Commonwealth Falls

Getting There

Park at the Summit West lot, carefully crossing the summit access road to reach the trailhead.  Don't be tempted to park at the cleared area at the top of NF-58 (the old Snoqualmie Pass Road).  Despite appearances, that is a no parking area.

On the Trail

The trailhead begins on the north side of I-90 at the northbound Pacific Crest Trailhead. Travel along Commonwealth Creek only as far as Commonwealth Falls, to limit the elevation gain to 500 feet for this easy difficulty trip. For a longer trip up the basin, select the moderate difficulty Commonwealth Basin route.

Information for leaders

Permit information

As of 2017, the Snoqualmie Ranger District considers Mountaineers trips and courses to be "nominal use". Leaders should print and copy this designation letter to show rangers they may see on trail or carry a digital copy on their phone.

• Suitable Activities: Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Category: Beginner
• Seasons: January, February, March
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 2.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 500 ft
• High Point: 3,500 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
  Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Snoqualmie Ranger District (MBSNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12