Nordic Pass - Hyak — Sunday, Mar. 10, 2019

We got to the parking lot about 9:45 and there was plenty of parking available. But it was PACKED when we returned from the trail, so I imagine we got there just before the ski rush. You’ll find the trailhead across the street from the parking lot. Go up the residential street and turn right at the fork. The trailhead is a break in the snow at a curve in the road; it’s unmarked. It looks like the trail should go straight ahead, but you should immediately go to the right; go down a steep bank and cross a small creek. You’ll have to cross a groomed ski trail. Watch for skiers and snowboarders coming from the left. My corgi puppy tried to herd a snowboarder... As you continue, watch for the blue diamonds. At one point they seem to disappear, so we got by following the yellow markers (even though the hike description says not to). We got to a giant open snow field, which we later realized was Hyak Lake. You can continue up a steepish trail past this, but it will take you to another groomed ski trail. Dogs are not allowed on groomed trails (we found this out after a stern talking-to from ski patrol). We returned to Hyak Lake, which was a great place to have some snacks and hot chocolate. All around a great snowshoe on a beautiful day!