Unforgettable Adventures at Snoqualmie Pass

Discovering Snoqualmie Pass

Snoqualmie Pass, located in Washington’s Cascade Range, is a winter wonderland perfect for families looking for adventure and fun. Known for its stunning alpine scenery, Snoqualmie Pass offers a variety of winter recreation activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through serene, snow-covered forests. The tubing park and gentle slopes make great family-friendly outings for those with little ones.

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Snoqualmie Pass: A Journey Through Time

Snoqualmie Pass has a rich history of natural beauty and human innovation. It serves as a critical transportation route and continues evolving into a popular recreational destination.

The Indigenous Roots of Snoqualmie Pass

Long before settlers arrived, the Snoqualmie Pass area was home to indigenous peoples, including the Snoqualmie Tribe. The pass provided essential food sources, such as salmon and game, and served as a key trade route for the tribes. The Snoqualmie River, flowing through the valley, was particularly significant for transportation and sustenance.

In the mid-1800s, European settlers began to explore the region, attracted by the beautiful landscapes and opportunities for agriculture. The establishment of homesteads laid the groundwork for the area’s development, but it wasn’t until the arrival of the railroad that Snoqualmie Pass gained prominence as a critical transportation corridor.

How the Great Northern Railway Shaped Snoqualmie Pass’s Landscape

In the late 19th century, the Great Northern Railway played an important role in shaping Snoqualmie Pass. The railway connected the eastern and western parts of Washington State, providing access to the natural resources of the Cascades.

The railway’s success established several small communities, including Snoqualmie Pass, which became a hub for travelers and a launching point for exploration in the surrounding wilderness. The arrival of the railroad made it easier for visitors from Seattle and beyond to experience the area. To learn more about the Railroad that used to run on the trail here visit the Cascade Rail Foundation museum in South Cle Elum.

From Rails to Trails

This rainway has now been turned into a very popular trail called the Palouse to Cascades trail that is managed by Washington State Parks and Recreation. This 287-mile trail runs from Cedar Falls near North Bend to the Idaho border and is popular for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Hyak Tunnel with snow and gate closed on the Palouse to Cascades trail

The Rise of Skiing at Snoqualmie Pass

As more people trailed here Snoqualmie Pass began to become as a winter recreation destination. The first ski area, Snoqualmie Ski Resort, opened in the 1930s, providing locals and visitors with an opportunity to enjoy skiing in the stunning mountain landscapes. The resort featured primitive lifts and basic facilities.

Your Ultimate Guide to Planning an Epic Snoqualmie Pass Adventure

Whether you’re skiing down the slopes, snowshoeing through forests, or simply soaking in the stunning views Snoqualmie Pass is a fantastic outdoor playground.

The Best Times for Winter Fun at Snoqualmie Pass

While Snoqualmie Pass is a year-round destination, the best time for winter recreation is from December through March, when snowfall is most consistent and ski resorts are fully operational. For families looking to avoid crowds, weekdays and early in the season are ideal, as weekends and holidays can get quite busy.

The weather ranges from the mid-20s to the low 30s Fahrenheit, so pack warm layers and check the forecast for road conditions.

Getting There

Snoqualmie Pass is just an hour’s drive east of Seattle by Interstate 90, making it convenient for day trips or weekend stays. Winter driving can be tricky, so be sure your vehicle is equipped with chains or snow tires.

Snoqualmie pass from I90 East heading toward the pass

Parking at The Summit at Snoqualmie requires either a season pass or a separate parking fee. Their largest lot is at Summit Central. Alternatively, nearby Hyak Sno-Park offers additional parking, but a Sno-Park permit is required for access. Arriving early is recommended, as lots tend to fill quickly on weekends.

Cars lined up trying to get into Hyak Sno-Park — Cars lined up to get in to Hyak Sno-Park coming off I90

Two kids holding skis at Summit at Snoqualmie Summit Central Parking lot — Cars lined up to get in to Hyak Sno-Park coming off I90

Accommodations

A variety of different lodging options are available near Snoqualmie Pass. The Summit Inn offers convenient and comfortable accommodations right at the base of the mountain. For a more private and rustic experience, families can rent local cabins, many of which come with fireplaces and beautiful mountain views.

If you’re feeling adventurous, winter camping is available at nearby spots like Denny Creek and Lake Easton State Park, but be prepared for cold weather and limited amenities during the winter months.

Winter Outdoor Adventures at Snoqualmie Pass

Snoqualmie Pass transforms into a winter wonderland every December, offering prime skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing conditions. Here you can glide down the slopes or enjoy the quiet of a snowshoe trek through the forest.

Hiking

While most trails are snow-covered in winter, Snoqualmie Pass offers several family-friendly hikes with stunning views. Gold Creek Pond Trail, a flat 1.2-mile loop, is perfect for families with young kids, with views of the frozen pond and surrounding mountains. However, note that Gold Creek Pond is set to close in 2025 for up to ten years to allow for restoration projects, so be sure to visit soon.

Another easy option is the Franklin Falls Trail, a 2-mile round trip that leads to a beautiful, partially frozen waterfall during the winter months. Twin Falls Trail, though slightly longer at 3.6 miles round trip, is also a family favorite, featuring multiple scenic viewpoints of cascading waterfalls.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The Summit at Snoqualmie is a go-to spot for skiing and snowboarding, offering terrain for all skill levels across its four base areas. You can purchase lift tickets online or at the resort, but booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends. Lessons are available for beginners and advanced skiers, or teach your kid to ski yourself.

Equipment rentals are conveniently available at The Summit, and the new EVO store near the pass also provides off-site rentals. If you are looking to own your equipment you can find affordable gear before making your trip.

One adult and three kids on ski at Summit at Snoqualmie — Lots of great options for beginner skiing at all of the Summit at Snoqualmie locations

Three kids in covered magic carpet at Summit at Snoqualmie — Lots of great options for beginner skiing at all of the Summit at Snoqualmie locations

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a peaceful way to enjoy the winter landscape at Snoqualmie Pass. Hyak Sno-Park is a popular spot with marked snowshoe trails winding through forests. If you don’t have your own gear, REI offers on-site rentals at Hyak, so you can easily outfit the whole family.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is a popular activity at Snoqualmie Pass, with groomed trails at the Summit Nordic Center for all skill levels. Rentals are available, and the peaceful trails provide an excellent alternative to downhill skiing. Erling Stordahl, Hyak Sno-Park, Crystal Springs Sno-Park, and Lake Easton State Park are also great spots for cross-country skiing, offering beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.

Little Girl snowshoeing — Lake Easton State Park is a little bit of a drive but has great snowshoe and cross-country ski trails.

Snowshoes and skis in tracks — Lake Easton State Park is a little bit of a drive but has great snowshoe and cross-country ski trails.

Snowmobiling

If snowmobiling is more of your style, enthusiasts can explore the stunning landscapes of popular trails at Crystal Springs Sno-Park, Lake Kachess, and Easton Reload. For snowmobile rentals and tours, Motor Toys Rentals in Cle Elum is a great local option.

Snow Tubing

Summit at Snoqualmie’s Tubing Hill is the perfect place for families and friends. You can slide down the groomed hill on a giant inner tube, then ride the covered magic carpet back to the top. No experience is necessary, and it’s a great way to spend a winter day. These tickets sell out extremely fast and are only sold online so be sure to buy early in the season.

For a more adventurous tubing experience, head to Hyak Sno-Park. A groomed three to four-lane sledding hill maintained by Washington State Park staff. Visitors must bring their own sleds or tubes and walk them up the hill after sledding. Plastic or rubber sleds only. There are no tow ropes or magic carpets.

Snoqualmie Pass Hyak Sno-Park Snow tubing lanes — Hyak Sno-Park tubing lanes

Permits and Passes

When visiting Snoqualmie Pass, understanding the various permits and passes required for outdoor activities is essential for planning a smooth and enjoyable experience. Below is an overview of the types of passes available, their costs, and what activities they cover.

Sno-Park Permits

Sno-Park permits are required for parking at winter recreation sites in Washington. They are available for purchase from November 1 to April 30. Here are the current fees:

One-Day Permit: $25 (purchased online) / $28 (at retail)
Seasonal Permit: $50 (purchased online) / $53 (at retail)
Special Groomed Trail Permit: $70 (purchased online) / $73 (at retail)

A $3 handling fee applies for permits purchased from retail vendors such as REI. The seasonal and special groomed trail permits allow for access to specific sites that may require extra maintenance

Ski Resort Passes

At the Summit at Snoqualmie, lift tickets, season passes, and snow tubing tickets are required. The pricing can vary based on the type of pass, day of the week, and age category (adult, youth, child). It’s important to check their official website for the most current pricing and available deals. They also offer military and first responder discounts.

Lake Easton State Park Camping Fees

$12 winter camping fee for camping in parking lots. The day-use showers and bathroom are operational during winter camping, however, campgrounds loops and bathrooms are closed.

Snowy Road with tall trees — Lake Easton State Park has gorgeous winter camping views

Snowy Mountain and melted stream — Lake Easton State Park has gorgeous winter camping views

General Notes

Parking: A Sno-Park permit must be displayed in your vehicle while parked at designated areas. Ski resort parking requires either a season pass or a separate parking fee..

Dining at Snoqualmie Pass

Exploring a new area is about more than just the scenery—it’s also about sampling the local flavors! While Snoqualmie Pass may have limited dining options, each one offers a unique and delicious experience that’s worth a stop.

Food at the Ski Resort

The Dining options at The Summit at Snoqualmie are convenient and offer a nice variety, making it easy to grab a bite between runs. However, with our large family, the prices tend to be a bit out of our budget. So, we usually save dining at the Summit for a once-a-season treat rather than an every-visit indulgence.

Summit Central

Timberhouse Café – Burgers, Chili, and Pizza; Serves Beer
Whiskey Pete’s – Beer, Wine, & Spirits; 21+ Only
Coyote’s – street tacos, nachos, snacks; Serves Beer; Outdoor Seating Only
Hot Shotz Espresso – bagels, muffins, rolls, snacks, candy, and coffee
Rodeo’s BBQ – barbecue beef, pork, & chicken, salads, and snacks; Service Beer

Summit East & Nordic Center

Milwaukee Lodge Café – burgers and curly fries, grilled favorites, and wraps
Broken Tip Bar – Beer, Wine, & Spirits; 21+ Only

Summit West

Timberwolf Pub – table service, flatbreads, Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Stan’s Café – burgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, fries, grab-n-go salads, and snacks
Big Air BBQ – BBQ platters and a mini beer garden

Alpental

Tiroler Stube – pizza, burgers, chicken sandwiches, soup, salads, beers, and weekend breakfast
Backcountry Bar – Pizza; Beer, Wine, & Spirits; 21+ Only
Powder House – craft beers and tacos

Silver Fir

Silver Fir Café- teriyaki chicken and daily specials
Silver Fir Bar – Beer, Wine, & Spirits; 21+ Only

Off-Site Dining

Off-site dining around Snoqualmie Pass gives a chance to explore local flavors without breaking the bank. While options may be limited, they’re full of character and offer a range of affordable choices that work well for families. These spots have become our go-to for fueling up after a day on the slopes—perfect for regular visits without the special-occasion price tag.

Pie for the People

For more affordable and delicious meals, Pie for the People is a popular spot just off-site, serving up large New York-style pizza slices that are perfect for refueling after a day on the slopes. This is my family’s personal favorite after-ski treat. It is connected to Lee Summit Grocery but is a separate business.

Dru Bru

Another nearby favorite is Dru Bru, a local brewery offering craft beers and light snacks, along with the Squatch Box food truck. The truck serves up gourmet hot dogs, chicken baskets & bowls, salads, and vegetarian options, providing a more reasonably priced and tasty alternative.

Tailgating & Packing Food

To skip the higher prices at the resort, many families opt to pack their own food or join the lively tailgate scene at Snoqualmie Pass. The parking lots come alive with people grilling and sharing meals between ski runs, creating a fun and budget-friendly atmosphere. Packing lunch or snacks is an easy way to save both money and time, all while enjoying a meal in a stunning outdoor setting.

Little kid eating a packed dinner after skiing — Packed meals are a delicious inexpensive option for eating while visiting Snoqualmie Pass

Tips for a Memorable Visit to Snoqualmie Pass

A memorable visit to Snoqualmie Pass is all about enjoying the outdoors safely, respecting nature, and following local etiquette. With these simple tips, we can make the most of our time on the mountain while helping preserve its beauty for everyone.

Safety

In winter conditions, safety is key—check weather and avalanche forecasts, and prepare for changing weather. Dress in layers, especially for kids, and bring proper gear, including helmets for skiing and snowboarding. Stick to marked trails, be mindful of others, and always have a partner and navigation tools if heading into the backcountry.

Respect for Nature

Snoqualmie Pass is a stunning natural environment, and it’s essential to preserve its beauty for future generations. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, minimizing campfire impacts, and staying on designated trails. Be respectful of wildlife; observe from a distance and do not feed animals, as this can harm their natural behaviors and habitats.

Local Etiquette

When exploring Snoqualmie Pass, remember to respect the local community and its residents. Be courteous in parking areas, keep noise down, and, on busy weekends, arrive early to avoid I-90 traffic and full lots.

Use designated parking and always clean up after yourself to help preserve the area’s beauty and charm. With the large budget cuts to the US Forest Service, a decision that will cut about 2,400 jobs, it is especially important to stay on the trail and pack your trash out with you.

Accessibility

Snoqualmie Pass is dedicated to being an inclusive destination for all visitors, including individuals with disabilities. They understand the importance of making outdoor recreation accessible and have implemented various initiatives and resources to ensure that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty and activities the area has to offer.

Accessibility at Ski Resorts

The Summit at Snoqualmie is committed to accessibility, offering adaptive ski programs and specialized equipment for guests with disabilities. With trained instructors and gear like sit-skis, everyone can enjoy the slopes safely. The resort features accessible facilities, including ramps, designated parking, and wheelchair-friendly lifts, so be sure to inquire about adaptive services in advance.

Outdoors for All Organization

A valuable resource for individuals with disabilities or special needs seeking outdoor recreation is the Outdoors for All Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing inclusive experiences. They offer adaptive sports programs, including skiing and snowboarding, with trained volunteers and equipment to ensure participation for all abilities. Their supportive environment helps build confidence and a love for outdoor activities.

Outdoors for All also hosts group outings and educational workshops to promote awareness of accessibility in outdoor recreation. We often see them enjoying the slopes at The Summit at Snoqualmie, which provides priority parking for the organization. If you’re interested in teaching your child with special needs to ski on your own, you can find helpful tips in this how-to article.

Snoqualmie Pass – The Heart of the Cascades

Snoqualmie Pass is a winter wonderland, perfect for outdoor fun and breathtaking views. You can hit the slopes at The Summit, try some peaceful snowshoeing, or grab a tasty slice at Pie for the People. Just remember to keep safety and nature in mind for a great visit!

So, why not dive into your adventure at Snoqualmie Pass? I’d love to hear your favorite tips in the comments to help other visitors make the most of their trip!