Cathedral Rock — Tuesday, Jun. 23, 2009

Snoqualmie Region > Salmon La Sac/Teanaway

We wanted to see if the trail was open to Cathedral Pass so we called the Cle Elum Ranger for trail conditions. We were advised that "ice axe and crampons" would be needed and that Squaw Lake (before the pass) was 100% frozen. We opted to hike Hyas Lake instead but when we got to the trailhead (both hike trailheads are in close proximity to each other) we decided to try for Cathedral Pass anyway. Good trail and steady uphill grade lead us to the intersection with the Trail Creek trail at about 4700' where we encountered substantial snow patches that were very consolidated and easy to traverse. The snow patches continued to Squaw Lake which was 100% thawed and very pleasant. We continued for about another 1/2 mile or so until the snow pretty much obliterated the trail. Running a little short on time we turned around at this point. Those with basic routefinding skills should be able to access the pass following the straight northwest heading without much difficulty. Probably 2-3 more weeks before the snow is gone, more than that to dry the trail. No ice axe or crampons would be required to access the pass as far as we could tell, although boots and trekking poles were handy. Anyone wearing sneakers would probably get wet feet. Stream crossings were frequent but not much trouble even with the relatively high water levels. Many of these streams will be gone later in the year. The last 12 miles of dirt road on the way to the trailhead was pretty rough and prevented making very good travel time. There also was a creek crossing on the road that was maybe 1 1/2 feet deep, no problem for trucks or SUV's, iffy with a little sedan. There were a few flys at the lake although they didn't seem hungry, no mosquitos up high, more down at the trailhead.