Gold Creek Pond offers an accessible, paved loop hike around a scenic mountain pond. At Snoqualmie Pass, you can also choose among PCT trailheads, lakeside paths, alpine scenery, and a snowshoeing option, each offering a different focus. Deciding which of these you want to shape your stay is a good first step in choosing a destination.

PCT, Trailheads, and Bike Trail

At Snoqualmie Pass North Trailhead, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) provides access to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness; from Snoqualmie Pass South Trailhead, it heads west and south. If you plan to hike the PCT, choose your starting point based on your preferred focus: access to the wilderness at North Trailhead or the west- and southbound route from South Trailhead. This makes choosing a starting point a practical step in your planning.

For cyclists, the 18-mile western section of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail offers another option. It runs from the area around North Bend to the Snoqualmie Pass Tunnel. Its length and endpoints give this section a clear scope and distinguish this bike ride from the PCT hikes. You can weigh the activity and route that best fit your travel plans.

Lakeshores, Pond, and Alpine Scenery

The hike from Snoqualmie Pass to Lodge Lake follows the shore of Beaver Lake. Gold Creek Pond offers a different experience: the paved loop around the scenic mountain pond is accessible. There is also a picnic area with numerous tables. When choosing between a lakeshore hike and a loop around the pond, the trail type and picnic facilities offer different considerations.

The Snow Lake Trail begins at the north end of the Alpental Ski Area's main parking lot and offers alpine scenery with crystal-clear waters and towering peaks. Kendall Katwalk is a hike at Snoqualmie Pass featuring old-growth forest, spectacular wildflowers, and impressive mountain views. If you're choosing based on scenery, these trails offer different highlights: alpine waters and peaks on the Snow Lake Trail, and forest, flowers, and views at Kendall Katwalk.

A Winter Snowshoeing Option

At Annette Lake Sno-Park, visitors can access the Palouse to Cascades Trail on snowshoes. The Sno-Park has a plowed parking lot with more than 40 spaces and a restroom. For a winter trip, you can consider the starting point as well as the activity.

Snoqualmie Pass as a Destination for Your Stay

If you're looking for a hotel in Snoqualmie Pass, first consider whether hiking, biking, or snowshoeing fits your plans. These different activities can help you assess whether the destination suits your interests; the scenery and trail type can then offer further guidance for planning outings.

Explore more destinations: Ronald, Ellensburg, Kittitas, Cle Elum

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