Lanham Lake Snowshoe

Lanham Lake sits at 4,100 feet in the forest east of Stevens Pass, reached by a 1.6-mile snowshoe climb gaining 1,100 feet from the Nordic Center parking lot. The route starts behind the bench across from the top of the main ramp and climbs through dense forest alongside a creek. Colored trail markers (green and blue) guide the way, with the creek always on your left.

The climb is relentless for such a short distance. Steep pitches on packed or icy snow demand sharp snowshoe crampons and trekking poles. The trail crosses groomed Nordic ski trails partway up before re-entering forest for the final push to the lake. The lake itself sits in a quiet basin surrounded by snow-draped trees, a satisfying payoff for the grunt work.

Park free at the Stevens Pass Nordic Center lot, about 5 miles east of Stevens Pass on Highway 2. If you plan to stay past 4 PM, park outside the gate. The route sees moderate traffic on winter weekends, with parking competition from skiers heading to the pass. Start early in winter to beat the short daylight window. Do not walk on the frozen lake, as ice thickness is unpredictable.