As I gaze mindlessly at the tips of my skis, listening to their silent shuffle, I am pleased that I have chosen the right wax today. Harder wax, and I would lose my grip when kicking off; softer, and I would not glide as well. What simplicity. In the cold morning air, amidst the smell of pine and wool, I realize that this wax, this moment, is a metaphor for life.
Meanwhile, behind me, my friends are discovering that you have to keep one ski on each side of your body. This is their first time out on cross-country skis, and Gold Creek is the perfect place for it. They'll practice rhythm and balance, falling and getting up. Then they'll learn the sidestep and herringbone, between short downhill runs on sit-marked knolls. On the way back, they'll experience stride and glide. Finally, hot chocolate and congratulations back at the van. They'll be thrilled.
Photos: [Top] Alien being (visible as a bluish figure at center) walks effortlessly across the partly-frozen Gold Creek. [Bottom] After going skiing with me so many times, Jessica deserves to have her photo on the web.
Gold Creek is easy to reach, within about an hour of Seattle, with a big Sno-Park at the trailhead. Yes, it's popular, and you will have trouble finding a parking place--not to mention solitude--on a weekend day. The same Sno-Park serves Kendall Knob, if you're looking for something more challenging, but if that's all you want, you're somewhere other than Snoqualmie Pass today.
Gold Creek road starts on the old highway, just north of I-90 and just east of the summit. Across the freeway are Ski Acres X-C ski rentals, the 30-plus lifts of the groomed downhill area, plus a restaurant, bar, gas station and grocery store.
The trails are easy, fairly level, with a few rises for novice excitement. Gert off the trail to the west and play in the open fields of a snowed-in picnic ground and a small lake. It's hard to get lost here. Just head south, and you'll find a road that leads back to the car.
Dangerous avalanche terrain keeps smart skiers out of the valley above the summer homes. If you're familiar with the Alaska Lake or Joe Lake trails, don't plan on going nearly that far. There's plenty of space in the first 1.5 miles.
Stats: 1.5 miles, nominal elevation gain. High point 2900'.
Getting there: Exit I-90 at Hyak/Rocky Run/Gold Creek, just east of the summit of Snoqualmie Pass. Park on the north side of the freeway in the Sno-Park. Ski up Gold Creek Road, which is almost at the end of the Sno-Park. Permit required.
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.