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Mirror Lake in the Snow
By Kelsey Samsel | Hiking
We recently had the chance to hike Mirror Lake in the snow. If you haven’t read our post about hiking Mirror Lake in the summer, you can find it here. Since our summer post, the trailhead has been moved to the Skibowl parking lot. The signage is very clear and there’s a decent-sized designated parking lot for the hike.
Overall this hike is only moderately difficult and most people would be able to do it. It starts out on flat ground and then about halfway to the lake, you will hike uphill by way of switchbacks. We hiked the trail in late March and there were a lot of slick spots, but it can still be done in normal hiking boots if you are careful. There were only a few people wearing snow shoes or spikes.
When you get close to the lake, you will see very clear signage telling you where to go. The trail turns into a loop so you can either go right or left to get to the lake. If you go to the left, you will cross a narrow bridge on the way.
Since it’s still pretty cold on the mountain, the lake was completely frozen over and some people were walking out into the middle of it. My friends went all the way out, but I stayed closer to the edge because I’m a little less brave.
It was a beautiful, sunny day and the snow was extremely bright so I would suggest bringing sunglasses. Overall, the trail wasn’t too busy but there were more people hiking in the afternoon when we were on our way out. On the weekends, this trail can be super popular. Even more so in the summer.
If you want to a more intense hike in, you can continue to Tom, Dick, and Harry trail. To get back to the parking lot, just head back the way you came.
Type of Trail: Out and Back
Length: About 4 Miles
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation Gain: 780 Feet
Elevation at Top: 4,100 at the high point
Extra Details: You need a Sno-Park pass for this hike from November 1-April 30. Pick one up at Whispering Woods Resort or online in advance.
Dogs are allowed on this trail on a leash.