East Fork Foss River Snowshoe
Central CascadesBest Dec–Apr
A long valley snowshoe through old-growth forest along the East Fork Foss River, with low avalanche risk up to the bridge turnaround.
About This Trail
This route follows the East Fork Foss River deep into its valley, starting with a road walk along snow-covered FR 68 before picking up the Necklace Valley Trail. Old-growth forest lines both sides, and the river appears and disappears through the trees as the trail works east. The terrain stays relatively flat by Cascades standards, making this one of the more accessible long-distance winter outings in the Stevens Pass corridor.
The bridge crossing at roughly mile 5 marks the natural turnaround point and the boundary between manageable and serious terrain. Up to the bridge, avalanche exposure stays low as the trail holds to the valley floor under heavy tree cover. Beyond the bridge, the route enters avalanche runout zones and requires full backcountry gear and assessment skills.
Road access starts at the plowed end of Foss River Road, just past the railroad trestle. Expect to add roughly a mile of road walking before reaching the actual trail. The valley stays quiet in winter, often seeing just a handful of visitors on any given day. Snowshoes are essential; the packed-out track from summer disappears under feet of snow.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“The road up is passable -- large potholes can be dodged, and while there's a large tree down, it only covers half the road; lots of people have made it around it.”
Last report: Jan 9, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- avalanche terrain beyond the bridge crossing at mile 5
- road conditions on Foss River Road can be rough with potholes and downed trees
- creek crossings may be obscured under snow
Getting There
Park at the plowed end of Foss River Road (FR 68), just past the railroad trestle, about 2.5 miles from Highway 2. Roadside parking only. Arrive early on weekends as space is limited.
From Highway 2 half a mile east of the Skykomish Ranger Station, head south on Foss River Road (FR 68) for 2.5 miles. Park where plowing ends, just past the railroad trestle. Walk the road until reaching the Necklace Valley trailhead, then follow the trail east along the river to the bridge turnaround.
The long mileage means an early start pays off, especially in the short daylight of midwinter. This is a full-day outing at snowshoe pace.
Recent Reports
With a considerable avalanche forecast, I decided to drive up Foss River Road and see how far I could get without getting stuck (been there, done that). Snow started in earnest after passing the trestle but I was able to make it to the junction with FR 6830 (Tonga Ridge) before turning around and parking about .
We have hiked this trail for 30+ years. No snow, lot's of flowers, big trees, view of Foss river off and on, at 4 miles views of big cliffs & Mtns.
Hiked this with two others, yesterday. started at 9:20.
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