Big Tree Ridge Trailhead

Newport Way NW, Issaquah, WA 98027

 

A Legacy of Conservation

Since its founding in 1979, the Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC) has worked to conserve the forests, trails, and open spaces of the Issaquah Alps. IATC played a key role in advocating for the creation of Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, established in the 1980s through community advocacy and the vision of founder Harvey Manning. Today, that legacy of community-driven conservation continues through IATC's partnership with King County Parks at Big Tree Ridge Trailhead.

 
 
 

Why Restore Big Tree Ridge Trailhead?

Located just outside downtown Issaquah, Big Tree Ridge Trailhead provides an important gateway to Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park and its extensive trail network. King County's investment in establishing the trailhead expanded public access to these treasured natural lands. In 2024, IATC partnered with King County Parks to extend that investment through community-led habitat restoration. Together, they are working to remove invasive plants, restore native vegetation, and improve forest health and wildlife habitat, ensuring this important gateway remains a welcoming and thriving natural space.

This project is made possible in part through grant sponsorship from King County Parks.

Source: King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks

Restoration in Action

Since launching the partnership, IATC volunteers have contributed hands-on stewardship through native tree planting, invasive plant removal, and site cleanup. In March 2025, just 11 volunteers planted 170 native trees in two hours, demonstrating the impact of community-powered conservation.

 

Upcoming Events

Healthy forests depend on community involvement. Join IATC and King County Parks to remove invasive plants, restore native habitat, and care for the natural places we all cherish.

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Private Restoration Event Inquiry

Interested in organizing a group restoration event? Learn about the requirements and submit an inquiry to partner with IATC.