The Issaquah Alps Trails Club, based in Issaquah, WA, has a rich history spanning over 40 years. The club's history is captured in the Alpiner Archive and through images captured by its members. The origins of the club can be traced back to 1976 when there were various trails in the area, mentioned in guide books published by the Mountaineers.

During this time, the parks on Cougar Mountain housed the actual Nike missile and radar stations, while Squak Mountain consisted of a 560-acre gift to the State of Washington. Tiger Mountain, on the other hand, was a mix of private and public lands that were being clear-cut rapidly. It was also in 1976 that Harvey Manning, a well-known hiking guide author, conservationist, and Cougar Mountain resident, coined the term Issaquah Alps for the foothills surrounding Issaquah.

Initially, the name was considered outrageous, but it quickly gained popularity through Harvey's writings in newspapers and hiking and conservation group newsletters. Today, the Issaquah Alps Trails Club continues to preserve, protect, and promote the Issaquah Alps. They offer a range of programs including hikes and events, and they actively advocate for the conservation of the natural environment.

To support their efforts, you can donate to the club and become part of their mission to explore and protect this captivating region