Winter in Washington Means a Whole New Set of Adventures

Except every year I try to go on a good snowshoeing adventure disaster has struck. One year our old van careened off the road, the next year we drove for hours to find mediocre snow and last year, well last year I didn't even try. 

This year Snow Lake was a success. Beautiful open views, maintained yet adventurous trails and most of all (at least for us) no disaster. 

GETTING THERE - Head east out of Seattle on I-90 to Snoqualmie pass, take exit 52, turn left (heading north) under the freeway. Drive pass Alpental Ski Area and park in the last parking lot. The trail head is at the far right corner of the parking lot.

ADVENTURE PREP - "Be Prepared, be Prepared". When snowshoeing in the winter, ALWAYS check the the avalanche conditions. The Northwest Avalanche Center provides amazing condition updates and is the good to site to check for avalanche warnings. Also even if it is a warm clear day, make sure to pack adequate cold gear, you never know how the conditions will change.

ADVENTURE TIME - After getting to the trail head follow the broad ski/snowshoeing path, after 1/2 a mile the trail will narrow to a single path. From there the path continues quite gradually, after passing source lake the trail steepens, climb up to the ridge line. From the ridge you have the option to continue down to Snow Lake or soak in the views and head on back. Regardless, the hike is never that arduous and the gorgeous views are well worth the energy.

FOOD! - No hiking or snowshoeing trip is complete without a good snack. Make sure to pack plenty of cookies, orange slices and whatever else floats your boat. Oh maybe a good cup of coffee!

FAMILY, FRIENDS, FOOD - Regardless of where you go, winter is such a great time to get out and about with close friends a family. My personal vote, head out to Snoqualmie, put on some snowshoes and make your way up to Snow Lake!