Stevens Pass Nordic Center

Central CascadesBest Dec–Mar

Groomed snowshoe loops through old-growth forest at the Stevens Pass Nordic Center.

4 miDistance
Elevation
High Point
12h+Drive
moderateCrowds
Fair in rain

About This Trail

The Stevens Pass Nordic Center occupies a forested basin 5 miles east of Stevens Pass along Highway 2, with about 4 miles of designated snowshoe routes through old-growth forest. Four named routes form a network: Hobo Hop (0.75 km short loop), Steppin' Stoker (3.5 km loop along Mill Creek), Clickity Clack (main connector corridor), and Coal Burner (extending to the biathlon range). A full tour of all routes covers roughly 4.25 km.

The snowshoe trails share space with groomed cross-country and skate ski trails, and the marking system has drawn mixed reviews. Some visitors find the routes poorly signed and frustrating to follow, while others report a pleasant experience snowshoeing among big trees along the creek. The forest itself is the draw: large conifers, quiet drainage bottoms, and occasional wildlife sightings make it feel more remote than its roadside location suggests.

A Northwest Forest Pass is required for the parking lot. Snowshoe trail fees may also apply through the Nordic Center. The lot fills on busy winter weekends when it competes with skiers heading to Stevens Pass. The area pairs well with Lanham Lake snowshoe, which starts from the same parking area for a longer, steeper objective.

Astronomy

MoonWaning Gibbous (70%)
Stargazingexcellent

Trail Conditions

Scorecard

moderateBeauty
Type 1Fun
1.2/5Difficulty
2/5Wildness
1/5Exposure
2/5Reward
1.5/5Effort
moderateCrowdsPeak: busy

Shared facility with cross-country skiers. Busy on winter weekends, especially when Stevens Pass ski area is crowded. Quieter on weekdays.

Getting There

Google MapsApple Maps
Parking

Northwest Forest Pass required. Shared lot with Nordic Center cross-country skiers. Can fill on busy winter weekends.

Similar Hikes