Snowshoeing, Cross-country Skiing and Non-motorized Winter Recreation
Winter sport enthusiasts and families can spice up the cold months with a variety of snow activities to get outside and enjoy what the snow has to offer! Washington Sno-Parks provide access to a variety of winter recreation activities, including snowshoeing, sledding, skiing, skijoring and snow play.
Rules & safety
Sno-Parks
Sno-parks are distinct from state parks in that they crisscross state and federal lands and involve many land managers, state agencies, concessionaires, and contractors. Sno-parks offer motorized, non-motorized and animal-driven recreation opportunities. Sno-parks are maintained by the Winter Recreation Program.
Sno-Park Permits pay for trail grooming, lot clearing and plowing, sanitation, education and enforcement. Make sure you have the proper permit or grooming sticker when enjoying Sno-Parks. Failure to do so can result in fines. You may purchase Sno-Park permits online or at locations throughout Washington.
More safety tips
Sno-park users should be familiar with Rules and Safety Information before heading out. Prepare for your adventure by having proper clothing, emergency gear and safety equipment. Understand that poor weather can delay a search and rescue operation, resulting in fatalities.
Popular Sno-Parks with Snowshoeing, Cross-country Skiing and Non-motorized Winter Recreation
Getting started with Snowshoeing, Cross-country Skiing and Non-motorized Winter Recreation
Guided adventures are a great way to get started with Winter Activities! Check with local land managers or recreation organizations near you to see what options are available.
Equipment like snowshoes, cross-country skis and more can be rented from vendors across the state.
Snow Play at Sno-Parks
Designated areas are available for tubing and general snow play at the Fields Spring, Lake Wenatchee, Hyak, Rose Springs, and Oldman Pass Sno-Parks. In addition, tubing and general snow play are permitted in non-designated areas in many Sno-Parks and in state parks that are open in the winter. For safety's sake, snow players should stay off designated snowmobile and non-motorized sport trails. Ice skating is not available in any location. Due to the mild Washington climate, lakes do not freeze hard enough to permit safe skating.
Map & visitor guide
Use the Find a Park Page to see maps and visitor guides for a specific park.