Trip Report – Stevens Pass Snowshoe Loop via PCT and Skyline Lake
A warmer‑than‑expected morning greeted us at the east parking area at Stevens Pass, though the brisk wind quickly reminded us it was still winter. The small thermometer clipped to my pack read 34°F, but the wind made it feel noticeably colder as we strapped on our snowshoes.
Our plan was a familiar one: a safe‑snow loop beginning at the Pass, following the PCT north for about 2.5 miles, then leaving the trail to climb the east side of the creek drainage toward the ridge above Skyline Lake. All of us had done this route before, so we had a good sense of the terrain and timing.
We left the parking area around 08:10, starting on firm, compacted snow that gradually gave way to deeper, softer powder as we approached our cutoff point. About 1 hour and 10 minutes in—just before reaching the creek—we turned upslope and began the steady climb toward the ridge. Fine snow fell for most of the day, and the depth increased quickly, often 12–18 inches, making for slow but satisfying progress.
As we neared the ridge, we rotated the lead to break trail. Our youngest adventurer, Steven, took over on the steeper final pitch, a contribution the rest of us—older and wiser—appreciated. We reached the ridge around 12:30, then descended slightly and wrapped around the south side of the frozen lake, where we paused for a short lunch break.
From there, we continued to the east end of Skyline Lake and picked up the road that leads back down to the Pass, following it all the way to our vehicle.
Navigation was straightforward with Gaia, and although our individual tracks varied slightly—as they always do—my readings came to 4.96 miles, 5.75 hours, and 1,395 feet of ascent.
Map and photos are available in the link below.
Comments
Would love to do this backdoor loop. Looking at Gaia, you are coming up quite steep on the backside with a mountain on both sides. Avalanche worries? Thinking about heading up Monday and following your tracks.
Posted by:
RitaWinters on Feb 28, 2026 08:11 PM
Tracks probably covered by now!
We used the creek as guide staying low and in trees when possible. Avalanche danger seemed minimal but check WAC before going!
Posted by:
Norm on Feb 28, 2026 10:26 PM
It did look like you were in the trees for a bit. NAC states considerable at the moment. Thanks for your input!
Posted by:
RitaWinters on Mar 01, 2026 07:18 AM