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Snowshoeing In Seattle WA
Getting started: Your Guide to Snowshoeing Trails in Seattle, WA
Explore the Winter Wonderland of the PNW with Gearhouse!
Get ready for a snowshoeing adventure that’s perfect for everyone—from seasoned snowshoers to families introducing their kids to winter trails. Whether you're based near Seattle or planning a quick getaway, we’ll guide you to the best trails in the area for fresh snow, stunning alpine peak views, and plenty of fun.
With no lift lines and no crowds, you’ll experience the magic of winter the way it’s meant to be—quiet forests, crisp mountain air, and the satisfying crunch of snow underfoot. Our expert guides help you plan your route, factoring in location, elevation gain, and ideal trail conditions.
Whether you're looking for beginner-friendly snowshoe routes, backcountry winter escapes, or scenic loops perfect for a family photo op, Gearhouse has you covered. Gear up for an unforgettable home-base adventure in Washington, and let's explore the snow-covered world together—whether by snowshoe or ski!
What you'll need
Gear
Includes MSR snowshoes and collapsible trekking poles
Keep the snow away from your ankles and down your shoes
Kahtoola MICROspikes® Traction System allows anyone to get out and enjoy most any condition.
Snowshoe Packing List: Your Winter Trail Guide for Snowshoeing in Seattle, WA
Alright! You've secured your gear, what else is there?
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Snowshoes & trekking poles
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Layered clothing appropriate to the weather.
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Snow/Rain pants
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Lunch & snacks
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1-2L water
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Day pack with 10 essentials: food, water, sun protection, clothing, navigation, headlamp, fire starter, repair kit, first aid, emergancy blanket.
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Optional: microspikes, sit pad, Gaitors
Guide To Snowshoe Day Trips Near Seattle
Strap on your snowshoes and get outdoors! If you’re intimidated by skiing or looking for a low-cost, family-friendly alternative, snowshoeing is an accessible winter sport for all experience levels. In this guide, we’ll share some of our favorite snowshoe spots within two hours of Seattle (and a few farther afield) in order of proximity, and all the maps, guides, and gear you need to get there.
GEAR: Snowshoeing can be a leisurely stroll or a heart-pumping workout. As with any outdoor winter activity, we recommend making sure you wear sweat-wicking material and layer your gear so you can remove and add warmth as needed. One of the best things about snowshoeing is that you don’t need a ton of specialized gear! Take many of the same items you’d need to stay warm and dry on a winter hike. If you need to pick up new gear, our gearshop has you covered.
Most quality pairs of adult snowshoes are in the range of $140 to $250, while kids’ snowshoes start at about $70. A sturdy pair of poles is also a must to help with balance and stability. Make sure they have snow baskets attached! Not in the market to buy? No problem! Gearhouse offers affordable snowshoe rentals in the heart of Seattle.
Skill Check
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Snowshoeing in the PNW is about as easy as walking—if walking involved oversized foot paddles, the occasional faceplant in powder, and figuring out how to layer so you're not sweating one minute and freezing the next.
Where to go
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Skyline Lake
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Gold Creek Pond
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Franklin Falls