Is the Sycamore Creek bridge replacement affecting trail access?

Yes, the bridge replacement work began on October 21 and is expected to cause trail closures for a couple of months. As of [October 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-21.040859564671), a closure notice was posted starting on October 19. However, no work was observed on October 20, so the impact of the closure may vary day-to-day.

What is the current condition of the East Ridge Trail itself?

The trail is in good condition and has been nicely brushed out, especially as you approach the intersection with the East Side trail. As of [October 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-19.023229847725), occasional blowdowns were present but easy to navigate, and some sections were narrow and brushy with tall grasses, though always easy to follow. There were no significant obstacles reported as of October 20.

Are there any significant crowds expected on the trail?

Recent reports suggest that solitude is common on these trails. On [October 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-19.023229847725), the reporter spent most of their hike in solitude and saw only a handful of people. On [October 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-05.131621820310), the hiker saw no other hikers.

What is the current status of bugs and other annoyances?

Bugs were not a significant issue as of October 20, with no bugs reported. As of [October 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-05.131621820310), bugs were not too bad. No issues with bugs were noted in any of the recent reports.

East Ridge Trail

Issaquah Alps

updated 3 weeks ago

The East Ridge Trail is generally in good condition with minimal obstacles reported as of October 18. Much of the recent trail maintenance has been completed, opening up new views and making the trails superb for hiking. However, there is upcoming bridge replacement work planned near the Sycamore Access Trailhead. This work is scheduled to begin on October 21 and is expected to last for a couple of months, potentially causing trail closures during that period. October 20 indicates that this closure started on October 19, and no workers were present that day, suggesting that closures might not be continuous. Fall colors are present with maples showing yellow, and various mushrooms and late-blooming flowers can be found. The roads to the trailheads are suitable for all vehicles, and bugs are not a significant issue.

Generated from 16 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about East Ridge Trail

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 3 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

Yes, the bridge replacement work began on October 21 and is expected to cause trail closures for a couple of months. As of October 20, a closure notice was posted starting on October 19. However, no work was observed on October 20, so the impact of the closure may vary day-to-day.