Snowshoeing at Snoqualmie Pass: A Winter Wonderland Awaits

As winter's embrace transforms the Pacific Northwest, Snoqualmie Pass emerges as a haven for snowshoe enthusiasts. Located just 50 miles east of Seattle, this alpine corridor offers a variety of trails catering to all skill levels, each providing a unique journey through serene snow-covered landscapes.

Trail Highlights

Gold Creek Pond Trail

Distance: 1.2-mile loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

Ideal for beginners and families, this flat trail meanders around a picturesque mountain pond, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Its accessibility and beauty make it a popular choice for those new to snowshoeing.

Palouse to Cascades Trail – Lake Keechelus Segment

Distance: 4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Difficulty: Easy

This segment provides a gentle trek along the shores of Lake Keechelus, making it suitable for all ages. The expansive lake views against the backdrop of snow-dusted evergreens create a tranquil setting.

Nordic Pass Trail

Distance: 8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Nordic Pass Trail navigates through dense forests and open slopes, requiring good navigation skills and mountain awareness.

Getting There

From Seattle, take I-90 East to Exit 52 (West Summit). For Gold Creek Pond, continue on SR 906 and follow signs to the Gold Creek Sno-Park. For the Palouse to Cascades Trail, proceed to the Hyak Sno-Park. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving conditions, and check road statuses before departure.

Essential Information

Permits: A Washington State Sno-Park Permit is required for parking at designated Sno-Parks. Some areas may also require a Special Groomed Trails Permit.
Safety: Always check avalanche conditions and trail reports before heading out. Carry the 10 essentials, including extra layers, food, and water. Snowshoes with built-in crampons are recommended for traction.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-December through March offers the best snow coverage. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.

Nearby Attractions

After snowshoeing, warm up with a visit to Summit West or enjoy a cozy meal at one of the lodges in Snoqualmie Pass. For those with extra energy, consider tubing at the Summit Tubing Center, just a short drive away.

Whether you're a seasoned snowshoer or lacing up for the first time, Snoqualmie Pass delivers a quintessential winter adventure.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Robert Alberg2 years ago

I like to photograph the lakes, rivers, and waterfalls in Snoqualmie.Pass.

Vijaya Shinde5 years ago

Snowy trees and beautiful wooden cabins. Soak up the beauty of nature.

M Duncana week ago

Why doesn’t Google add mountain pass elevations to their maps?????? It would be very helpful to know pass elevations when traveling in unfamiliar areas.

R. Scherera month ago

This is one amazing mountain pass. The beauty of these mountains and the scenery keep me coming back to explore and see nature up close and personal. Lake Keechelus is spectacular, and the views from the different turnouts give you some amazing photo ops. Or, take a hike up the mountain and get a birds eye view from above. Looking up at Snoqualmie Mtn and towering, Guye Peak will make your neck hurt. There are many areas to explore from this point. Try some of the trails, head up to the ski resort, or go hunting for one of the hidden gems tucked in these rugged and majestic mountains, such as Mirror Lake or Annette Lake. As always, leave no trace, leave it better than you found it, and enjoy 😉.

Limitless2 years ago

Beautiful and scary at the same time, because of many idiots who kept cutting us off when I was going at 35mph in the snow storm, because the sign literally tells everyone to do so. We've seen so many accidents today. Some cars look like they went way too fast. In general, it's a gorgeous area regardless of what time of the year it is.