In addition to its name, Snoqualmie Pass is a census-designated place in Washington. With a maximum elevation of 3022 feet/921 meters, the pass is a major road junction between Seattle and other points east. The city is named after the indigenous people known as Snoqualmie. Despite its size, this little community has something to offer for every visitor. Listed below are a few of the highlights of Snoqualmie Pass.
Gold Creek Pond is a wonderful family hike in Snoqualmie Pass. Located about 30 minutes from Seattle, Gold Creek Pond is a one-mile hike around a man-made lake. This hike is best done with kids and can last an entire afternoon. The trail is paved, making it easy for parents to bring strollers or baby carriers to the park. A great day out with your family will be filled with beautiful views.
The first two miles of the trail are straight, but the second and third miles are rocky switchbacks. From there, you can choose to hike to the lake or continue up to the ridge. If you plan to hike during the winter, you can opt to snowshoe the ridge. There is ample parking at the trailhead. The elevation gain on this trail is just 100 feet, making it ideal for toddlers. This hike also provides views of the Mount Mazama and Crater Lake.
While hiking in Snoqualmie Pass Washington, make sure to enjoy the scenery. Snow Lake Trail offers 6.6 miles of moderately difficult hiking trails. The trail is popular year-round for mountain biking, dog walking, birding, and snowshoeing. A waterfall and lake make the trail more beautiful. It is also a great place to take photos. There are many other trails to choose from in this beautiful area of Washington. Just make sure to keep in mind that many of the trails have some kind of steepness.
One of the most popular trails in Snoqualmie Pass is Franklin Falls. Located near Denny Creek Campground, this trail is a great way to enjoy a waterfall while hiking in the area. Although there is ample parking, it does fill up quickly on a nice day. The waterfalls are best enjoyed between July and October. However, the waterfall itself is beautiful all year-round. So if you are planning a hiking trip, make sure to bring sturdy footwear.
Whether you are hiking or biking, there are several ways to enjoy the scenic views. The Green River Trail runs nearly 20 miles through the industrial heart of the Green River Valley. It connects to nearby neighborhoods. The Cedar River Trail extends through Lake Washington. The Seattle Waterfront Pathway parallels the Alaskan Way and the Elliot Bay Trail. You may even find a horse. If you’re looking for a scenic bike path, make sure to check out the I-90 Trail.
As a general rule, start hiking during the warmer months of the year – mid-June or early July if you’re doing a SOBO hike. This way, you’ll be able to get into the country legally – the downside is that you’ll have to travel an extra few miles. But if you’re a female or LGBTQ+ hiker, you’re likely to experience discrimination on the trail.