6 Fun Beginner Snowshoe Hikes in Washington
Winter in Washington can bring magnificent snow, but what if you are not a downhill skier? Have you tried snowshoeing? Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to get out into the snow, see gorgeous views, have some adventures and get some exercise!
We are going to cover a six beginner shoeshoe hikes to make you comfortable with the technique and these are even pretty kid friendly too! So, go buy, borrow or rent some snowshoes and let’s go!
But first, be sure to check out some tips for preparation with this article and this one from WTA.
Let’s jump into the Six Fun Beginner Snowshoe Hikes!
1. Nisqually Vista Trail at Paradise, Mount Rainier
This easy 1.0-mile loop can be accessed from the grand stone steps next to the Visitor Center or from the west end of the lower Paradise parking lot.
If it is a clear or partially clear day, you will have views of the Nisqually Glacier, viewpoints of the Nisqually River canyon and also Mount Rainier!
Be sure to have your National Park pass and know when the gate at Longmire will be closed for the night!
2. White Salmon Creek, Salmon Ridge Sno-Park
There are a few trails to choose from at this Sno-Park near Mount Baker. We enjoy heading out to the river and following the river looking for views of the surrounding mountains including Mount Shuksan.
The Nooksack River Valley is also a beautiful place to explore as the trails wind through the forests! As this is a Sno-Park, be sure to grab your pass here before you go!
3. White Salmon Road, Forest Service Road 3075
While not to be confused with snowshoe hike number 2, this hike is just below the Mount Baker Ski area and does not require any passes or permits. This is a 5.0-mile roundtrip hike with about 485 feet of elevation gain. You will be treated to multiple viewpoints of Mount Shuksan as you hike down the wide forest service roads. The final push up to the viewpoint is totally worth it! The grand viewpoint of Shuksan and the valley is breathtaking! This has a very small parking lot, so maybe have a plan B if you go on a very busy day.
4. Lake Wenatchee State Park, Lake Wenatchee Sno-Park
Though these trails do require a Sno-Park pass, you have 43 miles of non-motorized trails for snowshoeing! Twelve of those dedicated to just snowshoe trails! Take in the forest and views of the lake. Breathe in the scents of the Ponderosa Pine trees mixed with snow! You also have the option of being on the north side, the south side or both! They bring two different experiences and views for you! These trails are extremely kid friendly!
5. Wenatchee Crest, Blewett Pass Sno-Park
This 6.0 mile round trip hike with 400 feet of elevation gain is an absolute dream! If you are blessed with a clear day you will have views of Glacier Peak, sometimes of Mount Rainier, the Teanaway Mountains, the Stuart Range — all the way from Miller Peak to the Peshastin Creek Valley, Tronsen Ridge and Diamond Head. Just WOW! A Sno-Park permit is required here. There are two parking lots. One at the trailhead and a large one across the highway.
6. Methow Valley Trail Systems
Sun Mountain, Mazama, Methow Valley and Rendezvous all have multiple snowshoe trails to choose from. We checked out Patterson Lake and walked down along the lake and came back the same way. Ice fishermen were dotted along the lake hoping to catch a few! We had some amazing views, but be sure to get the Methow Trails snowshoe trail pass before you get to any trailhead.
Snowshoeing is so fun and it takes you places you cannot go by foot only! There are so many trails available all over the state! Washington Trail Association is a great tool to search for snowshoe trails near you. Go ahead and make some plans to head out this winter!
Which one of the 6 Fun Beginner Snowshoe Hikes in Washington are you going to try. first? Leave us a comment below.
