Wenatchee Crest Snowshoe (Blewett Pass)

The Wenatchee Crest near Blewett Pass is an ideal entry-level snowshoe, thanks to its modest elevation gain and panoramic views from the ridgetop. And even with such an easily accessible trailhead, the crowds are often minimal.

Starting at the north end of the parking area, the route follows Forest Road 800, climbing moderately through forest to a junction half a mile up. Take the left-hand fork to continue along the ridge; the right hand fork drops down into Scotty Creek.

Beyond the junction the road levels out as it meanders along the north side of the ridge dividing Scotty Creek and Swauk Creek, sometimes near the crest, other times traversing shady basins. The forest is mostly fir and hemlock with scattered western larch, looking bare without their needles. Along the way there are numerous clearcuts with views out to Tronson Ridge, the Peshastin Creek Valley, and back to Diamond Head.

Continuing another mile, the road makes a sharp bend to the left and traverses toward Point 4411 with views of the Stuarts and an occasional glimpse of Mount Rainier. After another quarter of a mile, just past the point, come to a large clearcut with an unobstructed panorama of the Teanaway Mountains and the entire Stuart Range - all the way from Miller Peak to the Peshastin Valley. This makes a good lunch stop and turnaround point.

Extend Your Route: Continue on to a saddle where the road forks again. Take the left fork for nicer views. Either way, return to your starting point by the same way you came.