Oxbow Loop Trail
Snoqualmie RegionBest Apr–Oct
A gentle loop around a glacially-formed oxbow lake in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie valley, with river views and old-growth canopy.
About This Trail
The Oxbow Loop Trail circles a lake that formed roughly 19,000 years ago when the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River shifted course and left behind this quiet backwater. The loop is short and nearly flat, following an old logging road on the descent before picking up a purpose-built trail that threads through Douglas-fir, hemlock, and cedar. A viewing platform at the lake outlet is the scenic highlight, and bluff-top viewpoints along the way offer looks at Russian Butte and the surrounding Cascade foothills.
This is a trail that rewards patience more than pace. Afternoon light hits the peaks to the east beautifully, and the lake itself has a stillness that feels earned after the drive up the Middle Fork road. Seasonal bonuses include wildflowers in late spring, berries in summer, and fall color that reflects off the water.
The Middle Fork road is paved now but can still see seasonal closures or snow-related issues in late winter and early spring. Check conditions before heading up. The small trailhead lot has restrooms and rarely fills to capacity, though weekends in summer see more traffic. Discover Pass required.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Stopped by the Oxbow Loop trail on a sunny Monday morning to check on the status of the tadpoles that we observed back in mid-June.”
Last report: Jul 13, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Middle Fork road may have seasonal closures in winter/early spring
- Occasional downed trees across trail
Getting There
Small lot at the trailhead with restrooms and a trail kiosk. Discover Pass required. Rarely fills to capacity. Located about 11 miles up SE Middle Fork Road from the turnoff at I-90 Exit 34.
From I-90 Exit 34, head north on 468th Ave SE for 0.6 miles, then turn onto SE Middle Fork Road and follow it roughly 11 miles to the trailhead. Road is paved. The loop descends 0.3 miles on an old logging road, reaches the lake viewing platform, then circles back through forest.
Afternoon visits catch the best light on the eastern peaks. No need to rush for parking here.
Recent Reports
Stopped by the Oxbow Loop trail on a sunny Monday morning to check on the status of the tadpoles that we observed back in mid-June. Indeed hundreds of them have already achieved frog status (toad status, actually) but there are still quite a few tadpoles left too.
We had a few extra hours on this rainy day so took the pups for a short hike. It may be sort but in the rain, with no one else on trail in late June, it’s lovely.
This is a lovely spot for a short, rewarding hike. This time of year, the contrast between the fresh green and the reddish-brown moss is pronounced.
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