Hike of the Week: Kendall Lakes

A hiker enjoys a sunny winter's day snow shoe to the Kendall Lakes

Kendall Lakes

No lift lines at this Snoqualmie Pass winter wonderland





by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin

December 30, 2005

Quick Facts
Location: Snoqualmie Pass, Wenatchee National Forest
Land Agencies: National Forest Service
Roundtrip: 9.0 miles
Elevation gain: 1,700 feet
Access: Gold Creek Sno-Park just off of exit 54 on I-90 two miles east of Snoqualmie Pass (55 miles from Seattle).
Green Trails Map: Snoqualmie Pass, WA- No. 207
Special Note: Sno-Park Pass required


Snoqualmie Pass is synonymous with winter recreation. Home to a sprawling downhill ski area and a well-developed cross-country ski center, the “Pass” is right on I-90, easily accessible for snow-craving Seattleites. And just beyond the groomed terrain that hosts the shredders and schussers, are thousands of acres of snow-blanketed slopes ready to be imprinted with snowshoe tracks.
From the large Gold Creek Sno-Park (parking for 200), just to the east of the all of the skiing commotion, you’ll find several fine snowshoe routes radiating into the backcountry. However, you won’t be alone here as you suit up for your winter wonderland romp. From beginners flopping around nearby Mardee Lake to winter backpackers preparing for an expedition up Gold Creek Valley deep within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, this place is teeming with snowshoers.
The majority of them will be heading off to the Kendall Peak Lakes, a set of three little tarns perched within a cirque 1,000 feet below Kendall Peak. The lakes sit at an elevation of 4,500 feet, but with a 4.5 mile approach and 1,700 feet of elevation gain, they are easily attainable. By way of an old logging road the route is pretty straightforward. Views of the surrounding Snoqualmie Peaks greet you almost immediately and they only get better as you gain elevation. The final ½ mile is via trail through old-growth forest.
The lakes are tucked in a quiet basin and feel miles away from the busy highway corridor. The first two offer a peaceful retreat but stay clear of the third one due to avalanche potential.

Have a Happy and Prosperous 2006 and if you’re interested in doing more snowshoeing-check out Winter Trails Day on January 7th at the Mountaineers Snoqualmie Lodge. Visit: http://www.wintertrails.org/ for more information.