Grand Ridge Mining History Hike

Saturday, October 17
10:00am to 12:30pm at the East Sunset Trailhead

Order tickets via Eventbrite.

The last mine history hike of the season will treat participants to some new experiences that haven’t been available for some time. Have you ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of Issaquah’s earliest miners? On October 17th, not only will you have the chance to do so, but you’ll be able to explore the vestiges of Issaquah’s longest-lasting coal mining operation, which began in 1888.

The three-mile adventure will be well worth the wear on your shoes. Thanks to recent trail and site maintenance by Issaquah Parks and Recreation and some outstanding volunteers, you’ll be able explore the daily commute of miners who worked in the dangerous depths below Grand Ridge. And for the first time in years, you’ll be able to view the foundations of the mining structures and see a tunnel entrance.

Issaquah’s coal miners typically worked ten-hour days for low pay in dangerous and uncomfortable conditions. Comparatively, this hike will be a walk in the park. Literally. Issaquah History Museum’s Doug Bristol will lead you from downtown Issaquah to the mine site through an historically significant section of the county’s 1300 acre Grand Ridge Park. Entertained by amazing and amusing tales, you will walk along the old rail bed of the North Bend branch of the Northern Pacific Railroad to a spur built specifically to serve the mine. The mine site itself is one of the best preserved in Issaquah, and the newly uncovered vistas will afford you an opportunity to imagine the clanking of metal, the shouting of men, dynamite explosions, the clatter of train wheels, and the crash of rock as it fell into railroad cars.

Have we tempted you? It is easy to get your tickets with Eventbrite. Tickets are $7.50 for general admission or $5 for members. You will meet with other participants at the East Sunset Trailhead for a moderately easy hike on well-developed gravel and dirt trails. The walk will be held rain or shine. Bring water and snacks, and wear clothing and footwear appropriate to the weather and trail conditions. Long pants are strongly recommended. We love dogs, but this particular hike is for people only. Please leave your canine friends at home.

To help ensure that the Grand Ridge Hike is safe and enjoyable for all, participation is limited to a maximum of 20 guests. All participants must register through Eventbrite. No “add-on” guests or children under 10 years of age can be accommodated on this hike. All persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For more information, contact the Issaquah History Museums at 425-392-3500 or info@issaquahhistory.org.

This program is made possible by funding from 4Culture.