About This Trail

Hyak — the former Summit East ski area at Snoqualmie Pass, now operated as a separate uphill-friendly venue — gives Seattle backcountry skiers a short-approach option for midwinter laps. Skin tracks set up the existing groomer corridors when the resort isn't running lifts, and adjacent forested benches deliver the actual backcountry skiing. Vertical per lap stays modest, around fifteen hundred to two thousand feet, but the proximity to I-90 and reliable Pacific snow keep it busy through the season.

The skiing is mostly tree skiing on north-facing benches, with steeper drop-ins where the old resort terrain transitions to backcountry. Snow quality follows the standard Snoqualmie pattern — heavy through wet cycles, lighter on cold north flow days. Avalanche terrain is present on the steeper north aspects; keep current with the NWAC West Slopes South forecast.

Access is straightforward by Snoqualmie Pass standards. The Summit East lot serves uphill skiers; sno-park permit required during the ski season. This is one of the most accessible touring zones in the state — ideal for after-work laps, headlamp tours, and conditions checks before driving for bigger objectives.

Ski Terrain

Mostly tree skiing on north-facing benches adjacent to old resort terrain, with some steeper drop-ins where backcountry begins. Skinnable groomer corridors during off-hours. Modest 1,500-2,000 ft per lap.

Skin Track

Skin tracks set up the old groomer lines when resort is not running lifts. Standard backcountry trail-breaking through the trees beyond the resort boundary.

Seasonal Highlights

JanCold mid-winter skiing on north aspects

FebStable mid-winter snowpack — prime backcountry month

MarSpring corn cycles begin on lower-angle aspects

DecEarly-season coverage builds, low-angle skiing once base sets

Astronomy

MoonWaning Gibbous (70%)

Stargazingexcellent

Trail Conditions

Scorecard

moderateBeautyQuick-access pass-corridor laps with reliable snow.

Type 1.5Fun

2.5/5Difficulty

1.5/5Wildness

2/5Exposure

2.5/5Reward

2.5/5Effort

moderateCrowdsPeak: busy

After-work and weekend traffic from Seattle. Headlamp laps after dark are popular and the parking lot stays active into the evening.

Safety & Considerations

Persistent Hazards

Avalanche terrain on the steeper north aspects — check NWAC West Slopes South before heading out
Pacific storm cycles bring rain through midwinter — snow quality changes fast
Resort uphill policy can change — confirm current uphill access before skinning groomers