Wandering the trails of Squak Mountain, you might be surprised to come around a corner and see a massive stone fireplace sitting at the top of a hill, but there it is. A testament to a family’s foresight and generosity to the public.
The fireplace stands like a quiet sentinel. This spot pulls hikers into Squak Mountain State Park year after year.
The Bullitt Fireplace stirs questions about Issaquah’s past.
The Bullitt Family Legacy
The tale starts with the Stimson family. CD Stimson, a lumber magnate originally from Michigan, had made a fortune in the lumber industry during the Klondike Gold Rush. Stimson Lumber is still in business to this day.
When CD Stimson died, Dorothy Stimson Bullitt, inherited her father’s empire. An empire she grew by managing her father’s buildings in Seattle, and by buying up TV Stations.
It was her son, Charles Stimson “Stim” Bullitt, who would invest in land on Squak Mountain. Stim loved the wild. That love for nature, coupled with the family’s wealth, drew him to Squak Mountain in the 1940s
Buying the Land and Building the Cabin
Stim picked up 590 acres on Squak Mountain in the 1940s. The spot sat near the city but felt worlds away. Heavy logging had stripped it bare, yet he saw its charm and potential.
He grabbed the land from local sellers. In 1952, he put up a simple two-room cabin. It became a quick getaway from city noise.
The cabin had basics like a cement floor. That big fireplace warmed it all. They hauled tons of stone, brick, and concrete up the old logging roads to build the structures.
Why Here? A Love for the Outdoors
Stim loved the outdoors and climbed mountains well into his later years. He wanted a close spot for family time in nature. The mountain gave peace, views, and fresh air.
His vision changed the bare land into a retreat. This choice ultimately saved the Issaquah Alps for everyone.
The Cabin’s Decline and Abandonment
As much as he loved the location, the family didn’t visit much. Stim’s wife skipped stays at the cabin because the roads were poor. The old logging roads served to get to the cabin, but access stayed tough, so she stayed home.
With the structure frequently vacant, vandals hit the cabin hard over time. They wrecked parts often. In late 1973, fire took most of it. Just the strong stone hearth remained.
Eventually, it became clear that something needed to be done with the property. Stim let his kids decide the land’s fate. Keep it, build on it, or give it away. They chose to donate.
In 1972, they handed the acres to Washington State. This started Squak Mountain State Park. It now covers over 1,500 acres.
Vandalism pushed the end faster. After the gift, damage grew. The family stepped back to keep the space wild.
Stories That Bring the Stones to Life
Hikers share moments at the fireplace. One found it on a spring walk and felt the past rush in. Its size surprised them.
Harriet Bullitt, Stim’s sister, cherished the place. She talked up the family’s gift in chats.
Another sat by the hearth in rain. Mossy rocks seemed to echo old laughs. These bits make the history feel close.
Bullitt Fireplace Hike Video
Hiking to the Bullitt Fireplace
The Bullitt Fireplace Trail leads straight to the spot. This 4-mile out-and-back path begins at Mountainside Drive in Issaquah. It climbs steadily through shady woods.
Expect a moderate challenge. You’ll gain 1,600 feet of elevation. Reach the fireplace after about 1.2 miles.
From there, push on to Central Peak for sweeping views. Link up with Debbie’s View for southern sights. Or create loops using the East Side Trail or Phil’s Creek for added adventure.
These routes highlight Squak Mountain’s best features.
What Time Of Year To Hike The Bullitt Fireplace Trail
You can hike this trail year-round. Park hours shift with the seasons. Summer opens at 6:30 AM until dusk, while winter starts at 8 AM.
In spring, watch for blooming wildflowers and fresh green ferns. Trails might get muddy after rains. Bring waterproof boots and trekking poles for stability.
Summer brings warmer days and denser crowds. Look out for berries along the path, but pack bug spray to fend off flies and mosquitoes. Carry extra water since there is no potable water on the mountain (thanks to previous mining activity.)
Fall offers colorful leaves and cooler temps. Spot mushrooms popping up in the damp soil. Layer your clothing and grab a light jacket for changing weather.
Winter hikes feel peaceful with fewer people. Expect possible snow or ice on higher sections. Slip on microspikes for traction and wear warm layers to stay cozy.
Always pack the Ten Essentials. Include rain gear, extra food, and a map. Not all phones will have reception on the mountain, so be sure to bring your “oh shit” button.
Check recent trail reports for conditions before you go.
Why Visit Now?
This fireplace blends history with hiking excitement.
Go explore the Bullitt legacy. Share your tales in the comments. Leave no trace to honor the land.
