Nook Trail Loop

Published 9:00 pm Friday, April 16, 2004

What: An often-crowded Tiger Mountain loop that affords a view of the immense Talus Rocks.

Where: From southbound I-5, take I-90 east to Exit 20. Turn right and then immediately make another right onto SE 79th Street. Pass through a white gate after 0.5 miles (The gate is closed after 6 p.m.) and continue to the High Point Trailhead. Park in the gravel lot or, if the lot is full, park along the roadside and walk up hill to the trailhead.

Length: 3.3 miles.

Difficulty: Intermediate.

Beginning elevation: 520 feet.

High point: 1,140 feet.

Restrictions: Day use only. Dogs OK on leash.

Map: Green Trails No. 204S (Tiger Mountain).

Notes: From the trailhead, go right and then turn left at a trail intersection, passing through a wood gate. Turn left onto West Tiger No. 3 trail and begin a steep climb. Don’t be deterred by the punishing slope – relief is on the way. One mile in, turn right at a fork onto Connector Trail and continue to the massive moss-covered Talus Rocks. You might have to battle other hikers for an ideal view of the impressive formation on this popular family-friendly loop. To start the descent, stay right and turn onto Nook Trail. A walk through a quiet valley leads past several small creeks. Reach a well-maintained crossroads (Old Bus Road Trail) and turn right, continuing to the trailhead.

Mike Cane