This is an unusual snowshoe outing in that, except in periods of heavy snow, the lower section of the trail may require hikers to strap their snowshoes to their backs while they hike a mile or two up to the snow. The Lower Lena Lake Trail doesn't offer panoramic vistas, but there is a pretty forest surrounding the route, with a nice creek basin to cross and the beautiful lake to enjoy. Beyond the lake, a short excursion to the Valley of Silent Men leads snowshoers into a cathedral-like forest of massive trees, flanking a clear, tumbling stream in a narrow valley. The ancient trees sport drooping beards of emerald green lichens and mosses, and the stream is lined with a lacy network of ice.

In heavy snow years, a thin layer of snow may be found at the trailhead (800 feet), but generally you will have to leave your ‘shoes on your packs and start up the trail in your boots. The trail climbs steeply, though, and shortly after crossing Lena Creek at 1.5 miles, the snow deepens. When it is too deep, or too slick, to hike in boots, strap on the snowshoes and continue.

The trail tapers into a gentle climb at 1.6 miles and a quiet, serene forest surrounds the route. At 3 miles, the trail rolls along the west side of Lower Lena Lake (2050 feet). Follow the lakeshore north, and turn right to cross the first inlet stream at the north end of the lake. Head east along the second inlet, East Fork Lena Creek, as it climbs into the lush ancient forest of the Valley of Silent Men. Trail signs indicate this is the climbers' route to The Brothers, but generally you won't be going that far. Snowshoe up the bottom of the valley, following the trail corridor as it weaves through the trees, for up to 1.5 miles from the lake before turning back.

The valley makes a great place to stop for a leisurely picnic. Sit and enjoy the quiet music of the stream tumbling over icy rocks. Listen to the songs of the birds flitting through the branches of the trees above: gray jays, as always, dominate the air when there is any chance they can beg--or steal--a meal from hikers. Relax in the soothing peace that covers all visitors to these cathedral forests, which are made all the more peaceful by the quiet of winter.

Author’s Rating: Backcountry
These routes follow topography rather than trails or roads. Skill with a map and compass is essential. A variety of conditions may be encountered along backcountry routes, including steep elevation gains and losses. These routes require complete competence in winter survival skills, avalanche and snow condition evaluation and some basic mountaineering skills.