Kendall Peak Lakes

The snowshoe and cross-country skiing trail leading to Kendall Peak Lakes is an enjoyable winter trip. Whether you are a first-time snowshoer or a seasoned pro, the route offers a gradual incline and views dominated by nearby peaks.

As a relatively easy drive from the Seattle metro area, Kendall Peak Lakes make for a perfect day trip.

From the Gold Creek Sno-Park, proceed up the left side (west) of the Gold Creek valley for a few hundred yards until you spot the remains of an old forest service road. Follow the twists and turns of the now-defunct road up the slope at a moderate incline. After a little more than a mile and a half, the route hooks sharply to the right. Continue to the right (or follow the wide spur road to the left) to head to Kendall Peak Lakes. At just over four miles, the trail approaches Coal Creek and follows it the rest of the way to the lakes' basin. Upon reaching the first of the lakes, celebrate and take in the views of Kendall Peak, Alta Mountain and Rampart Ridge - all within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area. It is highly recommended to end your journey here, as the upper lake basin area is prone to avalanches.

Getting there: From Seattle, head east on I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass to exit 54. Turn left and cross under the highway to reach the Gold Creek Sno-Park. You will need a Washington Snow-Park permit to park here.

Note: as always with winter backcountry travel, please check with the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center's website for the most recent avalanche and mountain weather forecasts.