Hike 5: Debbie's Lookout on Squak Mountain
For our fifth hike, we went to Debbie’s Lookout on Squak Mountain. Squak Mountain is part of the Issaquah Alps, and our hike was about 8 miles round trip, with 1500 ft. elevation gain. On this hike were Craig, Leah, Brook and myself, along with our neighbor across the street, Drea. When we moved into our house, Drea and Dave welcomed us into the neighborhood, and I am happy to call them friends, as well as neighbors.
Leah, Drea, and Brook on the trail
Squak Mountain is named after the place-name in the Southern Lushootseed language spoken by some Salish tribes. This park was formerly a parcel of land that was mined for coal, and in 1972, the Bullitt family granted 590 acres to the state, to create the park. Since then, the park has expanded to 1545 acres.
The trail to Debbie’s View, and to Central Peak starts off from the parking lot at May Valley road. You know what that means…time for the traditional parking lot selfie!
Patrick, Brook, Leah, Craig, and Drea staring into the sun
About 500 feet from the trailhead, the road splits off into two trails. To the left is a beautiful little interpretive trail that is flat, and features signs that tell a story of animals in the woods. This is a wonderful little walk for small children, as it tells a story, and is a nice easy walk. To the left, is the trail we are taking, up to Debbie’s view.
Craig with his game face on
The trail starts out at a nice even rate of elevation, as it begins with series of switchbacks. This also serves as a horse trail, as we soon saw!
Equestrian on the trail
After the horse trail portion of the hike ends, there is a steep incline, followed by a beautiful plateau, where we realized exactly how high we’ve climbed, as there was snow on the undergrowth!
Patrick in snowy ferns
We begin to hit the snow line
After a brief series of switchbacks, we encountered an offshoot trail, and reached our destination.
From Debbie’s view, we were able to see the Fairwood and Cascade neighborhoods of Renton, and further in the distance, the City of Kent.
Patrick at Debbie’s view
We were very lucky to have such a beautiful day…we postponed from the day before, due to safety concerns from a windstorm, and were richly rewarded with these views.
Leah, Patrick, Craig, and Drea at the overlook
Leah, Patrick, Brook and Craig at the overlook
As always, I am a little melancholy coming down from the mountain, as the first thing I want to do is call Dad, and tell him about our adventure. I wish he could see me. I miss him.
Panorama from the top
Next up, we go to Rattlesnake Ridge! I look forward to our next adventure.