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Lake Valhalla - 4830'
Miles RT: Elevation Gain: Route/Trail:
7 1700' good+
Map: GT - Benchmark Mtn. #144
USGS -Labyrinth
Season: All
A fine walk to a nice lake nestled at the western foot of Lichtenberg Mountian.  Good trail climbs easily through the trees to Union Gap and an intersection with the Pacific Crest Trail #2000.  Hang a left (SSW) and complete the walk to the lake.  But once the snows of winter blanket the road, a slightly different route is avaliable to those prepared for the conditions.  Hike or snowshoe Smithbrook Road to the apex of the first big switchback after crossing beneath open slopes (around 4150') and leave the road heading roughly WSW. Ascend the drainage of Smith Brook as it climbs to a 5100' saddle between Lichtenberg Mtn. and Pt. 5747 (Mt. McCausland).  Minor avalanche concerns below the open slopes on Smithbrook Road so be sure to check Northwest Avalanche Center for conditions before you go.
  January 14, 2007      
Low on Smithbrook Road  
Out of the trees  
 Above the short switchback
Along Smith Brook  
Lichtenbarg NW ridge comes into view  
 Mt. Mc Causaland - Pt. 5747
Continuing to gently climb  
Lichtenberg near the saddle  
 Lower slopes of Pt. 5747
Lunch at the saddle  
Frozen Lake Valhalla  
Warm sun and views west  
 Flocked trees and snowy mysteries
 Sun setting and the hike out
Smithbrook Road  
U.S. Hwy. 2 and the "berm"  
Directions:
 U.S. Hwy. 2 just east of Stevens Pass turn north on to Smithbrook Road (Forest Road 6700) and follow the good gravel road about 2 miles to the trailhead and parking area. After the snow comes, plows clearing Hwy. 2 create a berm, which blocks access to Smithbrook from the east bound lanes. Use alternate winter route.
Winter: From the west side, drive six miles east of Stevens Pass on U.S. 2, take the Mill Creek exit and make a U-turn to get onto the westbound lanes. Drive less than 1 1/2 miles to a large plowed turnout a little to the east of Smithbrook Road (Forest Road 6700), elevation 3,187 feet.  Be prepared to scale the plow berm, as by mid-winter it may be as high as 8 feet (sherpa's and rope usually not necessary).
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