Annette Lake Hiking Guide

Annette Lake

Distance

7.5 miles

ELEVATION GAIN

~1900 feet

Area

Snoqualmie, I-90

Difficulty

Moderate

Permits

NW Forest Pass

Hike Summary

With Washington’s winter snow dump, many trails have not been easily accessible or considered very safe in the last few months. Seeing the weather warm up, we decided to go for a jaunt in the woods and opted for a lower elevation hike, Annette Lake. This trail is conveniently close to Seattle and is typically an easy to moderate hike, however, today it was a tough slog. Overall, it is a lovely hike that still gives provides a workout, especially in the snow.

The Trail

The snow on the forest road made getting to the trailhead parking lot tough, but since we were about a quarter mile from the trailhead we just parked and walked the extra bit, which added about a half mile to our total. After hopping on the official trail, we came across a lovely log bridge that straddled a creek which had become a small waterfall surrounded by bright green moss. From there, the trail dips in and out of the tree cover, passing under power lines at the beginning and around two miles, a half dozen or so switchbacks present themselves. This is around the time it started getting tricky.

Avalanche Chutes

The first avalanche chute is easy enough to cross; the footprints are hard packed and we made it across in a breeze, all while enjoying a small view of the mountains. The second chute was similar, but across steeper terrain. The third chute was where it got a little iffy - do-able, but should we do it? Do it, we did. It was completely shaded so we trudged on. Then the fourth chute came into view and, after a little contemplation, we decided to turn back. We had started on the fourth chute but the soft snow sent us sinking down to our waists. Methinks this is a popular turn around spot as the footprints were sparse and less packed. Sure, the lake was right there - a mere half mile and we would have been there - but if one person in the party doesn’t feel safe then it’s time to turn around, no questions asked.

As we made our way back, the sun had warmed the snow and it become slushier. Even with my traction spikes, I still slid about and humbly fell to my knees every now and again. After crossing back over all the avalanche chutes we suddenly heard a big WOOOSH and knew that we had just heard an avalanche. We stopped, listened and looked into the trees for any sight of impact, but saw nothing and moved on. After a few more steps we heard another WOOOOOSH, only this time it was a bit longer. By the looks of it, it most likely occurred on the mountain on the opposite side of the trail we were on, so hopefully no one was caught in it. Even small avalanches can do damage and we had passed about a dozen people that continued to the lake - several of which had no gear at all, and presumably no knowledge of avalanches either.

We eventually found a sliver of sunshine about a mile from the trailhead and enjoyed a beer with a view of the mountains. After our not-so-successful adventure, we thought a trip to the North Bend Bakery was in order as there is nothing like a cookie and hot chocolate to end a day on the trail.

Tips for Annette Lake in Winter

Bring an extra pair of socks (or a whole outfit) and leave them in the car. The trail gets wet and muddy, even with waterproof shoes, so you’ll be grateful for dry socks afterwards.
Hike in the early morning. As the sun warms up the day, the snow gets softer (aka, more unsteady) and as hikers come through the trail the snow gets slushier.
Talk to your hiking partner(s) beforehand and decide if everyone is okay potentially not making it all the way. Have a plan.

PreparE for Your Hike

Gear

Whether or not I plan to use them, I make sure to pack micro spikes, trekking poles, gloves, down jacket, first-aid kit and headlamp. Gaiters are also helpful to keep the feet dry. In winter, I always dress (or pack) layers and bring along hand warmers, too (bless the person that invented those).

need to restock your pack? Check out my guide for Must-Have Hiking Gear!

Plan for snow

In addition to appropriate gear, it is important to know what to expect and plan ahead.

Check avalanche warnings: Visit NW Avalanche Center’s website and, for this trail, look up Snoqualmie Pass
Check the weather: In winter and even in early spring, this trail is snow-covered - hike with the proper snow gear. During any season, it gets real muddy after it rains.
Road conditions: Annette Lake trailhead is a short distance from the interstate, making it very accessible. In winter, you’ll likely have to park on the road to avoid getting stuck in snow (reports on WTA are great to plan ahead). It’s only a short walk to the trailhead!
Communicate: Avalanches happen. Falls on ice happen. Even on “easy” trails it is good practice to tell a friend where you are hiking, just to be safe.
GPS: Trails are harder to find under a big ol’ blanket of snow so a map is real handy. On AllTrails, you can download the map to your phone.

More info

View more hiking details for Annette Lake on Washington Trails Association or AllTrails.

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