The Nordic Center at Stevens Pass is a great place to learn and practice cross-country skiing. Many of us remember this trail as the Mill Creek road, before the Nordic Center was built. Skiing this valley after the Center closes for the year is reminiscent of years past (but without the exhaust fumes).
Photo: Leslie's smiling because the sun is out and we're the only people here today.
Trusty "Mae Westfalia" was the only car in the dirt parking lot across the creek from the Nordic Center lodge. The sun was shining, and the temperature was about 68F. Snow had retreated from this elevation weeks before, but a season of grooming had left a persistent snowpack on the ski trails.
It would help to have skied here during the season, because the old road (shown on quad maps) has been supplemented by numerous other parallel and connecting trails (not shown on the maps). It's hard to get too lost, though, as long as you stay between the ridge and the riverbank. Most of the trails start out with a very slow, steady climb. We only had a couple of hours, so we skied up the main road for a while, then returned by another trail that winds through the woods closer to the river. You can ski about 4 flat miles to the base of the ski lift, and steeper alternatives lead to Lanham Lake or the Pacific Crest Trail.
Stats: Distance and elevation gain are up to you. Getting there: Drive US 2 east to the summit (where the alpine ski area is), and beyond it by about 6 miles. Turn right at a large sign marking the entrance to the Stevens Pass Nordic Center. Park there, and ski.
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.