Copper Creek Hut Snowshoe — Saturday, Mar. 11, 2023

Only the very lowest parking area was open with room for about 12 vehicles. The road up there was not plowed. The snow wasn't deep, but it was super slushy and most vehicles had chains. We saw at least one 2 wheel drive truck sliding all over the place even with chains. 

The trail was not groomed for skiing until the ~2.7 mile mark (might be from the snow park lots not the actual parking). We did see the groomer running, but it was only doing the upper trail. We clocked 5.5 miles each way to the hut, 1,475 ft elevation gain. With overnight packs and snow shoes the whole way we did up in 2.5 hrs and down in 1.75. 

There wasn't much in terms of views on the way up, expect for a glimpse of the Olympics on a clear day. The trail was a nice wide logging road that was mostly tree lined. At the hut you can see a sliver of the top of Rainier and some other mountains. 

The hut was well stocked and very well thought out! It is open to the public in the day and reservation holders at night (only $15!). It had hot tap water, cold filtered water, lots of pots, pans, dishes, even wine glasses. A bunch of games, some books, a bit table, a few couches, a nice hot gas fireplace, solar lights, a mud room, some benches outside, a cupboard for extra food, tea kettles. Upstairs there are a bunch of beds and some thick sleeping mats. I would say with a full 14 people it would be a bit crowded feeling, but cozy. 

A little over a mile up from the hut is a great Rainer view and lots of other beautiful mountains too! We went for a sunset hike up there and it was incredible! My track for that one is a little off because we tried the loop first, but decided to turn back and stick with the broken trail, not end up in a tree well when it was almost dark out. 

More Information on this Trip Report

• https://www.gaiagps.com/public/q5Km4aBKqfT2Bopo6xpPGi9t
• https://www.gaiagps.com/datasummary/track/7ad4c345-6f7c-42cf-8a23-2e9008af9fdd/