Basic Snowshoe - Cutthroat Lake

We all found parking at the junction of Hwy 20 and the spur road to the summer trailhead, where there is parking for maybe 6 vehicles max if people park considerately, and park facing outwards.  We were a mix of groups coming from both the west and the east, and we worked our timing well.  We donned snowshoes and headed up the road in the cold morning shade, looking to get warm.  

From the summer trailhead, the path narrowed.  I had expected we would be breaking lots of trail given the recent snow dump, but between skiers this morning, and a fair amount yesterday, we mainly followed in a skin track up the sometimes narrow corridor.  Since this felt too narrow for comfortable snowshoeing, we ended up taking off snowshoes and booting instead,  only sinking a few inches for the most part.  After a shy 2 miles of trail, we ended up at the trail junction, leading us shortly to the newly constructed bridge over Cutthroat Creek.  Thank you Methow Valley Trails Collaborative!  

After the bridge, it was maybe a quarter mile till we popped out at the lakeshore.  Given the short days and low angle of the sun, we were in the shade there, so dressed warmly for lunch.  And requisite photo opportunities!  

For the way back, we donned snowshoes to play in the fluffy snow between the lake and the creek crossing.  Conditions got warmer once we were back in the sun, and the way went easily with conversation.  Many thanks to a great group for making it such a super fun day!!!