Snow Peak Cabin

Snow Peak Cabin

Overview

Snow Peak Cabin, nestled high in the breathtaking Kettle River Mountain Range, serves as a year-round base camp for adventurers in northeastern Washington State. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat surrounded by nature or an immersive outdoor experience, this unique cabin provides access to thousands of acres of backcountry, ideal for skiing, hunting, and exploration.

Accommodations

The cabin features a cozy and straightforward design, consisting of a single room measuring 17-by-19 feet, accommodating up to four guests. Inside, you will find:

• Cots and foam pads for sleeping
• A propane cook stove
• A table and basic cookware for meal preparation
• A wood stove for heating
• Solar-powered lighting
• An outhouse for sanitation
• Horse corrals for equestrian campers

Firewood is provided, but it is highly encouraged to use it conservatively. Note that the firewood is transported by helicopter every two to three years, making it valuable and limited. Additionally, firewood provided at the cabin is not to be used in outdoor fire rings.

Access and Accessibility

Snow Peak Cabin is not accessible by vehicle. Guests must embark on a hike, bike ride, horseback ride, ski, or snowshoe for three to five miles to reach the cabin, depending on the chosen route and the season. The winter route begins at the Kettle Crest Trailhead on Sherman Pass (State Highway 20) and requires about five miles of travel for skiers and snowshoers. In the summer and fall, access is available via the Snow Peak Trailhead, approximately three miles away. Visitors are advised to carry snow chains and a shovel during winter months due to potential icy conditions.

Essential Information

Guests must come prepared as there is no water source on-site. It is essential to bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning along with sleeping bags, toilet paper, garbage bags, and food as these items are not provided. Note that cell phone service is not available in the area, so a topographic map and compass are recommended for navigation.

Natural Features

The cabin is situated at an elevation of 6,400 feet, providing stunning views that stretch from the Cascades to the mountains of Canada and northern Idaho. The surrounding Colville National Forest offers an array of natural beauty, with rolling meadows, dense forests, and abundant wildlife such as hawks, bears, and cougars.

Recreational Opportunities

Visitors can enjoy a multitude of recreational activities, including:

• Hiking on scenic trails such as Snow Peak Trail No. 10, Kettle Crest South Trail No. 13, and Sherman Loop Trail No. 72
• Mountain biking on designated paths
• Horseback riding with designated horse corrals
• Winter sports like snowshoeing and skiing
• Hunting during open seasons in the diverse wildlife areas

The proximity to the Sherman Pass Scenic Byway, which runs for 40 miles through stunning landscapes, adds to the allure and accessibility of outdoor adventures.

Need to Know

Wildlife in the area includes bears, so it is crucial to use appropriate containers for food and garbage. To protect the forest ecosystems, do not move firewood from different areas to prevent the spread of invasive species. For further instructions on safety and conservation, refer to local regulations and guidelines.

Getting There

Winter access: From Seattle, take Highway 2 east to Wenatchee, then Highway 97 north to Tonasket, followed by Highway 20 east to Republic. From Republic, travel east on State Highway 20 to the Kettle Crest Trailhead located on top of Sherman Pass.

Summer and fall access: In addition to the above route, the cabin can also be reached via County Road 99 (Hall Creek Road). Follow the directions to the Snow Peak Trailhead and then proceed along the trail to the cabin.

Snow Peak Cabin offers a unique opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Washington State. With a variety of activities, stunning vistas, and a remote setting, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.