Lake Evan / Schwitzer Loop via FR4020 & FR4021
With snow finally settling into the lower elevations, we headed up the Mountain Loop Highway for our first snowshoe outing of the season. Carol chose a loop to make sure we got a proper workout: up to Lake Evan and back via the Ashland Lakes Trail and FR4021.
We drove the MLH to Forest Road 4020 and made it about three‑quarters of a mile before deepening snow forced us to park. Started hiking at 08:15 from 1,460 ft and followed FR4020 toward the Boardman Lake trailhead. About a mile in, the snow deepened enough that we strapped on the snowshoes and continued upward.
Reached Lake Evan at 11:15. The lake was partially frozen and quiet under early‑season snow. From the lake trailhead, we turned left onto FR4020 and immediately encountered the most difficult section of the day. Snow‑laden saplings were bent across the road in endless waves, slowing progress and requiring constant maneuvering. Steve had a snowshoe separate from its binding along the route, which made travel more difficult for him, so Carol and I continued ahead compacting the snow to reduce post‑holing for his snowshoe‑less leg.
After roughly 1.5 miles, we reached our route at just under 2,600 ft and headed cross‑country toward the Ashland Lakes Trail.
We arrived at the Ashland Lakes trailhead around 14:30 and began descending via FR4021, which was much more straightforward. FR4021 eventually reconnected with FR4020, and we followed it back to the car, arriving just as daylight faded.
Stats:
- Distance: 10.21 miles
- Time: 8.5 hours
- Cumulative ascent: 1,329 ft
- High point: ~2,800 ft
- Snow depth at high point: ~18 inches
No mountain views on this loop, but the quiet forest and fresh snow made for a satisfying early‑season outing. No micro spikes needed — snowshoes, poles with baskets, waterproof boots, and tall gaiters were sufficient.
Naming note: Maps (Gaia, Green Trails) and Dan Nelson’s Snowshoe Routes guide list the lake as Lake Evan, but the trailhead sign reads Evans.
Additional Info: After submitting this report and checking the Green Trails No. 110 Map, I realized this route is listed on the backside of the map under Winter Recreation as Schwitzer Loop.
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