* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 6 to 12 inches. * WHERE...Cascades of Snohomish and Northern King Counties, Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit Counties, and Cascades of Southern King County. * WHEN...From 4 AM to 10 PM PST Friday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will be around 2500 ft Friday morning and will lower below 1000 ft Friday evening.
Standing at an impressive elevation of 7,168 feet (2,185 meters), Colonial Peak offers a challenging and rewarding climbing experience.
During the winter season, the snowpack on Colonial Peak can vary significantly. The mountain receives abundant snowfall, with snowpack depths reaching several meters. This makes it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts, such as backcountry skiers and snowshoers, who can enjoy the pristine snow-covered slopes.
The melting snow on Colonial Peak feeds into several creeks and rivers in the surrounding area. Notable among these is Thunder Creek, which originates from the south side of the mountain. The runoff from Colonial Peak contributes to the flow of Thunder Creek, ultimately joining the Skagit River, a key waterway in the region.
In terms of history and folklore, the name "Colonial" was given to the peak by the US Geological Survey in 1910, possibly inspired by the colonial architecture of nearby Diablo Dam. While no specific legends or lore are associated with Colonial Peak, its challenging terrain and breathtaking views continue to captivate those who venture to its summit.
Sources:
- Washington Trails Association: www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/colonial-peak
- SummitPost: www.summitpost.org/colonial-peak/150568
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Colonial Creek - North Cascades National Park
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Colonial Creek South Loop
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Colonial Creek North Loop
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Colonial Creek Campground
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Thunder
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Neve
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