Salmon Ridge Snowshoe

With gentle terrain, easy river access and views of snow-laden peaks, this narrow river valley is an inviting snowshoe destination, especially for beginners.

From a quick jaunt down to the river’s edge to a full-day romp in the snow, the Salmon Ridge Sno-Park greets both novice and experienced snow-trekkers with a labyrinth of interconnecting paths, some groomed and some not, criss-crossing the floor of the Nooksack Valley. A worthy destination for snowshoers with time on their side is babbling White Salmon Creek, a tributary of the Nooksack River.

After strapping on your snowshoes in the parking area, follow Razor Hone Road (FR 3070) as it heads east. Travelling parallel to the North Fork of the Nooksack, keep your eyes open for animal tracks as you enjoy the relaxing sound of the passing water. Veering slightly away from the river, enter a winter wonderland of dark green hemlocks, likely covered in a heavy layer of snow.

White Salmon Creek is reached after about two miles of travel. From here, turn south to climb a small bench above the creek. After taking in unobstructed views of Goat Mountain to the north, return to the water’s edge and continue up the White Salmon Creek basin, picking the path of least resistance.

Choose a relaxing lunch spot along the creek, fire up your campstove and warm up with some soup or hot cocoa before returning the way you came.

WTA Pro Tip: Since the Salmon Ridge Sno-Park is at a relatively low elevation (just above 2,000 feet), contact the Glacier Public Service Center at (360) 599-2714 before your trip for a snow report.