This easy ski has some historical interest, as it follows the grade of the Milwaukee Railroad that once carried skiers to Snoqualmie Pass.
The highest part of the grade passes through a tunnel, which should not be part of the tour, for safety's sake. If you plan to venture in, take a very, very large flashlight, because it's darker in there than you might expect. If you've hiked this area in summer, you remember the water seeping through the tunnel walls. Imagine the ice build-up of a cold winter, and you'll get an idea of the spectacle inside.
Following the grade east from the pass is uneventful. Interstate 90 is in plain view most of the time. The snow sheds that protected the rail from avalanche, pose a skiing conundrum: there's no snow inside, so you have to kick off the skis and walk through them. Not what I go skiing for. Eventually, the grade crosses a deep valley over a dilapidated trestle. This is the logical turnaround point.
There is a counterpart to this trail on the west side of the pass, which I have never skied, but the Annette Lake trail crosses it.
Stats: About 3 miles, elevation gain nominal.
Getting there: The trail begins at the lower lot of the Hyak (once Pac West) ski area, east of Ski Acres.
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.