Kid- and dog-friendly skiing in the Pacific Northwest

01/07/2017 by scott

Since there are so few places to actually practice biathlon and to keep the cross-training process super-fun and positive for youth, here’s a guide to places in Washington State (and the Pacific Northwest vicinity) where you can hone your skate/skiing abilities — either on a trail or tour that’s fun for kids and/or in a system that allows dogs (e.g. for skijooring).

Google map

Interstate 90

Crystal Springs (dog-friendly)

Central Cascades Winter Recreation Council page on Crystal Springs
Nice topo map here —
http://www.outdoorproject.com/adventures/washington/cross-country-skiing/crystal-springs-sno-park-trails
Erling Stordahl is not dog-friendly, but has some fun loops for kids — both flat and pretty steep.
- http://www.outdoorproject.com/adventures/washington/cross-country-skiing/erling-stordahl-ski-trails
Dog Power Trail 100 is located on the southwest side of the Sno-Park. Separate parking is available for mushers and for non-motorized users who do not object to sharing the trail with dogs. This trail is approximately 1 mile long and terminates at Lost Lake Road, where users can access the Iron Horse Trail. NOTE: ALL DOGS MUST BE ON A GANGLINE or LEASH. There are no exceptions! If a team is needs to pass or is coming head on, rein your dog in and mover to the side of the trail and restrain your dog(s). This is NOT and OFF-LEASH area. Please also note that a Special Grooming Sticker is needed in addition to your Sno-Park Pass to use this area and trail.

Connect Dog Trail to John Wayne, then go southeast past Stampede Pass Road until you can access the dog sled trail system below Meany Cabin. Lots of fun loops in there!

Crystal Springs trail map (PDF)

Cabin Creek (no dogs)

Great conditions and varied trails for kids. Kongsberger Ski Club maintains the trails.

Field guide from Outdoor Project (great “Adventure Description” with maps upon free registration)

Highway 2

Steven’s Pass

Skyline Lake trail from new downhill parking lot. Not groomed, but dog-friendly.
Nordic Center (no dogs, but great skating and classic up valley, plus the WBA biathlon range)