Surprise Lake Snowshoe

The Surprise Lake snowshoe route follows the Surprise Creek drainage for 4 miles to reach Surprise Lake at 4,500 feet, gaining 2,300 feet along the way. Unlike the summer hiking trail, the winter route does not follow a defined path for much of its length, instead winding up the narrow Skykomish River valley through old-growth forest. Navigation skills and avalanche awareness are essential, as the steep valley walls create real terrain traps.

The lower mile starts under powerlines before entering old-growth western red cedar and Douglas fir. The grade steepens significantly in the upper half, and recent trip reports describe the final push to the lake as the crux, with steep snow requiring aggressive kick-stepping or crampon-compatible snowshoes. The frozen lake itself sits in a dramatic cirque below Surprise Mountain and Thunder Mountain.

This is a serious winter objective that should not be underestimated based on the moderate summer trail rating. Icy conditions on the lower trail, deep unconsolidated snow higher up, and the lack of a marked winter route combine to make this significantly harder than its summer counterpart. Some parties turn around before reaching the lake and still report a satisfying day. Bring microspikes for the icy lower sections and switch to snowshoes as snow depth increases.