Cross-Country Skiing Around Highway 2

The Lake Wenatchee and Chiwawa Sno-Parks offer many ways for visitors to get out and play in the snow. Both located north of Leavenworth off Highway 2, you’ll find trails groomed with a skate lane and set track as well as areas for snowshoeing.

Lake Wenatchee: Most trails are appropriate for all levels of ability, featuring moderate descents and climbs and short loops. For those seeking a longer trek, try the Nason Ridge View – 14 miles leading through the Kahler Glen Golf Course and US Forest Service Lands. The trails are groomed Thursdays through Sundays and a sno-park permit is required.

Chiwawa: Here you will find trails varying greatly in difficulty level. The most scenic of the trails at Chiwawa is the 5-mile See and Ski Trail. It starts off with 1.5 miles through the forest, emerges for a loop along the beautiful Wenatchee River, and ends by looping back through the forest.  If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, try the Flying Loop Trail and be prepared for the 1.5 mile climb followed by an exhilarating mile-long plunge.

Note: This winter, trails at both parks may be closed for removal of trees with root rot. Make sure to contact Lake Wenatchee State park at 509.763.3101 for updates on conditions, or to request to receive updates by email.  See the Lake Wenatchee and Chiwawa State Park websites for grooming updates.

Be sure to check winter weather conditions and carry your ten essentials: whistle, map, compass, sunscreen, flashlight and extra batteries, fire starter, first aid kit, pocket knife, waterproof matches, and extra food and clothing. It’s also good to leave a copy of your travel plans with a responsible person. Find weather and avalanche info here.

Photo credit: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/GatineauParkSkiing19Dec07.JPG