_sound_region_rec.aspx#tiger here].

== Advocacy Information ==

=== New Trails ===
{{ombox|text=Your help with trail work, starting with maintenance on the pre-existing trails (a precondition to new trails) and followed by trail work adding the new bike trails, is greatly appreciated! First ground breaking was at a work party on November 7th 2010. See the [http://bikeintelligencer.com/2010/10/mountain-bikers-get-huge-win-at-tiger-mountain/ Bike Intelligencer article on new trails].

Last work parties of the season are scheduled [http://evergreenmtb.org/recreation/calendar.php on the Evergreen calendar].
}}

=== Working Forest ===
These trails are on Washington [http://www.dnr.wa.gov Deparment of Natural Resources] (DNR) land and are managed as working forests. DNR's charter is to actively harvest timber to pay for public buildings such as schools. DNR has almost no recreation budget and pays for trail maintenance and recreation staff through state and federal grants. We work with DNR to provide recreation opportunities while understanding that their core mission is generating revenue through timber harvesting.

Timber sales will cause logging on or near existing trails, such as the recent Iverson clear cut. DNR works with trail users to cause as little impact as is practical, and trys to get loggers to some minimal trail restoration when they are done. If you look at the recent Iverson harvest you'll notice that the harvest boundary went right next to the trail, but not across it, in an effort to have as little an impact as possible.

=== Trail Maintenance Techniques ===
These are the only 3 trails on all of Tiger Mountain that are open to mountain bikes, and these are some of the most popular mountain bike trails in the region. Add this to the fact that the hydrology is challenging and the trails are on old railroad grades and you've got the formula for trails that need to be upgraded to a very high level of durability.

Railroad grades are one of the worst scenarios for sustainable trails. The grades were often designed for temporary train use while logging, and didn't consider water management when built. The long, straight grades channel water down the trail, instead of sheeting the water off the side by designing in proper outslope and grade reversals. It is very difficult to modify railroad grades to be dry, sustainable trails, but we're showing that good progress can be made.

Instead of trying to create dry trails, something that would require decomissioning the rail grade and doing a re-route, we are focusing on creating an armored trail tread and directing water off the trail wherever possible. The Preston trail may not be dry all the time, but our maintenance techniques should create a trail tread that reduces erosion and excessive sedimentation.

=== Under the Microscope ===
Many user groups and public agencies look at Tiger Mountain as an example of mountain bike impacts on trails. This is unfortunate since these trails were literally the leftovers given to mountain bikers when we were kicked off all the good trail on Tiger Mountain in the early 1990's. These trails have difficult hydrological conditions and some sections are on old railroad grade. It is impressive what we've done to turn these "leftovers" into truly enjoyable and sustainable trails.

Please be aware that this area is looked at closely and ride accordingly. It is very important to use good trail etiquette and to obey all rules and the seasonal closures on Tiger Mountain. Also [http://bbtc.org/recreation/calendar.php?view=all&event_type=W '''come out to work parties'''] and help us in our quest to turn these trails into real show-pieces!

== Photos ==
<gallery>
image:EastTigerMountain.jpg
image:Tiger-wp.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_1.jpg
image:Cole_Preston_2.jpg


</gallery>

<videoflash type="youtube">GBi03cSvaMw</videoflash>
<videoflash type="youtube">oMGtYkBVifM</videoflash>

Trail:Little Mountain

2011-04-19T17:32:18Z

Justin: Fixed Mount Vernon Trail Builders link

Trail:Tokul East

2010-06-18T21:00:14Z

Justin: Changed BBTC references to Evergreen

Trail:Lewis River

2010-04-28T16:57:49Z

Justin: /* Turn-By-Turn Guide */

File:Lewis River-from-Mount St Helens Trail Guide.pdf

2010-04-28T16:52:56Z

Justin: The five pages with map and description about the Lewis River Trail on Mount Saint Helens. Taken from the full Mt. St. Helens trail guide, published by the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

The five pages with map and description about the Lewis River Trail on Mount Saint Helens. Taken from the full Mt. St. Helens trail guide, published by the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Trail:Lewis River

2010-04-28T16:48:40Z

Justin: Added map

File:Lewis-River-map.jpg

2010-04-28T16:46:23Z

Justin: Map of the Lewis River Trail on Mount Saint Helens.

Map of the Lewis River Trail on Mount Saint Helens.

Trail:Grand Ridge

2010-01-09T00:20:55Z

Justin: /* Trail Overview */

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = GrandRidge-riders.jpg
| tech rating =2
| grunt rating =3
| singletrack percentage = 95%
| fire road percentage = 4%
| paved percentage = 1%
| distance in miles = 7
| alt. change in feet = 1100'
| latitude = 47.5328350666615
| longitude = -121.979119777679
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98029

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Grand_Ridge CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


'''FYI:''' WTA will be there late December and Early January

== Trail Overview ==

Grand Ridge is both an oldie and a new trail: while new residential development wiped out some of the trails we rode in the past, a new trail system has been under development by King County Parks and the WTA. (Check out wta.org for work parties.) You access it the same way as ever: by climbing up from I-90. The trail can also be accessed from the top of the Issaquah Highlands development.

The main trail winds north across Grand Ridge towards Duthie Hill Park.

This is a great XC work out, with great climbing practice. Plus, it can be linked with trails on the south side of I-90 to create longer loops. This trail connects with Duthie Hill Bike Park and will eventually (10 years?) continue up to Soaring Eagle (aka, The Beav) for a suburban epic.

The climb from I-90 up to the plateau is a grunt, but not too long. When coming from Duthie Hill, the long climb up to Grand Ridge Drive is even more of a grunt, and is pretty darn hard to clean on a single speed. With gears, it's still a fairly physical ride.

== How to find it ==

Trail starts at KC Parks sign on RR grade on the north side of I 90 between Exit 18 and 20.

The obvious place to park is at High Point (I-90 Exit 20), on the north side of I-90. There are signs posted there warning of car break-ins, and there's little traffic coming by. Easy alternate is to park on the south side of I-90 where people hiking Tiger Mountain park. That area has also had car prowls, but will have much more traffic.

Another good starting spot is just off the Sunset interchange on I-90 (Exit 18), just as you drive down into downtown Issaquah. The parking lot is just to either side at the bottom of the ramp on East Sunset Way. From the parking lot head north over I-90 to the RR grade that heads east along the north side of I-90. After a mile or so you reach the Grand Ridge trail that heads up the hill to the left. (This parking lot is a good access to the High School Trail, described below).

A new paved trail - the High Point Connector - connects the East Lake Sammamish Trail (which turns into the Rainier Trail in downtown Issaquah) to the RR trail on I-90 east of Issaquah. This trail follows follows I-90 along the north side of the freeway. Folks living in Issaquah and Sammamish can use this link to get to Grand Ridge trails. (Note: Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust is working on establishing a bike link from these trails west to Eastgate).

There is also access to the Grand Ridge trail from the top of Issaquah Highlands. Go up to Harrison Way and then Grand Ridge Drive until you intersect with the Grand Ridge trail. DO NOT park on Grand Ridge Drive.

Yet another trail head is at Central Park in the Highlands (bathrooms). If you park by the tennis courts ride south the retention pond and find the trail at the south end or ride down the road under the power lines at the last tower find the trail that goes downhill on your right. They are working on a new trail that will start from the soccer fields, should be open early 2010.

Access from the north end. THE COUNTY ISN'T DOWN WITH PARKING ON ISSAQUAH FALL CITY ROAD! IT'S DANGEROUS! If you start early or on weekdays you can find parking at the Duthie Hill parking lot on Duthie Hill Road and ride south over the board walk up the trail through the clearing and out the access road. The lot fills up fast on weekends so it's best to park at the school at the corner of Issaquah Fall City Road and Duthie Hill Road or at the QFC lot at the light west of the school KC parks is working on more parking for the bike park. During the winter the bog at this end can have lots of water so be ready for wet feet. The trail starts just east of the gated access road. DO NOT PARK IN THE DUTHIE HILL CLEARING.

By bus from Seattle, Mercer Island or Bellevue (Eastgate), Sound Transit #554 or U-District or downtown Bellevue, Metro #271, or from Northgate/Bellevue during commute, Sound Transit #555 or from Seattle during commute times Metro #214 ( to DT iss and P&R) or #218 (to highlands P&R).
For bus riders, from the corner of Sunset and Front Street in Issaquah go east on Sunset up the hill and across I-90 on the bike path.

== Typical Conditions ==
Grand Ridge can have quite a few puddles during and immediately after a rain as there are quite a few springs and a lot of the soil doesn't drain very well. Lots of leaves in the fall cam make for a really wet ride. If you want modestly dry conditions you should wait 5 or so days after a rain.

Not crowded but does get a few hikers, families with small kids and dog walkers. Please be cautious of hikers on this trail, and consider wearing a bell so they can hear you coming.

King County has completed the bridge over the first swamp. Rumor has it that they have plans to bridge/boardwalk the longer swamp that is at the north end of the trail.

== Current Conditions ==
Jan 8, 2010 - In-progress trail maintenance plus rain has made for some sloppy sections that you need to walk. Still a fun ride, but came back fairly muddy.

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==

New map is now posted at trail heads.
http://your.kingcounty.gov/dnrp/library/parks-and-recreation/documents/trails/bc_trails/grand_ridge_trails.pdf

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Grand_Ridge.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Grand Ridge from Switchbacks.com.

From the railtrail along I-90, head uphill at the trailhead sign. Within a short climb up (0.10 mile), ignore the left turn as the trail Y's. This steep spur trail leads up to Central Park (take a left Y on that trail when you encounter one, otherwise you end up at a fence at a ballfield). Heading up the hill on a consistent grade you hit a creek crossing. Further up at the top of the hill there is another spur to the left that loops back to the main trail within the next mile, again stay right on the main trail. After the muddy section you cross Grand Ridge Drive. Follow the well-built newer section of trail along the top of Grand Ridge, heading north. After a short distance you pass a trail junction that drops down to the right (this short but wet trail leads to a county road at Grand Ridge Estates, and is a nice loop access to the GR trail via a road that goes up from High Point). Keeping straight on the main trail, the trail Y's again, to follow the newer trail that dives to the right. The next section rises, traverses through a nice forest, then falls steeply to a cedar swamp. The trail appears to end there, but resumes if you cross a small creek and pick it up again on the other side. This section rises slighlty, then flattens and descends, eventually reaching another cedar swamp. The trail once again continues -- follow the rough flat buggy trail to the continuation. Past the flat swampy area, the trail rises from the flats and continues with a climb to Issaquah-Fall City Road.

A nice loop that is easily combined with the Grand Ridge trail involves the trails (roads) on the south side of I-90 at Lake Tradition. This route follows the Issaquah High School Trail up to Lake Tradition and then to High Point, then crosses to the north side of I-90, and then west to the GR trailhead. To do this loop, take a short steep trail up from the Sunset Way parking lot at Exit 18 to get on the former railroad grade that once looped through downtown Issaquah. Take this trail south to near the high school stadium, where the High School trail turns off to the left. (Or, park at the Issaquah Community Center lot - better yet, near the Brew Pub which makes a nice return destination - and ride the paved Rainier Trail to where where it crosses 2nd Ave just south of Issaquah HS, where it turns to dirt. Ride this a short distance until you see the High School Trail taking off to the right). At the high school stadium head up the hill on a dirt road to Lake Tradition Plateau. Once you gain the powerline road at the top, follow it north to the main east-west road, and turn right and ride past Lake Tradition. After hitting the Tiger Mt. parking lot for the hikers, follow the road to I-90 High Point interchange, go under the freeway, and immediately turn left onto the old railroad grade. Follow the dirt road downhill until you hit the main trail leading north up the hill to Grand Ridge. One can get 20+ miles by following this loop, doing an out-and-back to the Duthie Hill Road, and ending up back in Issaquah. And even longer when a link to Soaring Eagle is built.

* GPS track: [http://trail.motionbased.com/trail/activity/2454273]

* [[:Image:GrandRidgePark.JPG | King County Parks Map]]

This [http://www.issaquahhighlands.com/PDF/TrailSign_121306.pdf map (PDF)] of the Issaquah Highlands neighborhood also shows the main trail.

== Local Points of Interest ==
One can debate about food, but the best ''beer'' in the vicinity as at the Issaquah Brewhouse, which has some 20 taps and many Rogue beers on tap. The Brewshouse is on Sunset Way, just west of Front Steet, Issaquah's main drag. The easiest way to find it coming back from Exit 20 is to take Exit 18, take the Sunset Way split, and go straight until just past the light at Front St.

King County's [http://www5.metrokc.gov/reports/parkinfo/getParkInfo.asp?PID=3168,Mitchell%20Hill%20Connector%20Forest Mitchell Hill Connector Forest].

== Misc. Information ==
KC Parks and WTA are working on a connector trail from near the retention pond down the the trail below the soccer fields. The bridge over the first bog is done.

Big trees for a suburban park and only the first part has been overun by invasive plants. One old tree is 24' around.
Keep an eye out for bears

Plans call for flagging a loop up to the water tower this winter. The water tower is north of Grand Ridge Drive. Looks like some good terrain with a nice slope. Also talk of adding rails to the skinny bridge.

== Advocacy Information ==
There was a battle with in KC Parks about this trail being open to bikes. It's important to show the county we care by showing up for work parties.
http://wta.org/~wta/cgi-bin/wtaweb.pl?6+tt
Also the Highlands home owners asc. has been doing some work here and there.

== Photos ==
<gallery>
Image:GrandRidge-riders.jpg
Image:DSCN0107.jpg
Image:DSCN0100.jpg
Image:GrandRidgePark.JPG
Image:Grandridge.jpg
<gallery>

Trail:Grand Ridge

2010-01-09T00:20:03Z

Justin: /* Typical Conditions */

{{Infobox Trail
| image name = GrandRidge-riders.jpg
| tech rating =2
| grunt rating =3
| singletrack percentage = 95%
| fire road percentage = 4%
| paved percentage = 1%
| distance in miles = 7
| alt. change in feet = 1100'
| latitude = 47.5328350666615
| longitude = -121.979119777679
| medical = ''Not set yet''
| moderator = ''No one yet''
| zipcode = 98029

| googlemap =<googlemap zoom="9" width="270" height="180" controls="small">
LoadFromDB Grand_Ridge CENTER
</googlemap>
}}


'''FYI:''' WTA will be there late December and Early January

== Trail Overview ==

Grand Ridge is both an oldie and a new trail: while new residential development wiped out some of the trails we rode in the past, a new trail system has been under development by King County Parks and the WTA. (Check out wta.org for work parties.) You access it the same way as ever: by climbing up from I-90. The trail can also be accessed from the top of the Issaquah Highlands development.

The main trail winds north across Grand Ridge towards Duthie Hill Park.

This is a great XC work out, with great climbing practice. Plus, it can be linked with trails on the south side of I-90 to create longer loops. This trail connects with Duthie Hill Bike Park and will eventually (10 years?) continue up to Soaring Eagle (aka, The Beav) for a suburban epic.

The climb from I-90 up to the plateau is a grunt, but not too long. When coming from Duthie Hill, the long climb up to Grand Ridge Drive is even more of a grunt, and is pretty darn hard to clean on a single speed. With gears, it's not too bad.

== How to find it ==

Trail starts at KC Parks sign on RR grade on the north side of I 90 between Exit 18 and 20.

The obvious place to park is at High Point (I-90 Exit 20), on the north side of I-90. There are signs posted there warning of car break-ins, and there's little traffic coming by. Easy alternate is to park on the south side of I-90 where people hiking Tiger Mountain park. That area has also had car prowls, but will have much more traffic.

Another good starting spot is just off the Sunset interchange on I-90 (Exit 18), just as you drive down into downtown Issaquah. The parking lot is just to either side at the bottom of the ramp on East Sunset Way. From the parking lot head north over I-90 to the RR grade that heads east along the north side of I-90. After a mile or so you reach the Grand Ridge trail that heads up the hill to the left. (This parking lot is a good access to the High School Trail, described below).

A new paved trail - the High Point Connector - connects the East Lake Sammamish Trail (which turns into the Rainier Trail in downtown Issaquah) to the RR trail on I-90 east of Issaquah. This trail follows follows I-90 along the north side of the freeway. Folks living in Issaquah and Sammamish can use this link to get to Grand Ridge trails. (Note: Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust is working on establishing a bike link from these trails west to Eastgate).

There is also access to the Grand Ridge trail from the top of Issaquah Highlands. Go up to Harrison Way and then Grand Ridge Drive until you intersect with the Grand Ridge trail. DO NOT park on Grand Ridge Drive.

Yet another trail head is at Central Park in the Highlands (bathrooms). If you park by the tennis courts ride south the retention pond and find the trail at the south end or ride down the road under the power lines at the last tower find the trail that goes downhill on your right. They are working on a new trail that will start from the soccer fields, should be open early 2010.

Access from the north end. THE COUNTY ISN'T DOWN WITH PARKING ON ISSAQUAH FALL CITY ROAD! IT'S DANGEROUS! If you start early or on weekdays you can find parking at the Duthie Hill parking lot on Duthie Hill Road and ride south over the board walk up the trail through the clearing and out the access road. The lot fills up fast on weekends so it's best to park at the school at the corner of Issaquah Fall City Road and Duthie Hill Road or at the QFC lot at the light west of the school KC parks is working on more parking for the bike park. During the winter the bog at this end can have lots of water so be ready for wet feet. The trail starts just east of the gated access road. DO NOT PARK IN THE DUTHIE HILL CLEARING.

By bus from Seattle, Mercer Island or Bellevue (Eastgate), Sound Transit #554 or U-District or downtown Bellevue, Metro #271, or from Northgate/Bellevue during commute, Sound Transit #555 or from Seattle during commute times Metro #214 ( to DT iss and P&R) or #218 (to highlands P&R).
For bus riders, from the corner of Sunset and Front Street in Issaquah go east on Sunset up the hill and across I-90 on the bike path.

== Typical Conditions ==
Grand Ridge can have quite a few puddles during and immediately after a rain as there are quite a few springs and a lot of the soil doesn't drain very well. Lots of leaves in the fall cam make for a really wet ride. If you want modestly dry conditions you should wait 5 or so days after a rain.

Not crowded but does get a few hikers, families with small kids and dog walkers. Please be cautious of hikers on this trail, and consider wearing a bell so they can hear you coming.

King County has completed the bridge over the first swamp. Rumor has it that they have plans to bridge/boardwalk the longer swamp that is at the north end of the trail.

== Current Conditions ==
Jan 8, 2010 - In-progress trail maintenance plus rain has made for some sloppy sections that you need to walk. Still a fun ride, but came back fairly muddy.

== Turn-By-Turn Guide ==

New map is now posted at trail heads.
http://your.kingcounty.gov/dnrp/library/parks-and-recreation/documents/trails/bc_trails/grand_ridge_trails.pdf

You can also view a [http://www.switchbacks.com/maps/PDFs/Grand_Ridge.pdf high-resolution GPS trail map] for Grand Ridge from Switchbacks.com.

From the railtrail along I-90, head uphill at the trailhead sign. Within a short climb up (0.10 mile), ignore the left turn as the trail Y's. This steep spur trail leads up to Central Park (take a left Y on that trail when you encounter one, otherwise you end up at a fence at a ballfield). Heading up the hill on a consistent grade you hit a creek crossing. Further up at the top of the hill there is another spur to the left that loops back to the main trail within the next mile, again stay right on the main trail. After the muddy section you cross Grand Ridge Drive. Follow the well-built newer section of trail along the top of Grand Ridge, heading north. After a short distance you pass a trail junction that drops down to the right (this short but wet trail leads to a county road at Grand Ridge Estates, and is a nice loop access to the GR trail via a road that goes up from High Point). Keeping straight on the main trail, the trail Y's again, to follow the newer trail that dives to the right. The next section rises, traverses through a nice forest, then falls steeply to a cedar swamp. The trail appears to end there, but resumes if you cross a small creek and pick it up again on the other side. This section rises slighlty, then flattens and descends, eventually reaching another cedar swamp. The trail once again continues -- follow the rough flat buggy trail to the continuation. Past the flat swampy area, the trail rises from the flats and continues with a climb to Issaquah-Fall City Road.

A nice loop that is easily combined with the Grand Ridge trail involves the trails (roads) on the south side of I-90 at Lake Tradition. This route follows the Issaquah High School Trail up to Lake Tradition and then to High Point, then crosses to the north side of I-90, and then west to the GR trailhead. To do this loop, take a short steep trail up from the Sunset Way parking lot at Exit 18 to get on the former railroad grade that once looped through downtown Issaquah. Take this trail south to near the high school stadium, where the High School trail turns off to the left. (Or, park at the Issaquah Community Center lot - better yet, near the Brew Pub which makes a nice return destination - and ride the paved Rainier Trail to where where it crosses 2nd Ave just south of Issaquah HS, where it turns to dirt. Ride this a short distance until you see the High School Trail taking off to the right). At the high school stadium head up the hill on a dirt road to Lake Tradition Plateau. Once you gain the powerline road at the top, follow it north to the main east-west road, and turn right and ride past Lake Tradition. After hitting the Tiger Mt. parking lot for the hikers, follow the road to I-90 High Point interchange, go under the freeway, and immediately turn left onto the old railroad grade. Follow the dirt road downhill until you hit the main trail leading north up the hill to Grand Ridge. One can get 20+ miles by following this loop, doing an out-and-back to the Duthie Hill Road, and ending up back in Issaquah. And even longer when a link to Soaring Eagle is built.

* GPS track: [http://trail.motionbased.com/trail/activity/2454273]

* [[:Image:GrandRidgePark.JPG | King County Parks Map]]

This [http://www.issaquahhighlands.com/PDF/TrailSign_121306.pdf map (PDF)] of the Issaquah Highlands neighborhood also shows the main trail.

== Local Points of Interest ==
One can debate about food, but the best ''beer'' in the vicinity as at the Issaquah Brewhouse, which has some 20 taps and many Rogue beers on tap. The Brewshouse is on Sunset Way, just west of Front Steet, Issaquah's main drag. The easiest way to find it coming back from Exit 20 is to take Exit 18, take the Sunset Way split, and go straight until just past the light at Front St.

King County's [http://www5.metrokc.gov/reports/parkinfo/getParkInfo.asp?PID=3168,Mitchell%20Hill%20Connector%20Forest Mitchell Hill Connector Forest].

== Misc. Information ==
KC Parks and WTA are working on a connector trail from near the retention pond down the the trail below the soccer fields. The bridge over the first bog is done.

Big trees for a suburban park and only the first part has been overun by invasive plants. One old tree is 24' around.
Keep an eye out for bears

Plans call for flagging a loop up to the water tower this winter. The water tower is north of Grand Ridge Drive. Looks like some good terrain with a nice slope. Also talk of adding rails to the skinny bridge.

== Advocacy Information ==
There was a battle with in KC Parks about this trail being open to bikes. It's important to show the county we care by showing up for work parties.
http://wta.org/~wta/cgi-bin/wtaweb.pl?6+tt
Also the Highlands home owners asc. has been doing some work here and there.

== Photos ==
<gallery>
Image:GrandRidge-riders.jpg
Image:DSCN0107.jpg
Image:DSCN0100.jpg
Image:GrandRidgePark.JPG
Image:Grandridge.jpg
<gallery>

Trail:Grand Ridge

2010-01-09T00:17:45Z

Justin: /* Current Conditions */

Trail:Grand Ridge

2009-12-21T04:55:07Z

Justin:

Trail:Angels Staircase

2009-12-21T03:23:32Z

Justin:

File:Angels-staircase.jpg

2009-12-21T03:21:39Z

Justin: Self portrait on Angel's Staircase. Photo by Scott Smith.

Self portrait on Angel's Staircase. Photo by Scott Smith.

File:Cooney.jpg

2009-12-21T03:20:54Z

Justin: Cooney Lake. Photo by Scott Smith.

Cooney Lake. Photo by Scott Smith.

Trail:Angels Staircase

2009-12-21T03:17:12Z

Justin: starter info

Trail:Angels Staircase

2009-12-19T05:48:48Z

Justin: Started Angels Staircase page

RCW 4.24.210

2009-12-08T20:55:32Z

Justin: /* Recreational use liability summary */

== Recreational use liability summary ==
Washington State Law protects land owners and land managers who allow the public to access their land for recreational purposes without charging for entrance. This law was created generations ago to protect timber companies from claims arising from recreationalists who use their land, including horse riders, fishermen, hunters and others.

The law provides protection for land managers who allow mountain bikers to use their land. Despite this protection most land managers carry insurance policies to help cover the cost of legal defense.

A land manager who charges a parking fee, but does not charge an entrance fee to use their trails may still fall within the protections of this law.

There is a movement underway to strengthen this statute by modifying the language and removing some uncertain language including latent known hazards. This change could be very positive for all outdoor adventure sports participants and all government agencies.

''This page in no way constitues legal advice.'' Talk to your attorney and don't sue us. Yeah, we know, a disclaimer on a page about liability protection is tragically ironic.

== Text of RCW 4.24.210 ==
''The following is the text of RCW 4.24.210 copied from the Washington State Legislature website.[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=4.24.210]''

'''Liability of owners or others in possession of land and water areas for injuries to recreation users — Limitation.'''

(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3) or (4) of this section, any public or private landowners or others in lawful possession and control of any lands whether designated resource, rural, or urban, or water areas or channels and lands adjacent to such areas or channels, who allow members of the public to use them for the purposes of outdoor recreation, which term includes, but is not limited to, the cutting, gathering, and removing of firewood by private persons for their personal use without purchasing the firewood from the landowner, hunting, fishing, camping, picnicking, swimming, hiking, bicycling, skateboarding or other nonmotorized wheel-based activities, hanggliding, paragliding, rock climbing, the riding of horses or other animals, clam digging, pleasure driving of off-road vehicles, snowmobiles, and other vehicles, boating, nature study, winter or water sports, viewing or enjoying historical, archaeological, scenic, or scientific sites, without charging a fee of any kind therefor, shall not be liable for unintentional injuries to such users.

<nowiki>
(2) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3) or (4) of this section, any public or private landowner or others in lawful possession and control of any lands whether rural or urban, or water areas or channels and lands adjacent to such areas or channels, who offer or allow such land to be used for purposes of a fish or wildlife cooperative project, or allow access to such land for cleanup of litter or other solid waste, shall not be liable for unintentional injuries to any volunteer group or to any other users.
</nowiki>

<nowiki>
(3) Any public or private landowner, or others in lawful possession and control of the land, may charge an administrative fee of up to twenty-five dollars for the cutting, gathering, and removing of firewood from the land.
</nowiki>

<nowiki>
(4) Nothing in this section shall prevent the liability of a landowner or others in lawful possession and control for injuries sustained to users by reason of a known dangerous artificial latent condition for which warning signs have not been conspicuously posted. A fixed anchor used in rock climbing and put in place by someone other than a landowner is not a known dangerous artificial latent condition and a landowner under subsection (1) of this section shall not be liable for unintentional injuries resulting from the condition or use of such an anchor. Nothing in RCW 4.24.200 and this section limits or expands in any way the doctrine of attractive nuisance. Usage by members of the public, volunteer groups, or other users is permissive and does not support any claim of adverse possession.
</nowiki>

<nowiki>
(5) For purposes of this section, the following are not fees:
</nowiki>

:<nowiki>(a) A license or permit issued for statewide use under authority of chapter 79A.05 RCW or Title 77 RCW; and
</nowiki>

:<nowiki>(b) A daily charge not to exceed twenty dollars per person, per day, for access to a publicly owned ORV sports park, as defined in RCW 46.09.020, or other public facility accessed by a highway, street, or nonhighway road for the purposes of off-road vehicle use.
</nowiki>

[2006 c 212 § 6. Prior: 2003 c 39 § 2; 2003 c 16 § 2; 1997 c 26 § 1; 1992 c 52 § 1; prior: 1991 c 69 § 1; 1991 c 50 § 1; 1980 c 111 § 1; 1979 c 53 § 1; 1972 ex.s. c 153 § 17; 1969 ex.s. c 24 § 2; 1967 c 216 § 2.]

===Notes:===

'''Finding'''<nowiki> -- 2003 c 16: "The legislature finds that some property owners in Washington are concerned about the possibility of liability arising when individuals are permitted to engage in potentially dangerous outdoor recreational activities, such as rock climbing. Although RCW 4.24.210 provides property owners with immunity from legal claims for any unintentional injuries suffered by certain individuals recreating on their land, the legislature finds that it is important to the promotion of rock climbing opportunities to specifically include rock climbing as one of the recreational activities that are included in RCW 4.24.210. By including rock climbing in RCW 4.24.210, the legislature intends merely to provide assurance to the owners of property suitable for this type of recreation, and does not intend to limit the application of RCW 4.24.210 to other types of recreation. By providing that a landowner shall not be liable for any unintentional injuries resulting from the condition or use of a fixed anchor used in rock climbing, the legislature recognizes that such fixed anchors are recreational equipment used by climbers for which a landowner has no duty of care." [2003 c 16 § 1.].
</nowiki>

'''Purpose'''<nowiki> -- 1972 ex.s. c 153: See RCW 79A.35.070.

</nowiki>

Off-road and nonhighway vehicles: Chapter 46.09 RCW.

Snowmobiles: Chapter 46.10 RCW.

== More information ==
* [http://imba.com IMBA] information on [http://www.imba.com/resources/trail_issues/index.html Liability and Risk Management].

* [http://www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/helpfultools/recusebrochures/washingtonrecliabbrochure.pdf 2-page brochure] from the National Park Service that describes WA State legal protection for land owners who allow recreation on their property.

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