West Tiger #2 Trail

Parking for the West Tiger #2 Trail is typically available at trailheads within the Tiger Mountain State Forest. A Discover Pass is required for parking in the area.

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for parking at trailheads within the West Tiger Mountain Natural Resources Conservation Area. This pass supports the maintenance of state recreation lands.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash at all times, as per park regulations.

The trail can be hiked year-round, but for the best views and most comfortable conditions, late spring through early fall is ideal. During the colder months, particularly outside of peak season, you might encounter intermittent snow at higher elevations, though it's often manageable without special equipment.

The terrain is diverse. It often starts on a wide, flat gravel path before steadily gaining elevation. As you ascend, it transitions to singletrack sections, some of which are notably steep. Near the summits, expect rocky areas with loose rocks and gravel. Some routes, like the K-3 Trail, can be slick with wet roots. The trail passes through a lush forest, providing ample shade.

While much of the ascent is forested, offering 'peek-a-boo' views, the summit of West Tiger #2 provides panoramic and gorgeous vistas on clear days. You can enjoy views of Seattle, Bellevue, Lake Sammamish, the Olympic Mountains, and the Cascade Range, including Mount Rainier and Mount Baker. The forest itself also offers scenic beauty with varied flora.

Yes, the trail offers several notable points. You'll find the West Tiger 3 Summit View and the View of Lake Sammamish from West Tiger 2. The summit of West Tiger #2 is also marked by a radio tower, and a hiker's hut can be found at West Tiger #1 if you extend your hike.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Seattle View Trail, Cable Line Trail, Section Line Trail, and West Tiger 3 Trail. This interconnectedness allows for various loop options and extended hikes within the larger Tiger Mountain State Forest.

The West Tiger #2 Trail is generally considered a challenging or strenuous hike, designed to elevate your heart rate. It involves significant elevation gain, often around 2,400 feet over a 7.5-mile distance for summit routes. While some sections have manageable gradients, the final pushes to the summits can be very steep. It might be challenging for absolute beginners but is a rewarding workout for those with some hiking experience.

Based on a typical route, a hike on this trail can take approximately 21 minutes for the 1.1 km distance, though this can vary significantly depending on your pace, the specific route taken, and whether you combine it with other peaks. Longer routes to the summit involving significant elevation gain can take several hours.

Views from West Tiger #2 are often considered superior to those from West Tiger #3. If panoramic vistas are your priority, ensure your route includes the West Tiger #2 summit. Additionally, arriving early, especially on weekends, can help secure parking as it's a popular destination.