Four seasons of family-friendly fun... without the crowds!
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North Columbia Skiing & Snowshoeing ![]() ![]() ![]()
Downhill Skiing A. 49 Degrees North Downhill skiing, snowmobile trails and cross country skiing. Located 10 miles east of Chewelah on Flowery Trail Road. Cross Country Skiing, Skating & Snowshoeing Washington State Sno-Parks - The State of Washington maintains a series of great Sno-Parks across the state, three of which are in our area in the Colville National Forest. These Parks feature groomed trails, plowed parking, and bathroom facilities. Users are required to purchase a parking permit which can be had at any Forest Service or Park Service office and at ski shops in the area. Trails are groomed for cross country skiing and skating as indicated. Snowshoers use the groomed trails to access the backcountry as well. B. Sherman Pass Sno-Park The Kettle Crest Trail, most easily accessed on Sherman Pass and Boulder-Deer Creek Pass, is a premier trail system. The main trail, running north-south, generally sticks to the high elevations, with spur trails coming in east and west which quickly drop down into the mountain valleys. Snow adventurers can use trails both north and south of the highway. Skiers and snowshoers have many miles of backcountry to explore from this access point, and the one at Boulder-Deer Creek. In addition, a snow shelter south of the highway is available for overnighters. To make reservations, call the Colville National Forest at any of the numbers below. This particular trip is recommended for experienced backcountry skiers only. From Colville, take Hwy 395 northwest through Kettle Falls and on to Lake Roosevelt where Hwy 20 splits off to the left at Barney's Junction. Follow Hwy 20 to the summit, a distance of 16 miles. C. Boulder Deer Creek Sno-Park This is the northern access to the Kettle Crest Trail described under Sherman Peak above. 37 km of trails run both north and south of the highway. The main trail on the south side is the easiest for beginning and intermediate skiers and is maintained for skaters. From Colville, drive north on Hwy 395 through Kettle Falls, bearing right at Barney's Junction and continuing north toward the border about 14 miles. Turn west on the Boulder-Deer Creek Road, which is well-marked, and continue up to the summit. D. Geophysical Sno-Park This Sno-park is quite accessible and features tracks and a skate lane running 10 km. From Northport, drive 8 miles north on Leclerk Creek Road. Take a right on Indian Creek Road (County Road 3029) and continue another 2 miles. E. Frater Lake The Colville National Forest grooms a number of trails both north and south of Highway 20 at Frater Lake. Volunteers built a lovely warming hut on the west side of Frater Lake, a short jaunt from the parking area. This is a favorite of local skiers and a great place to learn the sport. The original trails have been expanced in the past few years, offering plenty of space for more advanced skiers to stretch out. No fees. Other Suggestions The sites above provide groomed trails, but Northeastern Washington offers many opportunities for "off-road" snow fun. Families sled, snow shoe, and cross country ski on local golf courses, snow permitting. And backcountry enthusiasts have many miles of countryside to explore. Contact the Colville National Forest for maps and suggestions. For more information, contact the Colville National Forest at: Map Metrics produces a variety of accurate, functional and attractive maps of the region. Welcome to NortheasternWashington.com All rights reserved. Copyright 2008-2010.
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