Tiger Summit Trailhead Officially Opens as DNR Celebrates Completion of Work That Increases Accessibility

The landmark project increases access to the trail system for different user groups.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has fully reopened the Tiger Mountain Summit Trailhead following the issuance of a Final Certificate of Occupancy from King County. Closure to expand the parking lot and increase accessibility began in June 2025, and the trailhead was reopened to the public in March 2026 with a temporary certificate of occupancy while work was finalized.

The previous parking lot was built more than 30 years ago and was no longer suitable for the increased popularity of the recreation site and growing population in the area. Renovations included expansion of the lot to allow space for about 170 vehicles. The expansion makes the area more accessible for equestrian and mountain bike users, hikers, and includes ADA parking.

"I couldn't be more excited to welcome everyone to the new and improved Tiger Summit Trailhead which shows that we can increase accessibility and ensure the outdoors are open to everyone," said Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove. "This gorgeous new trailhead not only increases access to recreation, but it also creates opportunities to get outside for more people across the state. I look forward to seeing more families enjoying Washington and DNR's great outdoors just a short distance from Seattle."

"For years, Tiger Mountain has been more than just a local or regional destination; it's a trail system that has helped put the Pacific Northwest on a mountain biker's nationwide 'Must Visit' list," said Eddie Espinosa, Executive Director at the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. "We're so grateful that we have a parking lot that can accommodate the increased use, not just from riders, but also for hikers and equestrians. Thank you DNR!"

"Back Country Horsemen of WA (BCHW), Tahoma Chapter would like to thank DNR and acknowledge the work and thought that went into this project," said Kathy Young, Backcountry Horsemen of Washington Public Lands Chair. "Many hands were involved as the project came to fruition. We appreciate the attention that was given to all aspects. DNR carefully considered the trailhead plans, the materials and infrastructure, and how those would impact and enhance the experience for equestrians."

To improve user experience at the trailhead, DNR staff and contractors installed new pavement, a new vault toilet, stormwater improvements, and created new parking spots - including multiple spots for horse-trailers and a horse-mounting ramp.

Timber harvested from construction operations was used by DNR's Large Wood Supply Initiative to create in-stream woody debris as part of the Lake Sammamish Issaquah Creek Restoration Project and improve habitat for Chinook and other salmon species. About 1,000 native tree seedlings were planted in the renovated trailhead during the winter of 2026 and a variety of native shrubs will be planted with volunteers this fall.

The renovation was also necessary due to upcoming Highway 18 construction executed by the Washington State Department of Transportation. The Highway 18 improvement project, which includes work on the entrance and exits at Tiger Summit, may eventually impact the nearby parking area in the highway right of way.

DNR invites recreators to visit the new and improved trailhead and to recreate responsibly on state-managed lands. Tiger Mountain State Forest provides over 55 miles of trails open to a variety of nonmotorized uses. A map of the trail system, including authorized use types for trails, is available here: https://dnr.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2026-03/tigersummit.pdf

Recreation opportunities on DNR-managed lands are funded from a variety of different sources. While state budgets have made cuts to the program in recent years, many projects were supported in years prior with grants and support from nonprofit partners.

Renovations at the Tiger Mountain Summit Trailhead were funded by the 2023-2025 State Capital Budget as well as grants from the Recreation & Conservation Office. DNR and Commissioner Upthegrove are actively seeking solutions to ensure that ongoing maintenance funding for sites like this is increased in the future.

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