Stevens Pass Nordic Center
Central CascadesBest Dec–Mar
Groomed snowshoe loops through old-growth forest at the Stevens Pass Nordic Center.
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
Trail Conditions
“Great snow day at Steven’s Nordic area!”
Last report: Jan 16, 2025
Scorecard
Shared facility with cross-country skiers. Busy on winter weekends, especially when Stevens Pass ski area is crowded. Quieter on weekdays.
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Getting There
Northwest Forest Pass required. Shared lot with Nordic Center cross-country skiers. Can fill on busy winter weekends.
Recent Reports
Great snow day at Steven’s Nordic area! It was 33 degrees when we pulled in the lot just after 10:00.
The Kent Sr’s winter sport bus went to Steven’s Nordic area today and it was an awesome Blue Bird day! We pulled in after 9:30 and it was in the upper 20’s with clear blue skies.
The Stevens Pass Nordic Center claims to have have snow shoe trails. However they are not maintained to any extent and are so poorly marked as to be a total frustration and not worth the bother and definitely not worth the fee.
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