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The Patrol Race

Snoqualmie Pass to Meany Lodge

Ski Touring Moderate

Distance
32 km
Ascent
1.5 km
Descent
1.6 km
Duration
1 day +
Low Point
863 m
High Point
1.4 km
Gradient
15˚
The Patrol Race Map

The Patrol Race is a historic route within within Washington State from Snoqualmie Pass to Meany Lodge. Starting in 1938 and discontinued in 1944 this would be a semi cross country route until arriving at Meany Lodge, never heard of said lodge? It turns out that this was the original ski resort in Washington state put together by the Mountaineers. Being that the place is only one T bar it is quite small but the history alone more than makes up for it. Starting in 2014 this race has come back with the help of Nigel Steere and we were fortunate to be a part of it. Below is the description of said route.

Description

Starting off at Summit West at Snoqualmie head west until reaching the Pacific Crest Trail. Following the snow covered trail where you will pass by Lodge Lake and before long hit the Snoqualmie Pass Nordic Trails. Once again you will join the PCT wrapping around the East sides of Silver and Tinkham Peaks then down to Mirror Lake.

Heading South from Mirror Lake you will once again make your way to the Pacific Crest Trail before hoping onto Forest Road 5044 in the valley. Once higher up the valley it is time to head back to the Pacific Crest Trail traveling over Yakima Pass.

It is a long slog following the PCT until finally reaching Stampede Pass where you are almost done with the trip. Now it is time to jump onto Forest Road 54 until it Y’s where you need to take a right. Soon enough you will reach a power line area where you need to head east until hopping onto Forest Road 4100-220. Soon enough you will reach Forest Road 41 where after following the low angled slopes down hill for a bit you can finally start ski descending again. After a few turns cut a hard left and you have finally arrived at Meany Lodge.

If you have the time make sure to stay the night there as this place has a real old school vibe. It is a part of history and really feels like one of the last family friendly ski hills in Washington state.

To see my trip in the area and more photos check out this link https://www.whereiskylemiller.com/snoqualmie-pass/patrol-race/

Difficulty

Moderate

Slopes become slightly steeper at around 25-30 degrees.

Low Exposure (E1)

1 out of 4

Exposure is limited to that of the slope itself. Getting hurt is still likely if the slope is steep and/or the snow is hard.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between February and April

Features

  • Ski Safari

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area