Source Lake, Source Lake - Winter Route — Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009

Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass

It was a special day of sorts so a sunny, snowy hike was in order since skiing just does not make sense on boilerplate surfaces. Suckered a friend in on the very chilly adventure but the summer trail gets plenty of sun at this time of year. CAUTION: The summer trail to Snow/Source Lake is definitely subject to avalanche conditions and the debris fields, that is plural, we crossed were evidence of the power and number of areas along the trail where danger can definitely lurk. We had intended to try for either Snow or the ridge but the very stiff snow conditions without real crampons probably would not be advisable. There were a few water ice crossings and they needed caution, too. Some nice frozen waterfalls both small and larger. At the junction we headed up the switchback, the end of the first switchback was across a debris field and steeper slope and the next switchback got narrow and icy and yak traks were not the tool of choice. We turned around and back at the junction headed up the broken trail to above Source Lake where sun and lunch were enjoyed. Saw two skiers carrying skis from below but never saw then use them. Headed back to the car enjoying the sun when we passed open areas. The waterfall area not far from the trailhead echoed with voices and we saw two ice climbers plying their skills. Saw another two skiers right at the trailhead - not happy about the conditions. Frankly, there were NO conditions. I think one of them mentioned "bobsled run." Sounds like the icy snow will continue for a while longer but maybe new snow over the weekend or next week. Repeating CAUTION: Again, the summer trail should only be snow hiked under special conditions of stability. Folks have been killed by avalanches along this route and not just at Source Lake but along the main trail.