<h1 style="text-align: center;">Issaquah, <em>Seattle</em></h1>
<p>Issaquah, Washington is located in King County. Known for its rapidly growing suburb, Issaquah was ranked 2nd in the entire state of Washington and 89th in the nation. It was also ranked 6th out of 279 for population growth between the years of 2000 and 2005.</p>
<p>The name &ldquo;Issaquah&rdquo; comes from a Native American background and means &ldquo;the sound of birds&rdquo;, &ldquo;snake&rdquo;, or possibly &ldquo;little stream&rdquo;. While in Issaquah, you are likely to be surrounded by the Issaquah Alps, which includes several hiking trails along three mountains, Tiger Mountain, Cougar Mountain, and Squak Mountain.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For those interested in more cultural and historical activities, Issaquah offers Issaquah Salmon Days, which is a two-day festival held in October each year. The festival includes parades, along with historical ties to Issaquah&rsquo;s history. Many can also enjoy crafts, such as glass, wood, jewelry, paintings, pottery, and mental conventions.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Issaquah is surrounded by many varieties of wildlife. Several can be found at the Cougar Mountain Zoo, located just north of Cougar Mountain and west of Issaquah. Here you will find a large variety of endangered species, including birds and lemurs from across the globe. For many, the cougar named Nashi draws them to the zoo.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While in Issaquah, you may also want to visit the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery. It was built in 1936 by the Works Project Administration. Located just along the Issaquah Creek, the hatchery includes 4 million Chinook (King) and Coho (silver) salmon. The hatchery is run by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.</p>
<p>There is plently to do for those more interested in shopping. The Gilman village is a shopping center designed from old buildings that once inhabited the Issaquah community. Gilman Village, founded in 1972, was developed by Marvin and Ruth Mohl when they began preserving old farming, mining, and pioneer building around the Issaquah area. With over 40 shops located within Gilman Village, it has become a very well-known shopping area.</p>