History Mine Hike at Grand Ridge

Have you ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of  Issaquah’s earliest miners? On our Grand Ridge Mine Hike you will have the chance to explore the daily commute of miners who worked in Issaquah’s longest-lasting coal mining operation starting in 1888. The three-mile adventure will be well worth the wear on your shoes.

Issaquah’s coal miners typically worked ten-hour days for low pay in dangerous and uncomfortable conditions. Comparatively, this hike will be a walk in the park. Literally. IHM guide Bryan Thorn will lead you from downtown Issaquah to the mine site through an historically significant section of the county’s 1300 acre Grand Ridge Park. Entertained by amazing and amusing tales, you will walk along the old rail bed of the North Bend branch of the Northern Pacific Railroad to a spur built specifically to serve the mine. The mine site itself is one of the best preserved in Issaquah, and it will afford you an opportunity to imagine the clanking of metal, the shouting of men, dynamite explosions, the clatter of train wheels, and the crash of rock as it fell into railroad cars.

Have we tempted you? It is easy to get your tickets with Eventbrite. Tickets are $10.00 for general admission or $7.50 for members. You will meet with other participants at the East Sunset Trailhead for a moderately easy hike on well-developed gravel and dirt trails. The walk will be held rain or shine. Bring water and snacks, and wear appropriate hiking shoes. We love dogs, but this particular hike is for people only. Please leave your canine friends at home.

To help ensure that the Grand Ridge Hike is safe and enjoyable for all, participation is limited to a maximum of 20 guests. All participants must register through Eventbrite. No “add-on” guests or children under 10 years of age can be accommodated on this hike. All persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For more information, contact the Issaquah History Museums at 425-392-3500 or info@issaquahhistory.org.

This program is made possible by funding from 4Culture.