Hike Gold Creek Pond

The quintessential family friendly hike,  Gold Creek Pond is a simple yet spectacular hike next to Snoqualmie Pass. Easily accessible from the top of the pass (4.5 miles, 12 minute drive), the Gold Creek Pond hike is a simple addition to any itinerary if you're in the area. 

From Hwy 90, take exit 54 toward Hyak/Gold Cr. From here you'll head north to Lake Mardee Road (the first right once you exit Hwy 90). Stay on Lake Mardee Road for 1/2 mile and take a left onto NF-144. You'll veer slightly left quickly thereafter into the trailhead parking lot. 

At just over a mile, the entire loop can be done in 30 minutes. Yet don't let the ease of accessibility and simplicity of the hike fool you; Gold Creek Pond has views which rival many other hikes in the area. Upon reaching the parking lot, which has availability for 50-60 cars, the loop path around the lake is a mere 50 yards away. The elevation gain is essential zero so Toddlers, grandparents, etc would have no problem along the paved path around the entire pond. And herein lies the beauty of this hike - the payoff to effort ratio is through the roof. With Rampart Ridge to the east surrounding the crystal clear blue waters of the pond and Alta Mountain in the distance, its a downright gorgeous hike with great views at every point in the loop. 

There are picnic tables once you start the loop, so its easy to set up a picnic, lounge chairs, etc to take in the view without having to hike around the entire loop. If you're ever heading through Snoqualmie Pass, put Gold Creek Pond on your list. You will not be disappointed.