Calling All Outdoor Explorers!—Hiking and History at Coal Creek

If you want more from your membership than just indoor exercise, we encourage you to take advantage of the wealth of surrounding hiking and running trails at your Coal Creek Y. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just seeking a family-friendly afternoon stroll, here are three hikes we recommend:

Coal Creek Trail

Accessible year-round, dog-friendly, and at a distance of 2.8 miles, this trail would make the perfect weekend activity. You’ll get a great workout while exploring the Pacific Northwest’s rich coal mining history.

Coal Creek Falls

Part of the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildlife Park, you’ll want to have your camera handy from end to end for this picturesque trail. If you can catch it on a winter morning, the sunlight streaming through the canopy of trees is a sight to behold. The trail also passes along some deep and eerie cave holes to add to the sense of adventure. At the end of trail, you’re rewarded with the gorgeous 28-foot Coal Creek Falls.

Big Tree Ridge

The Big Tree Trail is an accessible, well-maintained trail with few steep grades that’s perfect for new hikers. When it’s clear you’ll enjoy views of the snowy Cascades year-round. In winter, Squak & Tiger Mountains loom out of mists and low-hanging clouds, giving the hike a mystical atmosphere. The trail connects with other great trails inside and out of Cougar Mountain Regional Park.

Happy hiking!