Snowshoeing the Scenic Skyline Lake Trail in Washington State

By Samantha Panzera | March 28, 2023 |

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Looking for an easy snowshoeing destination with gorgeous views? Check out the Skyline Lake Trail in Washington State. This short yet steep hike has stunning mountain peaks and snow-covered boulder fields leading to a frozen lake. This is a great place to spend a fun-filled day in the mountains.

Quick Facts:

Location: Central Cascades -- Stevens Pass - West

Length: 2.5 miles, roundtrip

Elevation gain: 1100 ft.

Highest point: 5100 ft.

Parking pass/entry fee: None

Trail type: There-and-back

Are pets allowed: Yes, on leash

For the latest trail conditions, you can call the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Skykomish Ranger District at (360) 677-2414

See the latest weather forecast

Get the latest avalanche forecast at the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center website: www.nwac.noaa.gov/ or call their Avalanche Information Hotline at 206-526-6677

The trail up to Skyline Lake has a nice gradual incline with some easy switchbacks gaining around 1100 feet of elevation in about a mile and a half. This popular snowshoeing site has relatively low avalanche danger if you stick to the main trail, making this winter hike a great beginner-friendly snowshoe destination.

You start the trail by going past some cute A-frame cabins, past some powerlines, and into the forest. The trail begins to gradually incline upwards and you pass by some giant boulders where the snow piles, giving this hike a unique out-of-this-world feel.

Next, the trail opens up to spectacular views of the Stevens Pass Ski Resort with Big Chief and Cowboy Mountain looming above. While taking in the beautiful scenery, you continue along Heather Ridge (AKA Skyline Ridge) doing some wide back-and-forth switchbacks.

After passing the stunning views of Big Chief and Cowboy Mountain you will stumble upon a radio tower, which is located at an elevation of 4875 feet. After passing by the green radio tower, the slope becomes a gradual incline. After about a quarter mile, you will reach a Y junction at an elevation of 5050 ft.

At that Y junction, head left or northwest. This will take you to Skyline Lake. If you go to the right or northeast, in about a quarter mile, you would reach a second radio tower. If you accidentally reach the second radio tower, you can backtrack a little to reach the junction to head towards the lake.

After turning left from the road at the Y junction, you should shortly reach Skyline Lake sitting at an elevation of around 5100 ft. From the lake, you get some awesome views of Big Chief Mountain and Cowboy Mountain. There are also many other stunning peaks around. Also, note that it is best to stay off the lake and not risk falling through the ice.

Favorite After Hike Eats:

Route 2 Taproom in Monroe, WA.

This is my go-to spot after a big hike in the Stevens Pass area. Route 2 Taproom has a large rotating tap list of beer and amazing food. They even have a cool little keg icon next to their beer menu so you know if their keg is full, half empty, or almost empty. Their burgers are great and they have an absolutely delicious Philly Cheesesteak and Prime Rib Dip.

Watch Our Route

Co-ordinates: 47.7472, -121.0882

Directions:

Getting to the Trailhead

Head to Stevens Pass on US Highway 2. A little east of Stevens Pass, there is their northern parking lot to the left of the ski resort. Park here. There are some cute A-Frame cabins visible from the large parking lot and electric car charging stations. Try and arrive early. Stevens Pass parking fills up quickly.

For the latest trail conditions, you can call the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Skykomish Ranger District at (360) 677-2414

See the latest weather forecast

Get the latest avalanche forecast at the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center website: www.nwac.noaa.gov/ or call their Avalanche Information Hotline at 206-526-6677

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