West Tiger 3 is a 6-mile out-and-back trail in Tiger Mountain. It’s a moderate to challenging hike with sweeping views at the top.
West Tiger 3 trail overview
The following is an overview of West Tiger #3:
- Length: 6 miles, roundtrip
- Elevation gain: 2,100 feet
- Highest point: 2,525 feet
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
- Seasons: Year-round
- Pets allowed: Dogs on a leash
- Pass or entry fee: Discover Pass
- Other names: Tiger 3, T-3, WT3
- Trailhead coordinates: 47.5296, -121.9956
- Trailhead address: Parking lot, 26415 SE 79th St, Issaquah, WA 98027 (Highpoint Trailhead)
Table of Contents
Where to park
West Tiger 3 is one of several trails on Tiger Mountain. The starting point is Highpoint Trailhead.
You can park before the entrance or in the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) parking lot.
You’ll need a Discover Pass to use the parking lot.
If you don’t have one, you can park before the entrance for free.
There’s plenty of space, but it’s a half-mile walk to the trailhead.
Trailhead
Once you park your vehicle and are ready to hike, walk to the entrance.
You’ll find a sign showing the rules and different trails.
It’s helpful to take a picture of the route. You can use it during your hike to see where you are.
There are also two restrooms nearby. They’re not cleaned every day, so don’t expect them to be in pristine condition.
Trail
After viewing the trailhead sign, follow the path to get to the West Tiger 3 trail.
There are several other trails along the way, so follow the signs.
Bus Trail, West Tiger #3 Trail, and Tiger Mountain Trail are on the left. Swamp Trail and Puget Power Road are on the right.
Before the beginning of Tiger 3, there’s a bench. It’s an excellent place to ensure everything’s ready for the hike.
Tighten your shoes or boots, drink water, or stretch. Once you’re ready, take the path on the left to hike WT3.
Most of the trail is a steady incline with a few steep parts. It’s wide and well-maintained.
You’ll see plenty of tall trees, green ferns, and a few small streams along the trails.
Some parts are more rocky than others. If there was recent rain, you’ll encounter mud.
Viewpoint
You’ll see a logged area through the trees as you reach the summit. Walk ahead to stand on the summit.
While it’s sad to see the trees cut down, it opens up the views.
The area is large enough for several large groups. There are also a few rocks you can sit on and space for chairs.
It’s the perfect time to celebrate the hard-earned views with a snack or hydrate.
You can see the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Also, downtown Seattle and Bellevue are visible.
If it’s a clear day, you can also see Mount Rainier.
The most expansive views are on partly or fully sunny days.
If it’s cloudy, you won’t see far. But, that doesn’t take away from the beauty.
One of the best sights is the paragliders from Poo Poo Point. You can see them going over the mountains and the Issaquah area.
Wildlife at West Tiger 3
Tiger Mountain is home to many wildlife species. According to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, the following are the species you may encounter:
- Bear
- Cougar
- Bobcat
- Garter Snake
- Owls
- Deer
- Elk
- Owl
Conclusion
West Tiger 3 is an excellent trail for day hikes. It’s 6 miles round trip, and most of it is a steady incline. But, there are a few steep inclines.
The views at the top are vast and serene. The only drawback is the amount of logging there is.
Despite the logging, West Tiger 3 is worth the hike.
About David Em
David Em is the Founder and Managing Editor of PNW Together. He was born and raised in Seattle. David loves to hike, bike, and explore the Pacific Northwest.