Skyline Lake Snowshoe
Central CascadesBest Dec–Mar
A steep but short snowshoe climb from Stevens Pass to a frozen alpine lake with sweeping Cascade views.
About This Trail
Skyline Lake sits just above Stevens Pass, reached by a short but steep climb up a service road. In winter, the road disappears under deep snowpack, and the route becomes one of the most popular snowshoe outings in the Central Cascades. The grade is consistent and direct, gaining over 1,000 feet in just 1.5 miles. Snowshoes or microspikes are essential depending on conditions, and the packed-down trail sees heavy traffic on weekends.
The frozen lake at 5,092 feet sits in a broad alpine bowl with views into the Alpine Lakes and Glacier Peak Wildernesses. On clear days the panorama stretches north to the Monte Cristo peaks. From the lake, a short extension northwest reaches a ridge gap where the views expand further, and a quarter-mile side trip leads to a rock garden with house-sized boulders scattered across the ridge.
This route works well as an introduction to winter snowshoeing. The service road stays on a relatively safe line between steeper avalanche-prone slopes to the west and east. Staying on the established route is critical. The trailhead sits right at the Stevens Pass ski area, making it easy to combine with other activities or grab a warm meal after.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Well today the crew took off to snowshoe to Lake Valhalla via the PCT winter route.”
Last report: Mar 31, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Avalanche terrain flanks the route on both sides; stay on the established service road
- Frozen lake ice thickness is unpredictable; do not walk on the lake surface
- Steep grade can be icy during freeze-thaw cycles; microspikes recommended as backup
- Wind exposure increases significantly above treeline near the lake and ridge
Getting There
Park in the north lot at Stevens Pass ski area. Winter parking may require a reservation through the Stevens Pass system. Free shuttle service runs from overflow lots. No pass required for the trail itself. The lot fills early on sunny winter weekends.
The route follows a service road uphill from the Stevens Pass parking area, passing under transmission lines and a radio tower. The grade is steady and steep. In good conditions the trail is well-packed by foot traffic. Follow the bootpack and avoid straying onto steeper slopes to either side. The lake sits at the top of the road climb. Continue northwest for the ridge extension.
Start by mid-morning to catch the best snow conditions before afternoon softening. On sunny days, the south-facing slopes warm quickly. Early starts also secure parking. Plan 2 to 3 hours round trip for the lake, longer if extending to the ridge.
Recent Reports
For anyone in moderate shape and hikes regularly, this hike is very doable. We didn’t have to trail break which really made it a lot more enjoyable.
First of Valhalla then skyline. Well today the crew took off to snowshoe to Lake Valhalla via the PCT winter route.
Snowshoed up to the lake and beyond to the peak. There were only a few people out there with their dogs.
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