Quick Link
Issaquah AlpsBest Year-round
A gentle half-mile connector on East Tiger that stitches together routes toward the summit.
About This Trail
Quick Link does exactly what the name suggests. It provides a short, gentle contour across an East Tiger Mountain slope, connecting the broader network of trails that wind through this DNR-managed working forest. At half a mile with modest elevation change, it is a transition piece rather than a destination.
Hikers headed for East Tiger summit often pass through here, linking up with the Connector Trail and other segments that climb to the high point at 2,657 feet. Recent trip reports note that East Tiger lacks dedicated hiker-only summit routes, so combining Quick Link with climbing bike trails (which run one-way uphill for bikes, both directions for hikers) is the standard approach. A GPS app helps sort out the many junctions.
The forest is typical East Tiger: dense second growth, quiet, and often misty at elevation. Fall brings decent foliage color. A restroom is available at the Tiger Summit Trailhead, which serves as the starting point for most routes through this area.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Began my hike from the upper parking lot off Highway 18 at Tiger Summit for trails near East Tiger Mtn.”
Last report: Apr 8, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Shared with mountain bikers (one-way bike traffic uphill)
- Many junctions; GPS or trail map recommended
Getting There
Tiger Summit Trailhead off Highway 18. From I-90 Exit 25, south 4.2 miles, right into the wide pullout, then 0.3 miles on gravel. Discover Pass required. Restroom available.
From Tiger Summit Trailhead, take the Connector Trail to access the East Tiger network. Quick Link sits mid-system, connecting to access roads 4000 and 5500 and nearby trails. Best used as part of a longer route, not a standalone hike.
No special timing. Most useful as part of a longer East Tiger loop or summit attempt.
Recent Reports
A great day on the trail. Seven of us set out from the Tiger Summit Trailhead just after 9:00 AM , heading up to the East Tiger summit in cool, crisp air — perfect for a rigorous climb, though layers were coming off before long.
As far as I can tell, East Tiger Mt has no hiker only dedicated trails to get to its summit. Highly recommend using something like Gaia GPS to help identify the climbing bike trails (one way going up).
Began my hike from the upper parking lot off Highway 18 at Tiger Summit for trails near East Tiger Mtn. Started on the Connector Trail, crossed the DNR 4000 Road, then onto the Northwest Timber Trail.
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