Sammamish and Issaquah, two neighboring towns in Washington state, have a deep history. From once untamed forests to becoming the home to Costco, these places are more than just suburbs; they are full of history and natural beauty waiting to be explored.
Sammamish and Issaquah have rich histories that reflect the evolution of suburban development in the region. Originally inhabited by the Coast Salish People, the area changed significantly during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries with the arrival of European settlers. Sammamish began as a rural community with lush forests and lakes, while Issaquah grew as a mining town, known for its coal mining industry. Over the decades, both towns transitioned into thriving suburban centers. The population then surged in the late twentieth century with the development of family friendly neighborhoods and parks and miles of hiking trails.
Sammamish, also known as the Sammamish Plateau, was known for its rich forests and isolated farmland. The plateau then became a location for suburban homes in the late twentieth century. Sitting approximately 500 to 600 feet above sea level, it provides scenic views of the surrounding areas, including the Cascade Mountains and Lake Sammamish.
The Duwamish and Snoqualmie tribes inhabited the region long before European settlers arrived. The tribes utilized the natural resources for fishing, hunting, and gathering, which also attracted the settlers in the nineteenth century to Sammamish for logging and agriculture. More than a century later, suburban growth began to increase rapidly in the 1980s due to Sammamish’s proximity to city tech hubs like Seattle and Redmond, leading to the incorporation of the city of Sammamish in 1999. Today, the plateau is recognized for its beautiful parks, trails, and strong sense of community.
If you’re wondering what Issaquah claims to fame beyond its scenic and beautiful mountains… think of a place full of snacks and goodies that both parents and kids love: Costco! The first ever Costco factory opened in 1983 in Seattle and revolutionized the retail industry with its unique concept of offering bulk products at low prices through a membership-based warehouse model. Costco’s “buy in bulk” concept quickly became popular, and now, the store has locations worldwide.
In 1993, it merged with Price Club, another leading warehouse chain, moved its headquarters to Issaquah the next year and by 1997, the company established the name Costco Wholesale Corporation. Costco’s low prices and high-quality goods have led to the development of a loyal customer base. Not to mention, its $1.50 hot dog and soda combo has remained a symbol of its commitment to value as well as treat to anyone who visits Costco.
One thing Sammamish and Issaquah have in common is their deep connection to nature. Both towns have worked hard to maintain their natural beauty, while also being on the edge of development and industrialization.
Issaquah is often called the “Trailhead City” because it’s the gateway to the Issaquah Alps, a collection of nearby forested mountains. This includes Cougar Mountain, Tiger Mountain, and Squak Mountain, which are all part of a vast network of protected lands. Trails on these mountains range from easy to challenging, attracting visitors that are both beginners and experienced hikers.
Lake Sammamish is a centerpiece for both Sammamish and Issaquah, providing scenic views and joyful memories for all those who visit it. Lake Sammamish State Park, located at the southern tip of the lake, offers 500 acres of sandy beaches, swimming areas, and boat launches. It’s the perfect spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, or enjoying a picnic with your family and friends!
Though both towns might seem like quiet suburban areas, their history and ongoing growth make them much more than that. From Native American roots to the transformation into vibrant communities, these towns have evolved while holding on to their natural beauty. So, the next time you’re hiking in the Issaquah Alps or grabbing food at Costco, take a moment to appreciate the stories and history all around you!
