Northwest Hiking Trails

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Lake Easton State Park Sno-Park


Trip report by: Denis

"I would probably recommend this trip to a friend."

CORRECTION: The Eastside Journal article says to take Exit 70, which is not correct. Take exit 72.

Lake Easton State Park is a well-kept secret among cross-country skiers. Approximately five miles (7.5 km) of groomed trails await you, less than 30 minutes east of Snoqualmie Pass. Even though the noise of I-90 is never far away, the groomed trails, fun loop options, and historical interest make this a destination worth visiting.

Photos: [Top] Iron Horse Trail meets Frozen Toe Point trail near the river; [bottom] shared Sno-Park with separate trails.

The 40 spaces of plowed parking in this Sno-Park are in the boat ramp area, just inside the park’s gate. The trails all start here, just beyond a small box that holds trail maps—blue for skiers, orange for snowmobilers. The two types of users are kept separated, except in the first half mile, where their trails run parallel along the original Snoqualmie highway. The weekend I skied here, some snowmobile drivers had shown their contempt for skiers by demolishing the ski tracks set by the groomer. I showed them, though, when no one was looking, by making ski tracks in the snowmobile trail!

Photo Once over the old Fishin’ Bridge, the trails diverge, never to cross again. At a junction, the ski routes are all one-way trails. All of the trails are easy, and blue signs point the way. Little Hill Loop connects to three other loop options of varying length. The longest route leads to Frozen Toe Point, following the Iron Horse railroad bed along the shore. On the way back to the trailhead, try the north and south Loop "D" Loop trails.

Getting there: From I-90, take exit 72, the Easton exit, and drive south into Easton. Follow the main road to the right, passing a small store and gas station. Continue out of town to the west, and follow this narrow road to the park entrance. The entrance gate may be unmanned, but be sure you display your Sno-Park permit and groomed trails sticker for the current ski season. Dogs are not allowed on ski trails.

Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions.

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