Grace Lakes
Central CascadesBest Dec–Mar
Easy snowshoe to a ski-area lake basin at Stevens Pass.
About This Trail
Grace Lakes sits in a basin on the west side of Stevens Pass Ski Area, reached by following groomed cat tracks and service roads up about 500 feet of elevation. In winter, the approach is straightforward snowshoeing on packed snow, making this one of the most accessible backcountry lake destinations near the pass. The lakes themselves occupy a modest cirque that feels more like a workout destination than a scenic showpiece.
Summer access can be tricky. The Stevens Pass parking lots are sometimes gated outside of ski season, so check ahead before driving up. When the lots are open, the hike follows ski area roads through cleared terrain with expanding views of the surrounding peaks. The lakes sit at around 4,700 feet, surrounded by subalpine forest.
This trail works best as a winter snowshoe outing. The groomed or well-traveled surface means you rarely break trail, and the grade is steady without being punishing. Spikes and poles may be all you need when snow is consolidated.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Attempted to access this hike, but all the Stevens Pass parking lots were gated off.”
Last report: May 25, 2025
Scorecard
Popular winter snowshoe destination. Summer access is limited by parking lot availability.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Summer parking lot closures may block access
- Exposed ski area terrain in weather
Getting There
Park in Lot 4 at Stevens Pass Ski Area. Lots may be gated in summer, verify access before driving up.
Take Highway 2 to Stevens Pass. Park in Lot 4 of the ski area. Follow the groomed cat track west past the Mountaineer's cabin.
No early start needed. Snow conditions are usually best by mid-morning in winter.
Recent Reports
Attempted to access this hike, but all the Stevens Pass parking lots were gated off. Are they normally open in the summer, or is there a different place to park?
Did a loop up to the lakes. Trail up was fine for snowshoeing.
Grace - Not super scenic, but fully groomed and a nice warm up workout. Snow was super crunchy when we were there so we just needed spikes and poles, but more snow is coming.
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