Licorice Fern Trail
Issaquah AlpsBest Year-round
An easy creekside walk to a tiered waterfall through some of the greenest, most fern-covered forest on Cougar Mountain.
About This Trail
Licorice Fern Trail lives up to its name. The route winds through a corridor of mossy alders, vine maple, and thick fern understory that stays green and lush year-round. The destination is Far Country Falls, a multitiered cascade that tumbles over moss-covered boulders and runs strongest after winter rains and atmospheric rivers. An optional overlook spur adds a viewpoint without much extra effort.
The trail starts on a wide gravel path and stays gentle, making it one of the most accessible routes on Cougar Mountain. The 61 meters of elevation gain barely registers. Built stairways help with the few elevation changes, and the tread is well-maintained thanks to regular WTA volunteer work parties. This is part of what locals call the largest "urban wildland" in the country, over 3,000 acres with 38 miles of trail, and Licorice Fern is one of the best introductions to it.
Park along 169th Ave SE near the hiker sign. The trailhead sits on the south side of Cougar Mountain, accessed from May Valley Road. At the first junction, stay on the gravel trail and ignore the paved path to the left. After about a mile, the trail crosses SE Licorice Way before reaching the Indian Trail junction. Groups of all sizes use this trail regularly and it handles the traffic well.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“A group of nine of us set off at 9 this morning to hike from the Licorice Fern TH to Far Country Falls and the Lookout.”
Last report: Apr 8, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazard
- Slippery stairways when wet
Getting There
Street parking along 169th Ave SE near the trailhead sign. Free, no pass required. The shoulder fits several cars. Not a formal lot, so be courteous to neighbors.
From the hiker sign on 169th Ave SE, follow the gravel trail (do not take the paved path to the left). The route is straightforward with good signage. After about a mile, cross SE Licorice Way and continue to Far Country Falls. The overlook spur branches off shortly before the falls.
Any time. The trail handles groups well. Waterfall is most impressive during and after rain events.
Recent Reports
Cool to see Mt Rainier from Cougar Mt. It’s not from a peak logged for timber like on Tiger Mt or from a bench sitting amongst trees like on Squak Mt.
A group of nine of us set off at 9 this morning to hike from the Licorice Fern TH to Far Country Falls and the Lookout. With a moving pace of 2.
The waterfalls are running with a strong flow during this atmospheric river. I started at the Licorice Fern Trailhead.
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