Washington's Picturesque Alpine Hiking Trail Is An Underrated Alternative To Mount Rainier

For those on the hunt for a breathtaking mountain hike, Washington is one of the absolute best states for hiking across the U.S., home to one of the world's 10 best hikes: Mount Rainier. But for those looking for a spot without the heavy crowds so often found there, Snow Lake Trail is the perfect underrated alternative that delivers stunning alpine beauty. Located just a one-hour drive from Seattle in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness within Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this is one of the state's most rewarding alpine treks. It's also easily accessible in terms of location, making it a great option for a local day-trip or short stay.

The trail itself is a 6.58-mile out and back hike, with an elevation gain of 1,700 feet. This makes it a moderate challenge for most hikers, so for those just starting out, be sure to wait until you have a little more experience hiking before you attempt this one. Along the route, visitors pass through lush forests, wildflower meadows, and rocky ridges. One of the best spots along the trail is the stunning crystal waters of Snow Lake, which sits cradled by jagged mountain peaks. The dramatic alpine setting that surrounds this trail makes it one of the most photogenic hikes in Washington, and the perfect option for those looking for iconic views without venturing too far off the beaten path.

While swimming in Snow Lake is technically possible, it's important to keep in mind that the water is icy cold year-round. Instead of venturing into the lake, most visitors opt to admire it from a distance. It's good to plan ahead for your visit, and enjoy a picnic and relax by the shore, soaking in the serene alpine views before heading back along the trail.

While Mount Rainier National Park is incredibly famous, it's due to this notoriety that it sees large crowds. Also, its location often requires longer travel times for tourists looking to visit. In contrast, Snow Lake Trail offers a peaceful alpine escape, less than one-hour from downtown Seattle, which makes it much more convenient.

This proximity makes Snow Lake an ideal day-trip destination, or the perfect spot for travelers who want to maximize their time outdoors without the commitment of a multi-day excursion. Those looking to enjoy a couple of days in the great outdoors typically prefer to spend their time at Mount Rainier.

Snow Lake also provides a more approachable introduction to alpine hiking. Despite being a moderately challenging trail, it's well-marked, and begins at the Alpental Ski Area nearby Snoqualmie Pass, which is easily accessible from interstate 90. Unlike the longer, more strenuous hikes at Mount Rainier, Snow Lake seemingly strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and reward, offering up panoramic views, scenic landscapes covered with vibrant wildflowers during summer, and pristine snow-dusted scenery in late-fall. It's a great choice for families, casual hikers, or anyone craving big-mountain views with fewer logistics.

The best time to plan your visit to Snow Lake is typically between July and October. At this time, the snow has melted and the trail is fully open. Early summer can still see patches of snow on the ground, so it's important to bring appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots. Fall offers crisp air and views of gorgeous golden trees, which makes it especially beautiful. It's not recommended to hike during winter unless you're well experienced in snow travel and avalanche safety, as the adverse weather conditions can make it particularly dangerous.

For those looking to stay in the area surrounding Snow Lake, the nearby Snoqualmie Pass is a small west coast town known for incredible winter outdoor adventures. It has a couple of cozy lodges, cabins, and vacation rentals where you can stay close to the trailhead. Summit Inn is a great choice, with rooms starting at $150 per night. For more options, North Bend is located around 30 minutes away, and boasts a range of hotels and inns with plenty of dining and services nearby. Salish Lodge & Spa is a good choice, with rooms starting around $350 per night. Those looking to combine their adventure with a city stay can head into Seattle, just one hour away, and include a trip to Snow Lake as a rewarding day-trip.

Parking is available at the Alpental Ski Area, but this can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so be sure to arrive early if you plan on visiting then. A parking permit is required to park here for hikers, so be sure to obtain this in advance of your visit. Be sure to also pack plenty of water and snacks for your day on the trail, and dress with layered clothing, as mountain weather can change quickly.