Chybinski Loop
Issaquah AlpsBest Year-round
The biggest loop on Squak Mountain, linking forested ridges with Debbie's View and a network of connecting trails.
About This Trail
The Chybinski Loop is the main circuit on Squak Mountain, covering the most ground you can get on this often-overlooked middle sibling of the Issaquah Alps. The lower portion follows pleasant, soft-tread trail through mixed forest, climbing steadily to Debbie's View where Rainier fills the southern horizon on clear days. The upper section traverses the mountain's spine before dropping back down, giving you a real sense of the park's full character in a single outing.
What makes this loop worth knowing is its flexibility. You can extend via the Bullitt Fireplace Trail, drop down to Coal Mine Trail for some mining history, or connect to the Central Peak and Perimeter Loop trails to string together a full day. The network of intersecting paths means you can cut it short or go long depending on your energy. Recent WTA trail work has improved drainage and tread on several sections, though expect mud after rain, especially on the lower stretches.
Start from the Red Town or Bullitt Fireplace trailheads off Highway 900. The Sierra Court access in Issaquah also works and tends to be less busy. This is a proper workout for the Eastside, with 640 meters of gain spread across rolling terrain that never lets up for long but never gets truly steep either. It is the kind of trail that local regulars build their weekday fitness on.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Coming into Issaquah from the west, we could see that the trees above about 1,500ft had a dusting of snow/hail from yesterday's spring storm.”
Last report: Apr 16, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Muddy conditions after rain, especially on lower trail
- Exposed root wads near Margaret's Way junction
Getting There
Multiple access points. The lot off Highway 900 (follow the blue Cougar Mountain Recreation sign from I-90 exit 15) is the main option. Sierra Court in Issaquah and the Bullitt Fireplace Trailhead on Mountainside Drive SW are alternatives. All free, no pass required.
From the Highway 900 trailhead, head up the Chybinski Trail directly. The lower portion climbs steadily through forest to Debbie's View, then continues along the ridge. Many junction options let you customize the loop. Counter-clockwise gives you the steeper climb early.
Allow 3 to 4 hours for the full loop at a moderate pace. Morning starts get you the quietest trails and the best chance of clearing for Debbie's View.
Recent Reports
Coming into Issaquah from the west, we could see that the trees above about 1,500ft had a dusting of snow/hail from yesterday's spring storm. It was hard to make out as the clouds swirled amongst the Alps.
I love seeing all the bright green early spring plants coming up in the understory. The big leaf maples are full of flowers now and have a nice lime green appearance.
I started off at the Bullitt Fireplace Trailhead and decided to try the coal mine trail to the Chybinski Loop and back to the Bullitt access trail. It was about 7.
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