There are movies and books about rooms with a view, views from bridges and million dollar views especially on clear days.

But what types of views exist to those who live, work or visit the Issaquah-Sammamish area?

There are many answers to that question depending if you are on the plateau or in the valley, on foot, biking or riding in an automobile.

One view that comes to mind is when driving south on Eastlake Sammamish Parkway, Mount Rainier rises above the freeway and is arched by Tiger and Squawk mountains. This striking view is also available as you proceed southwest on Fourth Avenue towards the Issaquah Post Office, where Mount Rainier is perceived to be resting on top of the Interstate-90 overpass. Interestingly, if heading in the opposite direction, these sights are visible in your rearview mirror. However, you do not have to be in a car to view Mount Rainier as it can be seen rising out of the east end of Lake Sammamish viewed from the dock at Sammamish Landing.

Do remember for safety’s sake, it is best to stop and get out of your car or off your bike or, if walking, pause and enjoy these or other spectacular sights.

Interestingly, from Talus one can see the break of dawn over the Highlands and from the Highlands observe the sun setting over Talus. But sunrise and sunset are only a few of the fantastic views from these two locations.

From the Talus community area, near Lingering Pine and Summerhill Ridge streets, there is a great view of Mount Baker. Also in that area, Shangri La Way has an unobstructed view of the Cascades and the Issaquah Highlands.

There are many great wonders to behold and photograph in our Sammamish and Issaquah area. However, depending upon the time of year, the growth of foliage certainly can cause obstructions or allow for only fleeting glimpses. Downtown Issaquah does not have as many views of Mount Rainier as of it once did. But from certain locations, there are views of the hang gliders off Poo Poo Point on Tiger Mountain.

The Issaquah Highlands offers many panoramic observations, including Seattle, Bellevue, Mount Baker and glimpses of some of the Issaquah Alps — Grand Ridge, Tiger, Squawk and Cougar mountains. When in the Highlands, a stop at Central Park unfolds a view of the Seattle skyline with the Olympics in the background.

Mount Baker is also on view traveling north on 228th Street near the Sammamish City Commons. A stop at Sammamish City Hall plaza provides an enjoyable view of Seattle’s skyline, including the Space Needle.

Last, but not least, when traveling down Black Nugget Road to Issaquah, there again are glimpses of Squawk and Cougar mountains as well as the Talus area. These are just a few of the priceless scenic wonders that the Issaquah and Sammamish areas have to appreciate and remember.

Sammamish resident Larry Crandall is a retired educator who currently serves on the city’s Planning Commission.