Overview
Chair Peak is an easy access day climb located amongst the ‘Snoqualmie Peaks’ a stone’s throw (2 miles) away from Denny Mountain, the top of Alpental Ski Resort. With grandeur and a short approach, it is one of the most popular in the area. At the foot of Chair peak to the northeast is Snow Lake, the largest alpine lake in the area. Beyond that through thick forest is the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River. To the east of Chair Peak is a direct view of Snoqualmie Mtn. To the south are Bryant Peak, The Tooth and Denny Mtn, all lined up like a set of incisors.
During the summer, the Snoqualmie area is a popular destination for day hikers and a few peak baggers, but in the winter Chair Peak transforms into a hidden frozen treasure. The North Face offers a four-pitch mixed route on steep exposed snow, ice and in some spots, rock. Chair Peak and the Snoqualmie Pass area are ambushed by heavy snowfall each winter. Every peak, lake and tree becomes engulfed, which makes the area just stunning to travel through. Chair Peak is another gem in the Cascade Range that proves once again why Washington is an intense mountaineering state.
The entire basin between Alpental Ski Resort and Chair Peak is a sought after backcountry ski destination, but extremely avalanche prone. Many fatal slides have occurred through the years. To attempt this winter climb, a well-rounded knowledge of snow conditions and avalanche potential is mandatory. Check weather and snow reports, test the snow pack on route, and follow the contour of the approach with the least amount of time spent on or around avalanche inclined slopes. Carry becons, probes and shovels, and most importantly, know how to use them.
Getting There
Chair Peak is located in the heart of the Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest near Snoqualmie Pass. From Interstate 90, take Exit 52 and head north to the parking lots at Alpental Ski Resort. At 3100 feet, the trailhead(s) are across the street from the ski resort on trail 1013 to Snow Lake. During the winter, look for tracks made by snowshoers and backcountry skiers.
Follow the trail through trees with a few open spots to the end of the valley at 1 1/2 miles and 3700 feet. Climb up the northern slope to the ridgeline at 4800 feet, then head west to the base. During the winter it is safer to traverse the right side of the valley to reach the ridge. Heading directly up the end of the basin through slots are in avalanche paths. You will recognize Chair Peak by the steep North Face.
Red Tape
There are no permits, fees, closures, limitations or parking passes required. The Forest Service expects hikers and backpackers to respect "The Responsibility of Freedom." Do not camp on Snow Lake’s edge because there is heavy day use. Find an established spot to set up, and use stoves, no fires.
When To Climb
During the summer, the best months to climb are from May through October. To climb the frozen North Face, climb from December through March. Check weather reports for favorable cold, clear conditions.
Camping
The valley between Alpental and Snow Lake is popular with hikers and campers even in the winter. A favorable spot to camp would be near Snow Lake because it is right next to Chair Peak. Find a spot away from the lakes edge to keep impact low and to allow room for day hikers.
During the winter, look for an area away from avalanche paths, preferably on the ridge just south of Snow Lake in-between Chair Peak and Snoqualmie Mt.
Lodging can be found at Best Western and Hyak Lodge at Snoqualmie at the Summit.
Mountain Conditions
For weather reports check the National Weather Service or On The Snow and refer to Alpental at the Summit.
Be aware that during the winter Alpental may blast for avalanches near the vicinity of the ski resort. If you climb after a heavy snowfall (not advised), contact the resort at (425)-434-7669 to find out if they will be blasting.
For snow and avalanche information check the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center or here.
Click here for a daily resort cam at the Summit-at-Snoqualmie.
Click here for Snoqualmie Pass road conditions and webcams.
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