What is the condition of the trail regarding overgrown sections and obstacles?

The trail is largely clear of major blowdowns, though one fallen tree requires ducking as of [September 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-15.140144778206). The western half of the loop is reported as quite overgrown, and the eastern half has significant nettles as of [August 19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-20.115412247074).

What is the status of nettles on the trail?

Nettles were a significant issue on the eastern half of the loop in [August 19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-20.115412247074), though they were not a problem on the western half at that time. Long pants are recommended to manage them.

Are there any notable viewpoints or features on the May Valley Loop?

The peak of Squak Mountain is a radio tower area with no good lookout spot, and the elevation sign may be missing due to past storm damage, according to a report from [September 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-15.140144778206). A noted waterfall was missed by one hiker who suspects it requires going off-trail to find, as of September 12.

What is the road and parking situation at the May Valley trailhead?

The road is suitable for all vehicles, with no reported issues as of [September 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-15.140144778206) and [August 19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-20.115412247074). The parking lot was nearly empty at 8:30 AM on a Sunday in late July, with few other hikers seen during the day, as of July 26.

May Valley Loop

Issaquah Alps

updated 1 week ago

The May Valley Loop is currently snow-free and generally in good condition, though nettles are present on the eastern half of the loop, making long pants advisable as of August 19. Some reports suggest the western half is also overgrown. While fallen trees have been cleared for the most part, one remains that might require ducking. The trail narrows significantly once it becomes the Bullitt Gorge Trail. The peak offers no notable views and may be missing its elevation sign due to past storm damage. The parking lot was uncrowded on a Sunday morning in late July, and bugs were scarce.

Generated from 44 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about May Valley Loop

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 1 week ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The trail is largely clear of major blowdowns, though one fallen tree requires ducking as of September 12. The western half of the loop is reported as quite overgrown, and the eastern half has significant nettles as of August 19.