Learn about snowshoe basics, snow safety and park history
OLYMPIA – Dec. 17, 2018 – Washington State Parks invites the public to participate in family-friendly, guided snowshoe hikes in January and February at Lake Wenatchee State Park, just 25 miles east of Stevens Pass.
Snowshoe hikes start promptly at 1 p.m. Jan. 6, 12, 21 and 26 and Feb. 2, 10, 16 and 24. On Jan. 1, the park will have a special First Day Hike, which starts at 11 a.m. Meet at the North Reservation Booth at Lake Wenatchee State Park, 21588 State Route 207, Leavenworth. (Driving directions.)
Snowshoers should arrive early enough to prepare for the 1 p.m. departure, including obtaining snowshoe rentals. A limited number of snowshoes are available to rent with advance reservations.
Lake Wenatchee State Park is an ideal destination for first-time and experienced snowshoers.
“This is a fantastic hike for first-timers in snowshoes or for hikers looking for a mellow adventure through a frosty winter wonderland,” said Amanda Fisher, senior park aide at Lake Wenatchee State Park. “The hike is easy to moderate with varying views, plenty of opportunities for snowball fights and memorable photos.”
Hike duration depends on participant preference. The shortest option is a 1.4-mile route; the longest is a 2.4-plus-mile loop. The group will stop at a designated intersection to orient those choosing the longer route, while Park staff will continue leading the shorter route. Each hike will take a halfway break at the North Beach for a group photo and a chance to grab a snack and explore.
Participants should wear layered clothing and boots and bring snowshoes, poles, snacks and water.
For more information about the snowshoe hikes, including rentals, call 509-763-3101.
All hikes are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather, road access or trail concerns. Participants should contact the park after 9 a.m. on the day of the hike for status updates.
Parking permits, passes required:
- Daily Sno-Park Permit and Discover Pass
OR
- Seasonal Sno-Park Permit and Groomed Trail Sticker
The Discover Pass will not be needed on Tuesday, Jan. 1, which is the first Washington State Parks free day of 2019 and one of many First Day Hikes happening at parks across the state. In addition, Monday, Jan. 21, is also a free day, in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. Sno-Park permits will still be required.
For more information about Sno-Park permits, groomed trail stickers and how to purchase these, visit the Washington State Parks Winter Recreation web page: www.parks.state.wa.us/Winter
About Lake Wenatchee State Park
Lake Wenatchee State Park is nestled into one of Washington’s most unspoiled and scenic recreation areas. The 489-acre park includes 12,600 feet of waterfront on Lake Wenatchee at the head of the Wenatchee River. The park offers year round recreational opportunities: swimming, boating, windsurfing, fishing and hiking are some popular summer activities. Winter brings up to four feet of snow and miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoe trails and a sled hill. For more information, visit: parks.state.wa.us/535/Lake-Wenatchee.
News media contacts:
Amanda Fisher, Lake Wenatchee State Park, (509) 763-3101
Toni Droscher, Communications Office, (360) 902-8604
_________________________________________________________________________________
About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 18-080