Snoqualmie Pass

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing on Denny Creek Road, is an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced snowshoers looking for an easy snow-covered escape near Snoqualmie Pass. As the road becomes blanketed in snow, it transforms into a serene trail perfect for exploring on snowshoes, winding through towering evergreen forests and following high above Denny Creek as it flows beneath a layer of ice and snow below. The only downside is that the road parallels Interstate 90, and hence, you will hear the constant buzz of the interstate throughout the duration of the hike. There is no parking at the trailhead, however you can park a short distance away along highway 906, east of the I-90 overpass.

Snowshoeing along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) through Commonwealth Basin at Snoqualmie Pass is a great winter time adventure. This route follows the PCT through snow-covered evergreen forests and then descends slights towards commonwealth creek offering a peaceful and secluded escape from the busy ski areas nearby. From here, there are a number of options. You can continue up the valley where you will eventually have stunning views of Red Mountain and Lundin Peak. Or follow the PCT, gradually climbing into the basin, where experienced snowshoers can venture further to explore deeper snowfields and untouched winter landscapes. Note, this will take you into avalanche terrain, consult the Northwest Avalanche Center for current warnings.

The Gold Creek trail follows a gentle, groomed snow-covered road to Gold Creek Pond, a scenic alpine lake surrounded by towering, snow-draped evergreens and rugged mountain peaks. On clear days, stunning views of Chikamin Peak and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness create a breathtaking backdrop. The wide, flat trail makes it an ideal choice for families and those new to snowshoeing, while more adventurous hikers can continue beyond the pond to explore deeper into the valley. This snowshoe is within the Gold Creek Sno-Park, and requires a Sno-Park permit. To reach the trailhead, take a right on Lake Mardee Road (this is the beginning of Gold Creek Sno-Park) and drive roughly a half mile, where you will see a trailhead sign and groomed trail on your left.

Source Lake is a typical destination, situated at the end of the Alpental Valley and surrounded by majestic peaks like Chair, Bryant and Hemlock. It makes a perfect turn around spot to grab lunch and watch backcountry skiers descend through powder. The trail starts in the upper Alpental parking lot, and you must proceed right along the trail when it splits, as the left / upper section is for skiers returning from the Alpental backcountry. As of 2025, parking anywhere at Alpental requires a parking pass. Note, the trail goes through avalanche terrain shortly after the start, and careful evaluation of avalanche danger should be considered before embarking along this trail.

Nestled among forested slopes and rugged mountain ridges, Kendall Peak Lakes are a trio of small alpine lakes that become a serene, snow-covered retreat in the winter. Along the route, snowshoers are treated to breathtaking viewpoints, often finding the expansive vistas just as rewarding as the lakes themselves. On a clear day, the distant horizon is lined with iconic peaks, including Rampart Ridge, Kendall Peak, Granite Mountain, Silver Peak, and even the towering Mount Rainier. Thanks to its gentle grade, and spectacular scenery, this snowshoe route is a popular winter destination. The path primarily follows a closed forest road, making navigation relatively straightforward. However, more experienced snowshoers confident in their route-finding skills may venture off the main trail to explore different routes toward the lakes—though it’s essential to remain aware of avalanche risks in the area. The adventure begins at the Gold Creek Sno-Park, where a Sno-Park permit is required for parking between December and March.

From Hyak Sno-Park, snowshoers can hop on the groomed Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail and head east along the flat trail, which used to be a railroad route, with views of Keechelus Lake and Gold Creek Valley. The Sno-Park has a groomed sledding hill, as well as bathrooms and is a popular spot for beginner groups who also want to sled. The Hyak Sno-Park requires a sno-park permit, as well as a special groomed trails permit.