History

A Refreshing Alternative

When Talus was conceived, its planners envisioned a place that would capture the ever-changing beauty of Puget Sound while still remaining close to conveniences and favorite destinations. Though it seemed a tall order, the search led to Seattle's east side, where the serenity of the Issaquah Alps inspired what would eventually be called an "urban mountain sanctuary".

Particulars to ponder:

• The region is dedicated to preserving the Issaquah Alps, setting aside a home for Talus' first inhabitants: the white-tailed deer, red-legged frog and the endangered pileated woodpecker.
• Pileated woodpecker sightings are especially meaningful since the city's name came from the Native American word, "Issaquah", which means "sound of the birds".
• Talus has become part of the largest urban "wild land" in the nation, spanning 20,000 acres across Cougar, Squak and Tiger Mountains.
• A decade was spent working with environmental groups and the City of Issaquah to create an ecologically sensitive plan.
• To protect the Gateway to the Issaquah Alps, only a fourth of Talus's 630 acres are open to human habitation.