Lake 22 : A Winter Wonderland Trail
Trail report for Lake 22 in winter
Lake 22 is tucked away in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington. It’s an hour long drive from Seattle.
Last weekend my friends were all hyped about hiking this trail in winter, and I thought they were nuts! I mean, me and snow? Not exactly a match made in heaven. Of course they talked me into it, and I gave in!
Seriously, best decision ever. It’s like hiking in Switzerland, but without the airfare!
We got to the trailhead early-ish around 8 am, which is early for a weekend. We luckily snagged a parking spot because, even in winter, this place is popular.
The first part of the hike winds through this amazing forest — huge trees covered in snow.
It felt like we’d stepped right into Narnia!
We wore our microspikes, which are a must. We saw a few people trying to hike without them, and they were slipping and sliding all over the place. I wouldn’t recommend it!
As we hiked higher, the trees started to open up.
Finally the moment came and we got to the lake.
Words & pictures don’t do justice to how beautiful it looked. Frozen solid, covered in snow, reflecting the mountains, it was postcard-perfect!
We just stood there for a few minutes, soaking it all in. It was so quiet, and peaceful.
We walked around the lake a bit carefully, took a ton of pictures, and enjoyed the well deserved snack while adoring how beautiful the backdrop was. It really does feel like a different world up there.
Honestly, if you’re looking for a beautiful winter hike near Seattle, go to Lake 22. Just make sure you dress warm, wear good hiking boots, and bring those microspikes! And maybe a thermos of hot chocolate or hot tea! Trust me, you won’t regret it.
After this amazing winter hike, I’m totally hooked! I can’t wait to do more such hikes.
I really enjoyed this article by Anne Bonfert where she shares her experience hiking in a snowstorm.
I haven’t yet tried snowshoeing but reading this article by RT inspired me to try it next.
