Distance
6.2 miles roundtrip
Trail Guide
Snow Lake Trail
6.2 mi roundtrip · 1,800 ft gain · Moderate · Snow Lake
Trail Stats
Elevation Gain
1,800 ft
Highest Point
4,400 ft
Trailhead Elevation
3,100 ft
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Type
Out And Back
Features
Alpine lake
Mountain views
Swimming (summer)
Technical Notes
One of the most popular alpine lake hikes near Seattle. Trail gains a ridge then drops to the lake. Well-maintained with some rocky sections. Extremely crowded on summer weekends — arrive very early. Snow on trail into late June. No camping within 0.25 miles of lake.
Getting There
Trailhead
Alpental / Snow Lake Trailhead
Alpental Rd, Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Parking: ~60 spaces
From Seattle
52 mi · 60 min drive
I-90 East to Exit 52 (Snoqualmie Pass West). Turn left, then right onto Alpental Rd. Follow to the end and the Snow Lake trailhead.
Planning Details
Best Season
June through October
Dogs Allowed
Yes
Required Pass
Northwest Forest Pass
Annual: $30.00 · Day: $5.00
Mountain
Snow Lake · 4,400 ft · Snoqualmie Region
Avalanche Forecast
Check current avalanche conditions for the Snow Lake zone before your trip.
Ready to plan?
Get a full trip report with weather, gear, logistics, and an event draft.