Have you wanted to try snowshoeing but felt unsure how to go about it?
Great news: Washington State Parks will offer guided snowshoe hikes this winter at Lake Easton State Park, off I-90 between North Bend and Ellensburg. (That should be a little over an hour’s drive from Seattle in good conditions.)
There aren’t as many guided snowshoe hikes available this year because of COVID restrictions, so expect these to fill up fast.
The Lake Easton excursions will start at 11 a.m and 1 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Lake Easton interpretive staff will lead hikes up to 90 minutes and 2 miles long on moderate terrain. They will be family-friendly and accessible to beginners.
Groups will be limited to 10 people, per health restrictions. Participants must wear face coverings and practice social distancing with people outside their household.
Call 509-925-1943 to reserve. People without reservations will be accepted if spots are open.
Other guidelines: Arrive early enough to prepare for the 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. departure; bring snowshoes (rental information in this article), trekking poles, layered clothing, boots, snacks and water.
If there’s not enough snow, a “boot hike” will be offered. Cancellations may occur due to road closures or other winter access issues.
The guided snowshoe hikes are free, but Sno-Park permits are required to park.
This story was first published on Jan. 14, 2021.
More winter fun in Seattle’s Child:
8 cool places for ice skating in 2021
Parent’s guide to sledding at Hyak Sno-Park
Best ski areas you can drive to from Seattle
Hiking with a surly teen and tween