Just a follow-up to Mule Deer's Trip Report. The Overlook access road was groomed for XC skiing this morning, and WSDOT has plowed a turnout that can park about 6 cars. This morning's conditions were very good, given that it was raining on the snow yesterday afternoon.
The trail from the summer parking lot to the overlook varies between ice, packed snow, with some afternoon postholing.
The views were great in the near winter conditions.
Not sure how much longer SR 20 over Washington Pass will remain open this fall. East of the pass, three small avalanches have reached the road above the hairpin.
Comments
Mt Mike on Washington Pass Overlook
How does one find out what places are groomed for XC skiing? I didn't realize the overlook was sometimes groomed. I assume you need a Sno-Park pass?
Posted by:
Mt Mike on Nov 11, 2025 08:10 PM
Rolan on Washington Pass Overlook
To determine grooming for Sno-Parks, I use the Washington State Parks webpage for Sno-Parks. For the Washington Pass Overlook, the grooming was done by Methow Trails. This early season groomed trail does not require a Sno-Park permit, nor a ski pass from Methow Trails.
Of course things change when SR 20 is closed for the winter. Then, the XC ski grooming stops at the overlook. The nearest Sno-Park is the Silver Star Sno-Park, where the road is initially gated on the east side. This Sno-Park is primarily for snowmobiles, once snow has accumulated at the Sno-Park. If you are into irregular groomed XC routes, there are other options. Sometimes Cutthroat Rd is snowmobile groomed by individuals for skiing, as is Klipchuck Road, later in the fall/early winter.
Posted by:
Rolan on Nov 11, 2025 08:26 PM