This was formerly the Bandera Road, which leads in a few miles to Lookout Point, the trailhead parking lot for Talapus Lake and beyond. The road is skiable only in the height of winter, most years. This year, due to the heavy snowfall, it was skiable from the freeway interchange (1700'). The snow cover effectively closes the road, even to the Stupid Tires Club, leaving the snow intact for self-powered enjoyment.
When I got to the small, plowed parking area, I knew I was in for a workout. Fresh snow had fallen the night before, and I was the first skier to reach the trail. Breaking trail was no problem as I passed the first switchback, then the second. By the third, the fresh powder snow was about a foot deep, and my backcountry skis were sinking in. At halfway, the going was very slow. By the time I got within half a mile from the road's end, every step was a struggle. I was wishing I had brought snowshoes instead of skis!
The view from Lookout Point was nice when the clouds cleared briefly. I could see all the way down the valley to the east. Then it started snowing beautiful, big flakes.
To reach Talapus Lake, you would ski straight ahead, across the parking lot, and you'll find the tops of some signs in the snow just inside the woods. The trail is wide at first and easy to find. After that, you'll need map and compass to find the lake. It's in a beautiful setting, flanked by the avalanche chutes of Bandera Mtn and Pratt Mtn.
The reward for breaking a nice set of tracks uphill is that you get to glide effortlessly back down to the car. As I turned to head back downhill from the road's end, I met two goons on foot. They had used the new ski trail to hike up there, completely demolishing the tracks! (I have to wonder what they were doing there, obviously unprepared novices, hiking in hip-deep snow.)
Stats: The road is about 2.5 miles to the top. Elevation gained is 900 ft. Road end elevation is 2600'. Avalanche danger is nil, unless you wish to continue 2.4 more miles and another 900' to Talapus Lake.
Getting there: Drive east toward Snoqualmie Pass on I-90, but take Exit 45. Turn left, go under I-90, and park wherever you can (but not in the interchange area). No permit is required. The lake can also be reached in about 3 miles via exit 47.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.