Nordic Pass – Hyak

Try this backcountry ski or snowshoe trail through deep forest, past lakes and with access to Windy Pass and Mount Catherine. Be sure to bring a map and have some experience with route-finding before tackling this hike.

From the trailhead, pass a small stream and follow blue diamond markers along the trail. Note that depending on snowpack, these can be hard to see. Occasionally, you will see yellow badges printed with snowshoes from time to time. These mark a snowshoe trail maintained by the Snoqualmie Nordic Center. Be sure not to follow it.

The first open area you cross is a ski resort trail with power poles — part of Iron Horse trail. Your next open area is a meadow near Hyak Lake. Turn left and continue follow blue diamonds. You will once more encounter power lines and groomed nordic trail. Hike through deep forest for until you arrive at radio tower (or weather station).

Here you will see a sign for Windy Pass. Here you are faced with a decision; you can go to Windy Pass, or if you've packed gear, you can ski back via groomed trail back to Hyak.

If you're feeling particularly ambitious, you can climb up to Mount Catherine. This route is not marked and does require route finding skills and your map. Note also that the way up Mount Catherine may have different avalanche conditions than the rest of your hike, so be aware of what the risk here is. The round trip distance up Mount Catherine is 9.5 miles.

WTA Pro Tip: When you're sharing the trail with nordic skiers, be sure to avoid walking in the ski tracks. And remember, skiers coming downhill have right of way.

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