Chair Peak

Chair Peak is a stunning and rugged mountain located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness near Snoqualmie Pass in Washington State. With an elevation of approximately 6,238 feet (1,901 meters), Chair Peak is a well-known destination for both summer hikers and winter climbers. It gets its name from its distinctive chair-like shape when viewed from certain angles. The peak offers dramatic scenery, steep faces, and panoramic views of the surrounding Cascades, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest.

How to Reach Chair Peak, Washington

Chair Peak is accessed via the Snow Lake Trailhead near Alpental Ski Area at Snoqualmie Pass. Here’s how to reach the trailhead:

1. From Seattle, take Interstate 90 eastbound for about 50 miles.
2. Take Exit 52 for Snoqualmie Pass and turn left toward Alpental Road.
3. Drive up Alpental Road to the upper parking lot near the Snow Lake Trailhead.

From the Snow Lake Trail, hikers and climbers continue to Source Lake and then follow unmarked trails and climber's paths to the base of Chair Peak. In winter, the area is popular for backcountry skiing and ice climbing, but avalanche danger must always be considered.

Weather at Chair Peak

The weather around Chair Peak varies significantly by season. Summers (July through September) offer mild to warm temperatures, generally between 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C), with mostly clear conditions. However, sudden rainstorms or fog can roll in even during summer, so always prepare for the unexpected.

Winters are cold, snowy, and hazardous. Heavy snowfall transforms the area into a winter wonderland, but also brings the risk of avalanches and severe weather. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and wind chills can be extreme. Winter ascents require proper gear, avalanche training, and careful planning.

Best Time to Visit Chair Peak

The best time to visit Chair Peak depends on the activity. For hiking and scrambling, the ideal window is from mid-July to late September when trails are mostly snow-free. Wildflowers bloom in July, and visibility is best in late summer.

For winter climbing and alpine touring, January through March is popular, although conditions vary year to year. Due to high avalanche risk in winter, only experienced climbers and skiers should attempt Chair Peak during the snowy season.

Why Chair Peak is Famous in Washington

Chair Peak is renowned for its dramatic alpine appearance and its accessibility from the Seattle area. It serves as a prominent training ground for mountaineers and alpine climbers due to its steep routes, ice couloirs, and mixed climbing opportunities. In the winter, its north-facing slopes offer challenging backcountry ski routes.

Chair Peak is also famous for its location in the heart of the scenic Alpine Lakes Wilderness, known for jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and vast forests. It offers a classic Cascade mountaineering experience within just a couple of hours from the city, making it a beloved spot for weekend adventures.

Entry and Visit Details

Visitors to Chair Peak need a Northwest Forest Pass to park at the Snow Lake Trailhead. The pass can be purchased online or at nearby ranger stations for $5 per day or $30 annually.

No special climbing permits are required for Chair Peak unless you’re camping overnight in the wilderness. In that case, a free self-issue wilderness permit is available at the trailhead. There are no developed facilities along the trail, so visitors must practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.

Because the peak is in a wilderness area, group sizes are limited (usually to 12 people), and dogs must be kept on a leash.

History and Geology of Chair Peak

Chair Peak is part of the Cascade Range, a rugged mountain chain formed by volcanic activity and shaped by glacial erosion. Its steep faces are composed of granodiorite and metamorphic rocks that give it its imposing structure.

Historically, Chair Peak was used by indigenous people and later by early mountaineers for exploration and recreation. The name "Chair Peak" came from the mountain’s appearance resembling a high-backed chair. In modern mountaineering culture, it has become a classic winter climb for its steep north face and is regularly featured in alpine guidebooks.

Things to Do at Chair Peak

• Hiking: The approach to Chair Peak via Source Lake offers scenic alpine terrain and is a popular summer hike.
• Climbing: Chair Peak's north face is a popular winter mixed climbing route; the south side offers summer scrambling options.
• Ski Touring: Experienced skiers frequent the area in winter for challenging runs and deep powder conditions.
• Photography: Capture stunning views of the craggy peak, Source Lake, and surrounding alpine scenery.
• Backpacking: Nearby routes lead into the heart of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness for multi-day excursions.

Interesting Facts about Chair Peak

• Chair Peak is often one of the first technical winter climbs for many Pacific Northwest mountaineers.
• The Source Lake basin below Chair Peak is a popular snowshoe and backcountry ski destination.
• Chair Peak is visible from many points in Snoqualmie Pass and is a key landmark in the area.
• The mountain features multiple climbing routes, including the North Face Couloir, a classic alpine climb.
• Despite its popularity, Chair Peak retains a remote and wild feel due to its rugged terrain and lack of developed trails to the summit.

Tips for Visiting Chair Peak

• Check Conditions: Always review avalanche forecasts and weather reports, especially in winter.
• Proper Gear: Bring crampons, ice axes, helmets, and avalanche safety equipment if climbing in winter.
• Navigation: Use GPS and a topographic map; the trail to Chair Peak is unmarked after Source Lake.
• Start Early: Begin your climb at dawn to allow ample time for the approach, climb, and descent.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring sufficient water and purification options; natural sources may be frozen or scarce.
• Leave No Trace: Respect the wilderness by minimizing your impact on the environment.