Stimson Bullitt began to purchase land atop Squak Mountain back in the 1940's. At the time Squak Mountain provided a place of solitude from the business of Seattle.
Mr. Stimson purchased the land with the intent of building a vacation cabin on the mountain. An architect was hired and construction began. The cabin was completed in 1952 however, Mr. Stimson for various reasons would stay only two nights in the cabin. Years later vandals destroyed all but the fireplace.
In time, Mr. Stimson gave the property to his three children. When they reached adulthood he presented them with three options. First, they could keep the property and build houses for themselves, secondly they could list the property for sale or thirdly they could donate the property as a public park.1
In 1972, the Bullitt family deeded 590 acres to the state of Washington and Squak Mountain State Park was established. Mr. Bullitt later purchased and donated an additional 10 acres.
Today we can thank the Bullitt children for their vision and generosity as we enjoy this park and adjoining public lands that now surround it.
Come and enjoy this gift of the Bullitt family by hiking Squak mountain beginning near the hatchery in Issaquah. Perhaps at the cache you might catch a little of the solitude and sense of renewal that Mr. Bullitt sought when he originally purchased the land. Please allow several hours to complete this cache and come prepared with food water and seasonally appropriate clothing.
You can park your car near the first waypoint and then you'll be on your way. This is a low impact cache, however minimal off trail walking is necessary at the final. The waypoints are not meant to be difficult so look in obvious locations first.
1Simpson, D. A. and D.L. Langrock. Squak Mountain An Island in the Sky - A History and Trails Guide. Zebra Printing, Bellevue, WA. 2004.