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Renton, Washington, United States

Wilderness Peak Trail

Part of the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park.

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Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.4 miles / 0.6 km
Duration: 1 hour or less
Family Friendly • Dog Friendly
 
Overview: This is the highest point within the Cougar Mountain Park. To get here you can take either the Wilderness Creek Trail or the Wilderness Cliffs Trail. The hike up to this point can be a challenge where you will encounter a steep climb and at times, rocky terrain. The final stretch to the peak is a gentle short climb where you can rest and relax.

On your way up towards the peak you will be surrounded by giant ferns. The trail is shady, provided by the large Douglas fir trees over head. After your short hike down this trail you will come to a small clearing and a large wooden bench. The peak on this mountain does not afford you a view as the top is covered in a dense forest. Take a seat on the giant wooden chair and relax, reflect on your accomplishment of making it to the peak. Before heading back down the mountain take a minute to sign the log book located across from the wooden chair, showing that you made it to the top.


Tips: How to get here:

From I-90, take exit 15 and head south on Highway 900 for 3.3 miles. The trailhead marker will be on your right, see guide photo, there will be an asphalt driveway leading uphill and to the right. The parking area will hold about 15 cars but rarely is full. There is an additional parking area 100 meters east, it is a small dirt pullout that can fit 2-3 cars and gives you direct access to the trail.

Connecting Trails:

Wilderness Cliffs Trail
Wilderness Creek Trail
Shy Bear Trail

Park Hours:

8:00AM - Dusk open year around

Amenities:
-A single portable restroom is located at the paved parking area.
-No water sources are available.
-Supplies can be picked up in Issaquah off of I-90.

Points of Interest

Junction
map

Trailhead

This is the start to the Wilderness Peak Trail from the Shy Bear Pass. This area can be confusing as several trails intersect in the area. Stay north and follow the signs, the trail are a short 5 minutes to the top.
map

Giant Ferns

On your way up to the peak you will be surrounded by giant ferns. The trail is set in a small ravine adding to the sense of being dwarfed by the surrounding ferns.
Junction
map

Trailhead Marker to the Peak

After your hike up the steep incline to this point, you will be rewarded with a short easy stroll up to the peak of the mountain. In just 100 meters your will reach the summit.

This is also the junction point for your return trip. You can either hike down Wilderness Cliffs Trial or Wilderness Creek Trail; both paths will lead you back down the mountain.
Landmark
map

A Place to Rest

At the top of Wilderness Peak you will find a giant wooden seat to rest on. This peak does not offer any views as it is covered by large Douglas fir trees.

Once you have taken your pictures and rested up, don't forget to sign the log book to show that you have made it the pinnacle. There are several log books located on the tree across from the wooden bench.
Pictures in this guide taken by: gbhoskins

Wilderness Peak Trail Trail Map


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About the Author

gbhoskins
gbhoskins
25 guides
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Just moved back to the Pacific Northwest and love exploring new trails.

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