A Shuttle Ride to the Trailhead

King County, Washington announced earlier this month that it is planning on continuing and potentially expanding the popular Trailhead Direct pilot program it launched in 2017. An article on the Washington Trails Association website explains:

Last summer, the pilot program developed as a joint effort, on behalf of King County Metro and King County Parks Department, to reduce vehicle congestion at popular trailheads in the Issaquah Alps. It was a step towards ensuring more equitable access and public transportation to trails as the demand for hiking opportunities around Seattle, Issaquah and North Bend continue to grow. 

About 900 hikers used the shuttle last year, or 40 per day that service was in operation. A survey of riders found positive results in parking congestion at trailheads, and demand for expanded service. In response to that demand, "the two King County agencies plan to optimize the bus routes and time schedules to accommodate more riders," according to the article. "They will also be discussing the possible expansion to North Bend and other urban centers."