Situated in the Issaquah Alps, Squak Mountain offers an intricate network of trails that invite runners of all levels to explore its rich landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner seeking challenging terrain or a newcomer looking for a peaceful escape from city life, these trails provide the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. As one local runner recently shared with me, “There’s something special about running through Squak’s dense forests—the way sunlight filters through the canopy creates an almost magical experience that keeps me coming back week after week.”
Trail running on Squak Mountain isn’t just about exercise; it’s about connecting with nature and discovering the wonderful aspects of our local wilderness. From the gentle switchbacks of the Eastern Ridge Trail to the more demanding climbs of the Central Peak Trail, each path offers its own unique view of this remarkable mountain. The trail system interconnects beautifully, allowing runners to customize their routes based on time, energy, and desired difficulty level. Let’s explore what makes Squak Mountain a valued destination for our running community.
Squak Mountain’s trail system spans over 35 miles of diverse terrain, offering everything from gentle forest paths to challenging steep climbs. The mountain’s interconnected network allows runners to create loops of varying distances and difficulty levels. Popular routes include the moderate 6-mile East Ridge Loop, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Sammamish, and the more challenging 10-mile Summit Loop that takes you to the mountain’s highest point at 2,024 feet. The trails feature a mix of smooth single-track and technical sections with roots and rocks, making them perfect for runners looking to improve their trail skills while enjoying the mountain’s lush, second-growth forest environment.
“I started trail running on Squak Mountain after years of pounding pavement, and it completely transformed my relationship with running,” shares Maria Chen, a local ultramarathon runner. “The varied terrain forced me to slow down and be present, and I found myself noticing details in nature I’d never appreciated before.” Another regular, Tom Williams, adds, “What I love about Squak is how it changes with the seasons. Spring brings wildflowers and birdsong, summer offers cool refuge under the canopy, fall explodes with color, and winter reveals views through the bare trees that you’d never see otherwise. It’s like having four different mountains to explore throughout the year.”
The trails of Squak Mountain have become a natural gathering place for our local running community. The Issaquah Trail Runners group meets every Saturday morning at the Squak Mountain Trailhead for group runs catering to various paces and distances. These weekly gatherings have fostered friendships and training partnerships that extend beyond the trails. The annual Squak Mountain Trail Series, held each spring, draws participants from across the region for 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances. What begins as a competitive event often transforms into a celebration of our shared love for these trails, with runners lingering at the finish line to exchange stories and trail tips.
For those new to Squak Mountain, several trailheads provide access to the trail system. The most popular entry points include the Squak Mountain Trailhead off Issaquah-Hobart Road (with parking for about 20 cars) and the May Valley Trailhead (smaller lot with space for 10 vehicles). The trails are accessible year-round, though winter months can bring muddy conditions and occasional snow at higher elevations. Trail runners should always carry the ten essentials when exploring Squak Mountain, including water, navigation tools, and extra layers, as weather conditions can change quickly. Cell service is spotty throughout the mountain, so downloading trail maps in advance is highly recommended for safe exploration of this beautiful wilderness right in our backyard.
