Are you in search of a winter adventure that combines breathtaking views & a thrilling outdoor experience? Look no further than Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie Pass in Washington State. Known for its stunning beauty & tranquil atmosphere, Gold Creek Pond is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts eager to embark on a snowshoe adventure. In this blog post, we will delve into the magical world of snow-covered trails, glistening landscapes, & the unforgettable experiences that await.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links.
This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate link.
You may read my full disclosure policy here.

Quick Trail Stats for Gold Creek Pond

📈 AllTrails rating: Easy

🥾 Length: 2.8 miles RT

🏔️ Elevation gain: 100 feet

✅ Sno-Park Permit required in the winter; Northwest Forest Pass required during warmer seasons

🐶 Leashed dogs are welcome

The Perfect Winter Adventure for Any Outdoor Lover

Snowshoeing at Gold Creek Pond is an exhilarating way to explore the snowy trails & immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. The sport is accessible to all skill levels & ages, making it a perfect activity for families or solo adventurers. Snowshoes provide the necessary flotation to walk on top of deep snow, allowing you to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach. Whether you are a seasoned snowshoer or a first-timer, the flat terrain of Gold Creek Pond makes it suitable for all abilities. What’s more, it is situated in an area that is safe from avalanches which is a common danger for many trails within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

Directions to Gold Creek Pond Snowshoe Trail

Located just an hour away from Seattle, the trailhead to Gold Creek Pond is near the popular Summit at Snoqualmie Ski Resort. Take Exit 54 off of I-90, head north to cross under the overpass, & turn right onto a narrow paved road (NF-4832). Be cautious as this road that runs parallel to the freeway can oftentimes be terribly icy. If your vehicle doesn’t have any winter traction, I highly recommend you do not attempt to venture any further. Unfortunately, I have witnessed many cars, even those with all-wheel-drive systems, get stuck in the ditches far too many times.

After about one mile in, you will find the trailhead with portable toilets nearby. During warmer months, the gates may remain open to NF-144 so that vehicles can park closer to Gold Creek Pond. However, when there is a lot of snowfall, the gates may close & you will have to park along the main road. Starting your hike from here adds an additional 0.5 miles on the old forest service road. But because the snow is usually compact from heavy foot traffic, it is quick & easy to traverse on.

Walking Through a PNW Winter Wonderland

The Gold Creek Pond snowshoe trail covers 2.8 miles in a loop, granting adventurers the opportunity to fully embrace the winter landscape. The path is well-marked with clear signs, making it easy to navigate even when covered in snow. From cross-country skiers to families pulling children on sleds, you will find a variety of outdoor lovers on this trail. As you wander through the snow, immerse yourself in picturesque views of the trees, mountains, & the tranquil pond itself.

Picnic tables on the southern side of Gold Creek Pond make great spots for snacking & to rest your legs. To the northwest lies Kendall Peak which is another great trail for snowshoeing. Furthermore towards the northeast, you can spot Rampart Ridge, Chikamin Peak, & Alta Mountain. The pond itself is about a one mile trek as you cross over several wooden bridges.

For those looking for a longer excursion, head back into the forest on the east side of the pond. There is a small trail that branches off the Gold Creek Pond loop & connects to a road used by locals. Please respect private property signage as you make your way towards the Lower Gold Creek Basin. At approximately the 2 mile mark, you will arrive at Heli’s Pond with a beautiful valley view. This also makes a good turnaround point to return back to Gold Creek Pond.

What to Pack for Snowshoeing at Gold Creek Pond

Winter conditions in the Pacific Northwest can turn unexpectedly throughout the day, so you should always prepare yourself with the right gear. To easily adjust to fluctuating temperatures, it is best to dress in layers. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are ideal for protecting your feet from the cold, snowy terrain. You may also want to invest in a reliable pair of microspikes for extra traction on ice. Check out my blog post on winter gear recommendations for a more in-depth list of my favorite adventure essentials.

Winter hikes typically take more time as you navigate your way through snow & ice covered trails. Also keep in mind that snowshoeing itself hinders your normal gait & may take you longer to complete a hike. As the sun sets earlier in the day, you’ll want to pack some basic hiking essentials:

• Headlamp
• Handheld GPS system
• Hand warmers
• First aid kit
• Protein-filled snacks & warm water in a thermos
• Portable backpacking stove
• Hiking daypack to carry all the winter gear
• A map & fully charged phone in case of emergencies

Angella’s Travel Tips

• As with any outdoor activity in the Pacific Northwest, you want to prepare for the unexpected. Before you head out, check recent trail reports & weather updates to ensure a safe & enjoyable experience.
• When the main gates are closed, vehicles must be parked along the side of NF-4832 with a Sno-Park Permit. This main road is very narrow & icy in the winter, causing cars to easily slide off into the side ditches. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with appropriate winter tires or snow chains. Additionally, it might even be worthwhile to pack a shovel in your trunk!
• The portable toilets at the trailhead are usually not well maintained & sometimes closed off completely. I recommend stopping by the Summit at Snoqualmie Pass to use their heated bathrooms with flushable toilets. Fortunately, it is located at Exit 52 right before you reach Gold Creek Pond.
• In an effort to preserve the wild in our ‘wild’erness, it is important to be conscious of the effects our actions may have on public lands, the animals, & even other nature enthusiasts. The 7 Leave No Trace principles provide a framework for enjoying the outdoors while leaving the smallest footprint possible. Learn more about how you can apply the Leave No Trace principles on your next adventure to help protect the beautiful places we all love so much.