A winter welcome at the trailhead

Snow Lake welcomed me with rain, fog and fresh snow, but it also reminded me why winter hiking in Washington is worth every mile. The scenery felt like an early Christmas present and the experience taught me a few lessons I needed to learn again.

A trail that teaches you respect

Visiting Snow Lake in December requires planning. Weather and road conditions can shift within an hour in Washington. At home it was only wet, but as I drove toward the mountains the air grew colder, my ears popped and I watched the rain turn to snow. By the time I reached the main parking area at the Snoqualmie Pass ski resort, the temperature had dropped enough to make me grateful for every piece of gear I brought. The parking cost was $25, which feels steep when you know there are free spots about half a mile down.

Starting the trail, the rain and cold set the tone. Snow covered the path and reminded me that winter must be respected the same way we respect fire. It can be fun, but it can turn on you fast. Good gear makes a difference. My Hoka waterproof boots and my spikes saved my day. There is an avalanche zone on this trail and although the snow was not deep enough this time to trigger anything, it was a good reminder that conditions matter.

I learned that my expensive waterproof jacket does not perform as advertised. It failed in the rain and now I know I need a real winter shell. I also made a mistake by not carrying a backpack. Six miles in snow should never be underestimated. At least I carried a few essentials in my pockets, including rope, a small first aid kit and a helmet with a light. I would rather look silly than experience another serious accident like the one I had in Flagstaff. Safety is not optional. Today the spikes, helmet and pants worked well. The jacket and gloves did not. Now I know what to upgrade.

The beauty of Snow Lake in winter

As I moved higher, the trail turned magical. Snow along the ridges, fog drifting between the trees and the calm sound of winter silence. Snow Lake is beautiful and peaceful, even in December. I cannot wait to return in spring when the views open and the trail feels alive in a different way. I live only an hour away, so this will become a frequent stop.

Washington’s mountain roads are another story. Roads close often for winter, even trash cans get removed for the season. The state is full of beauty, yet getting to that beauty is not always easy. I was grateful I drove my Jeep with winter tires instead of my large travel van. In winter a smaller vehicle with four-wheel drive is the better choice.

One thing I noticed is the number of dogs on the trail. I love dogs, but many were off leash and running through icy areas. It is unsafe for the dogs and for hikers. A leash on winter trails protects everyone.

Walking, learning and resetting

These shorter hikes help me fine tune what works for me. They remind me to stay humble, patient and prepared. They also remind me that movement matters. The cozy mix of snow and rain in Washington has already added a few pounds to me this season. It is tempting to stay inside when the weather is hard. Still, I choose to keep moving. I do not need to be super skinny. I enjoy my cookies and ice cream and I keep working on my own balance at 55. I am a work in progress. What matters is how often I reset, breathe and start with intention.

Hiking gives me something that trail running never gave me. Running is about pace and finishing. Hiking is meditation. It slows me down enough to hear the trees, see the fog and feel gratitude for the place I live. I appreciate the snow, the rocks, the light, the smell of pine and the connection with nature that keeps me grounded. I may not fully understand how the universe or God works, but if this planet is a gift, then it is one I will continue to honor with each hike.

A moment to appreciate the season

Winter in Washington is no joke, but it is also a season filled with small miracles. Today felt like an early Christmas gift and a reminder to enjoy the cold, respect the snow and stay grateful. I will keep hiking, snow or not. Moving forward is what matters.

Diego Bianco | www.diegotalks.com

Publisher, journalist, and content creator about technology, planet, people, and leadership adventures.