Wenatchee Crest Snowshoe (Blewett Pass)

The Wenatchee Crest snowshoe route follows Forest Road 800 from the Blewett Pass Sno-Park along a ridge dividing Scotty Creek and Swauk Creek. The trail climbs moderately through fir, hemlock, and scattered western larch for about 3 miles one way, with the recommended turnaround at a large clearcut that opens up an unobstructed panorama of the Teanaway Mountains and the entire Stuart Range. On clear days, Rainier appears to the south.

The first half mile climbs to a junction where you bear left to stay on the ridge. The route traverses the north side of the crest through mixed forest with periodic openings that frame the surrounding peaks. Views of the Enchantments, Mount Stuart, and Mount Fernow develop as you gain elevation. The final clearcut viewpoint is the highlight, a wide-open perch with mountains in every direction.

Blewett Pass is drier and sunnier than the west-side snowshoe options, making it a good pick when Stevens Pass is socked in. A Sno-Parks Permit is required. Snow coverage varies dramatically by year; in low-snow winters, microspikes may suffice for most of the route with snowshoes needed only for the final section. The parking lot rarely fills, even on weekends, and weekday visits can feel completely empty.