Trip Date: March 17, 2007
Nason–Smith Ski Traverse: Nason Creek to Lichtenberg Pass to Smith Brook
Nason Creek Valley
Lake Valhalla
Lichtenberg Pass
Smith Brook Meadow
Trip Report Summary
Region: North-Central Washington Cascades
Sub-Region: Upper Wenatchee Mountains
Area: Henry M. Jackson Wilderness
Starting Point: PCT-Northbound Trailhead at Stevens Pass on Highway 2 (Elev. 4000 feet)
Way Points: Stevens Pass Railroad Grade & Nason Creek & Lake Valhalla & Lichtenberg Pass & Smith Brook Meadow & Smith Brook Road (ski tour)
High Point: Lichtenberg Pass (Elev. 5100 feet)
Ending Point: Smith Brook Roadhead on Highway 2 (Elev. 3200 feet)
Approximate Stats: 10 miles traveled; 1400 feet gained; 2200 feet lost; 6.9 hours elapsed.
Related Posts
>>> Nason—Smith Ski Traverse – May 21, 2022
>>> Nason—Smith Ski Traverse – April 18, 2021
>>> Nason—Smith Ski Traverse – April 28, 2018
>>> Nason—Smith Ski Traverse – April 6, 2013
>>> Nason—Smith Ski Traverse – March 19, 2011
Full Trip Report
On Saturday, Peter, Matt D, Barry, Eileen, Chris VB, and Randy O joined me for a St. Patrick’s Day edition of the Nason-Smith Traverse. This classic ski tour starts at Stevens Pass, goes over Lichtenberg Pass, and then down Smith Brook to Highway 2. A short car shuttle closes the gap.
- Group at Nason Creek
Given the grim weather forecast for Saturday, we were surprised and delighted to encounter mild, sunny conditions at Stevens Pass. Everyone was down to shirt sleeves within 20 minutes of skiing. It appeared that Irish eyes were smiling at us as we made our way up the Nason Creek valley to Lake Valhalla.
- Skinning below Lichtenberg Mountain
- Crossing Lake Valhalla
Before reaching the lake, however, clouds and wind were moving in. A light rain started just after we stopped at Lichtenberg Pass for a late lunch.
- Skinning To Lichtenberg Pass
Our descent from the pass featured intermittent rain, but this was more than offset by some excellent snow conditions for telemarking. We had a few inches of new snow over a firm base, very much like springtime conditions. One glade demanded some yo-yo runs, so we gave in—and wished we had time for even more.
- Jim Skiing Down Glade (photo By Chris)
An easy kick-and-glide down Smith Brook Road got us to our car just as a heavy rain began. All in all, the rain played in insignificant part in a wonderful day with a great group!
Equipment Comments
For more information regarding the various equipment that I used for this particular trip and that I typically use for this type of trip, see my gear reviews on the following pages:
>>> Backcountry Telemark Ski Touring Gear
>>> Backcountry Ski & Snowshoe Packs
>>> Wintertime Comfort Accessories
Route Map & Profile
…
…
Photo Gallery
Click to enlarge…
