On Oct. 17, Issaquah History Museums will offer a chance to walk in the footsteps of Issaquah’s earliest miners. But attendees will also be able to explore the vestiges of Issaquah’s longest-lasting coal mining operation, which started in 1888.

“We are going to make the last history hike of the season truly exciting,” said Doug Bristol, a volunteer docent and hike leader for Issaquah History Museums.

Bristol led a volunteer expedition to locate and identify the site’s historic features, and a crew of volunteers helped clear the foundations of the mining structures.

Bristol will lead participants from downtown Issaquah to the mine site through a historically significant section of Grand Ridge Park. There, participants will be able to explore the newly cleared foundations of the mining structure and see the locations of the mine shafts.

Throughout the trip, Bristol will entertain hikers with tales of Issaquah’s dark and dangerous mining past, evoking the sounds and sights of this important period in the region’s history.

Tickets are $7.50 for general admission or $5 for members of the Issaquah History Museums and are available from Eventbrite (http://tinyurl.com/po7knas). Advance registration is required.

To help ensure that the Grand Ridge Hike is safe and enjoyable for all, participation is limited to a maximum of 20 guests. No “add-on” guests or children under 10 years of age can be accommodated on this hike. All persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Hikers are asked to leave their canine friends at home.

Hikers will meet at the East Sunset Trailhead for a moderately easy hike on well-developed gravel and dirt trails. The walk will be held rain or shine. Everyone should bring water and snacks, and wear suitable shoes.

To learn more, contact the Issaquah History Museums at info@issaquahhistory.org or call 425-392-3500.