Visit Nearby Mount Rainier National Park

National Treasure Located Just an Hour from Ten Trails

 

Ten Trails residents can count themselves lucky that the community is located just an hour’s drive from Mount Rainier National Park. As one of three national parks in Washington State and one of just 63 elite national parks in the country, Mount Rainier sees more than one million visitors in a typical year.

Training Ground for Mountaineering

Mount Rainier is an active volcano and the tallest mountain in the Cascades Mountain Range. Mountaineering teams use the mountain as a training ground for climbers who are looking to climb some of the tallest peaks in the world, like Denali or Mount Everest. Thousands attempt to climb Mount Rainier each year, but not all of them are successful in reaching the summit.

Miles of Hiking Trails

For the average park visitor who is not looking to summit the mountain, Mount Rainier National Park offers spectacular views and more than 250 miles of hiking trails. One of the most popular hikes in the park, Grove of the Patriarchs, features Douglas firs, western red hemlocks and Douglas cedars that are estimated to be more than 1,000 years old.

Plan Ahead for Road Conditions 

Based on current snow pack levels, roads to Mount Rainier National Park are predicted to be open for visitors by the end of May. Before your visit, plan ahead by checking road conditions on the passes to the park by visiting this website. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043

Head to the Coast for Low Elevation Spring Hikes 

Get a jumpstart on the summer hiking season by heading west to the Washington coast for some spectacular low-elevation hikes that offer stunning views with no special snow gear required.

Oyster Dome Trail 

Oyster Dome Trail is one of the area’s most popular hikes and for good reason. Located in the Chuckanut Mountains where the Cascades meet Samish Bay, this 6+ mile hike has it all: views, challenging terrain, boulders, and glimpses of wildlife. The difficult hike is worth the trip. At the top you can catch views of the San Juan Islands, Olympic mountains, and you can see all the way to Vancouver Island on a clear day.

Leadbetter Point Loop Hiking Trail

Located on the northern tip of the 28-mile Long Beach Peninsula, the Leadbetter Point Loop Hiking Trail is the perfect place to go if you are looking to get away from it all. Leadbetter Point is a protected habitat as part of the Willapa Bay National Wildlife Refuge and is home to the endangered snowy plover. This 3.8-mile loop weaves through sand dunes, tidal flats and dense brush forest.

Cape Disappointment 

Cape Disappointment is in the most southwestern part of the state where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. At this state park, visitors will find many trails to hike including the Cape Disappointment North Head Trail. At just over 3 miles out and back, hikers can spot views of the majestic coastline and the Cape Disappointment lighthouse. This hike is ideal during the months of May through October as the trail can get muddy in the winter months. Leashed dogs are allowed on this hike, and a Discover Pass is required for visiting the park. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043

Hike the Nearby Summit Ridge Trails

Nearby Summit Ridge offers an easygoing six-mile loop for hikers of all skill levels. While the trail is often used for mountain biking, you may see some horseback riders along the way as the path intersects with trails that connect to Henry’s Ridge and Lake Sawyer Regional Park.

Mountain Biking at Summit Ridge

The cross-country trails at Summit Ridge feature many runs for mountain biking. Most are twisty and technical trails with numerous bridges, log rides and ladders. The sight lines are good for watching out for other riders, and there is also a flow park with lines suitable for beginning, intermediate and advanced riders. The trails also connect with other cross-country trails at Black Diamond Open Space.

Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance 

Many of the trails at Summit Ridge are maintained by the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the nation’s largest statewide mountain bike association. Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance represents thousands of riders through eight regional chapters and is committed to sustainable recreation, trail maintenance, advocacy, education, volunteerism, and trail building.

Logging Trails Along the Ridge

The uppermost logging road trails up along Summit Ridge offer sweeping views of the Cascades and are less shaded than the lower trails, making them ideal for early spring hikes and catching the afternoon sunlight. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043  

Visit Nearby Lake Sawyer Regional Park for Spectacular Walking Trails

Located less than three miles from Ten Trails, Lake Sawyer Regional Park boasts some of the area’s best walking pathways! The newly-expanded trail system connects to Black Diamond Open Space which, in turn, connects to Henry’s Ridge and Summit Ridge. Avid mountain bikers or hikers who live in Ten Trails can spend a day exploring trails just outside their doorstep!

Lake Sawyer Trails

The Lake Sawyer mountain bike trail system is located in the area on the west side of Hwy 169 in Black Diamond adjacent to a mix of private property and King County Parks land. Used primarily for mountain biking, the trails consist of a mix of ladder bridges, drops and other free-ride obstacles. If you are looking for easy walking trails, access the park from the parking lot on Lake Sawyer Road Southeast. Here, residents can get to the park via a wooded trail that leads out to open space, picnic areas, and the lake itself.

Lake Sawyer Boating and Fishing

Lake Sawyer is King County’s fourth largest natural lake, and is used primarily for boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. The lake’s public boat ramp can be accessed via Lake Sawyer Road Southeast and visitors pay just a $5 parking fee. Launch motorboats or kayaks for a day spent enjoying spectacular views of Mount Rainier from these calm waters. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043        

Head to Nearby Franklin Falls for a Magical Wintertime Hiking Experience

Franklin Falls is located about an hour’s drive from Ten Trails and is a popular hiking destination in the summer months. In the winter months, however, the hike takes on a uniquely different quality because the majestic waterfall partially freezes as temperatures drop. At just a few miles roundtrip, this is a quick and easy hike that can be enjoyed by hikers of all ages.

Location and Driving Directions for Franklin Falls Trail 

Franklin Falls Trail is located near the Snoqualmie Pass and can be reached via I-90 and exit 52. During the winter months, the trail can be accessed via National Forest Road 58 (NF-58) which closes to vehicle traffic due to snow. Park in the West Summit lot and walk along NF-58 for about 1.4 miles before taking a right into the woods at the Safety Corridor sign. A five-minute descent through the wooded trail will reveal the waterfall.

Alternate Hike Along Denny Creek Trail

You can opt to take a shorter path along Denny Creek that is relatively flat with sweeping views of the river and cabins. Old growth trees provide ample shade and the river is fast-flowing much of the year.

Make Sure You Have the Proper Hiking Equipment

Because the trail is covered in snow in the winter, you will want to make sure you bring the proper snow hiking equipment for a safe and enjoyable excursion. Waterproof hiking or snow boots equipped with microspikes or crampons are essential for ensuring you do not slip on the snowy trail. Snowshoes would also be handy to have for the hike on snowy NF-58 and gaiters to keep snow from going into your shoes. Many snow hikers also opt for stability with trekking poles and other winter hiking gear. For suggestions of what gear and supplies you may need for your winter hike outing, visit REI’s website. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043      

Spend Time Outdoors this Winter Getting to Know Your Local Area 

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many of us to get more familiar with our local area than ever before. Many of us are taking more walks, exploring the areas around our homes, and sticking close to home this holiday season instead of traveling. The Pacific Northwest’s winter weather can make it challenging to take pleasure in the outdoors, but many activities can be enjoyed if you have the appropriate outdoor gear.

Snowshoe Local Trails

Take a day trip to local trails for some time spent outdoors snowshoeing. Unlike skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing requires little skill and the equipment is relatively affordable.  Local trails like Gold Creek Pond are ideal for beginning snowshoers as are the trails at Crystal Mountain Resort. For more of  a challenge, take a trip south to Mount Rainier National Park to tackle Reflection or Louise Lake Trails.

Local Ski Resorts Open with Some Restrictions 

Local ski resorts like nearby Crystal Mountain Resort or The Summit at Snoqualmie are open for skiers to enjoy the slopes with some restrictions. Face coverings are required, and each resort has a set of guidelines for skiers and snowboarders to follow during their visit–including reservations required at Crystal Mountain. Visit Crystal Mountain’s website prior to your trip to make your reservation and review guidelines as well as The Summit at Snoqualmie’s site before heading out.

Take a low-level Hike or Nature Walk 

Lower elevation hikes like Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park in Renton are ideal for the winter months! No special snow gear is required, just sturdy hiking boots and maybe a rain jacket. Other great options close to Ten Trails are Lord Hill Loop and Boulder Garden Loop. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043      

Five Nearby Hiking Trails to Check out This Spring

Some state-managed parks, wildlife areas, recreation land, boat launches, and natural areas will reopen for day-use activities on May 5, along with some trails and parks managed by the Department of Natural Resources, meaning Ten Trails residents can get back to spending more time in the great outdoors! If you and your family are looking for some picturesque nearby hikes for varying levels of ability, we have provided a few to explore. The Washington Trails Association has provided a thorough list of helpful tips for families who are looking to recreate responsibility. Please visit their website prior to embarking on your hike to review the tips, and be prepared that there’s a chance that some hiking trails and facilities may be closed when you arrive.

South Access Road | Issaquah Alps

The South Access Road Trail is the most direct route to summit Squak Mountain. This nearby mountain is one of the few places left in King County where visitors can walk through a preserved mountain rainforest. Because the land was privately owned for many years, much of the old growth forest remains and can be observed from the trail. The South Access Road Trail is 5.5 miles in length with an elevation gain of 1,606 feet.

Little Si Trail

Short but offering spectacular views, Little Si is the companion trail to the longer and steeper, Mount Si Trail. Little Si is 3.7 miles in length with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet. The rocky trail is popular with local hikers and is best accessed early in the morning to avoid crowds. Like with all Washington State trails, visitors need to display a Washington Trails Discover Pass on their vehicle when parking to hike Little Si.

Tiger Mountain Trail

Tiger Mountain Trail encompasses 15 miles of trail that extends from north to south through the Tiger Mountains with many cross trails to explore. Ten Trails families can spend days exploring the trails and its many hidden gems like Lone Rock, Custer’s Bridge and Wally’s Glen. Make a fun family game out of spotting local wildlife or counting the trail’s many small bridges and creeks.

Chybinski Loop Trail 

Chybinski Loop Trail is located in the Squak Mountain/Cougar Mountain corridor. The trail is 7.7 miles total roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,100 feet. Hikers looking for a longer loop can also access nearby trails like the Bullitt Fireplace Trail or the Coal Mine Trail. No passes or entry fees are required to access this trail.

May Valley Loop 

Located just outside of Issaquah in the Issaquah Alps, May Valley Loop Trail offers hikers gorgeous views of the city’s downtown. The trail connects with Squak Mountain State Park which features a .3 mile Pretzel Tree Trail that is perfect for little kids to explore with signs that provide a self-guided interpretive walk about the surrounding ecosystem. www.TenTrails.com 360.469.4043  

Five Reasons to Check out the Green River Gorge this Year | Ten Trails News and Blog

Ten Trails residents enjoy an active lifestyle close to outdoor activities and area recreational destinations like the nearby Green River Gorge. Read more to find out five reasons you should explore this local conservation site this year!

Search for Local Wildlife

The Green River Gorge is home to abundant wildlife like deer, elk, and black bear. Bald eagles have also been spotted in the area, and Chinook salmon use the Green River as their spawning grounds in the fall.

Hike the Hanging Gardens Trail

The 150-foot white sandstone cliffs of the Green River Gorge are home to native plants and some small cedar trees which cling to the cliff’s edge and give the Hanging Gardens Trail its name. Access to the trail is tricky as the trailhead is unmarked. Hikers can look for the red gate on the north side of Enumclaw/Franklin Road SE and take a short walk down the road to a primitive trail that leads down to the Green River and offers views of the cliff gardens.

Go Tubing on the Green River

In the summer months, the Green River is a popular tubing site for locals who are looking for some relief from the heat. Popular tubing routes are from Flaming Geyser Park to the SR18 Bridge (2.5 hours) or from Flaming Geyser to Whitney Bridge (45 minutes.) Be sure to wear a life vest and keep an eye out for local kayakers who are also known to spend time navigating these portions of the river.

View the Maid of the Mist Falls

Also commonly known as the “Green River Gorge Falls” the 50-foot Maid of the Mist waterfall is clearly visible with just a short hike from the historic Franklin Ghost Town trail. The trail is part of privately-owned land, but the public is welcome to visit the falls and tour the Franklin Ghost Town trail for a $5 fee.

Search for Fossils and Petrified Wood 

The Green River has been known to wash up the ancient remains of plant and wildlife and visitors to the Green River Gorge have come across fossils and petrified wood while strolling the riverbanks. Bring the kids and let them have a blast playing archaeologist for the day while hunting for prehistoric treasures. 360.469.4043 www.TenTrails.com  

Top Five Ways to Get Fit in Your New Hometown

It’s a new year and what better time than now to focus on fitness goals? Residents of Ten Trails have ample opportunities to get fit using our many community amenities and through easy access to local outdoor recreation sites!

Ten Trails Bike Lanes

Ten Trails’ community bike lanes make cycling safer and a convenient and healthy way to get around. Take your bike for a spin around the community in the new year, or hop on your bike next time you want to visit neighbors instead of getting in your car. Not only will you be doing something healthy for yourself, but biking is better for the environment as well!

Parks and Green Space 

Outdoor activities are a great way to get fit in the new year! Ten Trails is committed to providing open spaces for residents and the public to enjoy, including many parks and green spaces that are ideal for outdoor recreation and fitness. At a minimum, there will be approximately 500 acres of open space within the community when it is complete. This will be comprised of wetlands, buffers, critical areas, natural areas, both passive and active park spaces and trails.

Walking/Jogging Paths at Ten Trails

When development has finished, Ten Trails will have at least ten distinctly different trails for residents to use for walking, biking, fitness and more! Currently, our paved trails connect the different sections of the neighborhood and nature trails weave through forested areas of the community. Enjoy walking or running through Ten Trails while admiring the beautiful views of nature and the mountains.

Community Sports

If your preference is to stay active through playing sports, then Ten Trails has plenty to offer! The community’s large Civic Park has basketball hoops, a sports court, two bocce ball courts and large event lawn that is perfect for a game of kickball or touch football with the neighbors.

Nearby Outdoor Recreation

Ten Trails is conveniently located near some of the Pacific Northwest’s finest outdoor recreation sites like Black Diamond Open Space, Crystal Mountain Resort, the Cascade Mountain range, the Issaquah Alps and Mount Rainier National Park. Opportunities to get fit via hiking, camping, rock-climbing, mountain-biking, and more are just a short drive from the community. 360.469.4043 www.TenTrails.com

Water Sports, Picnicking and More at Nearby Flaming Geyser State Park

Located just a few miles due south of Ten Trails, Flaming Geyser State Park is a great spring day activity spot for Ten Trails families!

Flaming Geyser 

The park’s name comes from a remarkable geological feature of  once-active cluster of methane seeps. Due to depletion of the methane, there’s no longer any flame at Flaming Geyser, but visitors can read all about the history of the flame on a series of interpretive park panels.

Rafting, Tubing and Kayaking

Flaming Geyser has more than three miles of freshwater shoreline on the Green River for access by rafts, kayaks and river tubes. When the dog days of summer hit, and Ten Trails residents need some relief from the heat, the icy-cold waters of the Green River are a great place to cool off and hang out with friends and neighbors.

Guided and Interpretive Tours 

Visitors can schedule an interpretive walk through Flaming Geyser Park with a park ranger, or take a self-guided salmon interpretive trail walk using signage that is located along the river. In addition to touring, visitors can play a game of volleyball on one of  park’s four volleyball courts or hike along some of the park’s many trails.

Get Your Washington State Parks Discover Pass

An annual Washington State Parks Discover Pass or one-day pass is required for entry into Flaming Geyser Park and many other parks near Ten Trails. Learn how to get your Discover Pass here! 360-469-4043 www.TenTrails.com