Overcrowded in summer months, this trail is too often overlooked in the winter. Sure, the route requires a modest hike up a snowy road before getting to the trailhead, but that's the perfect way for snowshoers to warm up and swing into stride. The trail ascends through open fir and hemlock forests, dips low and rolls alongside a pretty mountain stream a time or two, and finally deposits dedicated snowshoers on the shores of a wide, pretty alpine lake nestled below a steep, avalanche-ravaged ridge. The views from the lake basin include looks up to Bandera Mountain and Pratt Mountain, and east to Granite Mountain.
The trail is easy to find, although it can be a bit difficult to follow if the snow is crusty and slick. Be sure to have good cleats on both heel and toe to ensure a solid "bite" on the crusty snow that is often the curse of this trail.

Start up FR 9030, signed as the access to Talapus Lake trailhead, as it rolls up through a series of small switchbacks. The road offers good views upslope toward the summit of Bandera Mountain thanks to several open clearcut areas that flank the road. The 2.5 miles of the road hike goes fast. At the end of the road, in the wide parking area of the Talapus Lake trailhead, enjoy stunning views of Granite Mountain before starting up the narrow trail.

Usually you will have the trail to yourself from this point on. Skiers often kick their way up the road as far as the trailhead, but few of those folks care to struggle with their long skis on the winding, forest trail. With snowshoes, you will have no problems with the twisting, turning trail as it rolls around trees and rocks. At 3.5 miles, after a mile of snowshoeing on the narrow trail, the path dips into a valley to follow close alongside Talapus Creek the last 0.75 mile to the lake.

The lake basin is the most likely place to find snowslides, so be aware of avalanche potential as you approach the lake. If the avalanche hazard was reported as moderate or higher for this part of the Cascades, it's best to skip the trail component of this outing. The roadway makes a nice, gentle outing on snowshoes without the danger of being swept away.

Author’s Rating: Most Difficult
Hikers should have good experience and familiarity with snowshoes. This route features sections that will need to be evaluated for avalanche safety every time. Trails climb considerably and may include climbing to ridge tops. Traverses across forested or open slopes may be required. An ability to self-arrest with an ice axe or trekking pole recommended.