My first time doing the Snoqualmie Tunnel as a local and think it’d be a perfect and unique experience for out of town guests at this time of year that like to walk, run, or ride a bike while looking at lakes, mountains, waterfalls, wildflowers, and butterflies. My partner and I used mountain bikes to ride on this multi-use trail from Hyak through the tunnel and to the Hansen Creek Railroad Trestle. From there we turned around and rode back through the tunnel, past Hyak to continue on to Lake Keechelus. There were many lovely views of the lake that would have made good turn around points. There was one particularly lovely spot that had a natural bench with three boulders and awesome view that we stopped at for photos and snacks. Ultimately we made Roaring Creek, about a quarter mile north of Roaring Creek Campground, our turn around point and headed back to Hyak. This was for me one bike ride that covered what I would have needed two hikes to do. About 24 miles total but less than 500 ft of elevation gain. I’ll break the rest of this report into two separate ones for the different sides and with their own photos. Please read the other report for info on the opposite side if interested.
Specific info for the lake side from Hyak: It’s about 5 miles from Hyak to Roaring Creek. There are a few opportunities for toilet stops in between and a number of creeks that feed into the lake. The waterfalls were running but low and it seemed warmer on this side. Roaring Creek was my favorite with its lush green riparian area where it entered the lake. There was also a bigger waterfall further up the creek on a short but steep trail. Be careful though because it looked like it butted up against private property and the view point was steep and covered with unstable soil. I didn’t want to risk a slip and fall just for a better view or photo. What I could see was impressive enough.
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