Winter has settled over the Cascades, blanketing the trails around Seattle in a pristine layer of snow. If you're looking to trade your hiking boots for snowshoes and explore a quieter side of the mountains, you're in luck. We've gathered intel on some of the best snowshoeing spots within easy reach of the city.
Snoqualmie Region
This region offers a fantastic variety of snowshoeing experiences, from accessible lake loops to more challenging mountain ascents.
- Kendall Peak Lakes Snowshoe: This is a classic for a reason, offering a gradual climb through lovely subalpine terrain to a series of picturesque lakes. Reports from March 21st noted the snow was soft and suited for snowshoes, while a March 9th update mentioned about 6 inches of snow, suggesting snowshoes might not have been strictly necessary but microspikes would be useful.
- Gold Creek Pond Snowshoe: Ideal for families or those seeking a less strenuous outing, this short, flat loop circles a beautiful pond. A report from March 14th indicated Lake Mardee Road was busy, while a January 14th update found the forest road near the trailhead had crunchy snow but was otherwise mostly clear. Note: A separate listing for Gold Creek Pond indicates it's currently a construction zone and closed as of June 2, 2026, so check current status before heading out.
- Granite Mountain: For those seeking a more demanding snowshoe, Granite Mountain offers a steep climb with rewarding summit views. A March 31st report described an ascent via the summer trail to the pond and then an alternate route to the summit. However, be aware that the avalanche chute on the summer trail can be dangerous in winter, as noted in a January 16th report, though conditions were negligible on that date.
- Snow Lake: This popular destination provides a beautiful snowshoe to a stunning alpine lake. A late report from May 2nd indicates the trail is still being explored for snow, so conditions can vary greatly depending on elevation and recent snowfall. An earlier report from February 8th mentioned stable weather and promising avalanche forecasts, ideal for a mountain hike.
- Franklin Falls - Winter: A relatively easy and accessible trail that leads to a frozen waterfall. Reports from February 26th and February 16th mention clear roads and intermittent snow, with good parking available with a Sno-Park pass. The road is snow-free until Denny Creek campground, with patches beyond.
- Annette Lake: This trail offers a steady climb through the forest to a lovely lake. A January 1st report highlighted that the road to the trailhead was in poor condition with huge potholes, and the parking lot was icy, emphasizing the need for a Sno-Park permit. A December 23rd report noted plenty of snow starting right at the parking lot.
- Amabilis Mountain Snowshoe: This route offers a good workout with potential for off-trail exploration. An April 10th report indicated the road was mostly snow-free to around 3000 feet, requiring microspikes beyond that and snowshoes for the final ascent off the road. A March 22nd report found melted-out patches initially, followed by continuous snow where microspikes were sufficient and even optional.
- Mount Washington: Offering a challenging climb with rewarding views, Mount Washington is a solid snowshoe option for experienced hikers. A February 26th report noted that snow begins about halfway up the mountain. Another report from the same date mentioned a landslide west of the Mt. Washington turn-off that closed the Olallie gravel trail, which could impact access.
Central Cascades
Venturing a bit further east into the Central Cascades opens up different landscapes and snowshoeing opportunities.
- Skyline Lake Snowshoe: This route, often accessed via the PCT winter route, leads to a scenic lake with options for further exploration. A March 30th report mentioned the first half-mile being packed and slick, recommending spikes, while a March 29th report detailed snowshoeing to the lake and beyond.
- Wenatchee Crest Snowshoe (Blewett Pass): Known for its expansive views, this area is great for longer snowshoe excursions. A March 2nd report described skiing four miles out and back on a sunny day with excellent views of surrounding peaks, though it noted concerningly limited snow cover. An earlier February 28th report mentioned a beautiful day with sunscreen being key, suggesting boots, gaiters, and a hiking pole were sufficient for that outing.
Planning Tips for Your Snowshoe Hike:
- Check Sno-Park Permits: Many trailheads in these areas require a Washington State Parks Sno-Park permit. Ensure you have the correct permit for the day of your visit.
- Road Conditions Vary: Access roads can be unpredictable in winter. Always check recent reports and consider your vehicle's capabilities, especially for higher elevation trailheads.
- Layer Up and Be Prepared: Even on sunny days, mountain weather can change quickly. Dress in layers, bring extra warm clothing, and be prepared for snowy and icy conditions underfoot.
- Avalanche Awareness: For higher elevation trails or those with steep slopes, always check the Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC) forecast before heading out.