Mother Lode peak
Mother Lode rises to 7,905 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Cascade Range range.
Standing at an elevation of around 2,900 meters (9,500 ft), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding rugged landscape. This mountain is known for its formidable size, boasting a prominence of over 1,300 meters (4,300 ft) and a topographic isolation of approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles). Its impressive size and elevation make it a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers seeking a challenging adventure.
During the winter season, the snowpack on Mother Lode can vary significantly. The mountain receives a substantial amount of snowfall, with reports indicating an average range of 6 to 10 meters (20 to 33 ft) of snow accumulation. This makes it a prime destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts who seek thrilling descents and untouched powder.
The runoff from Mother Lode feeds into several creeks and rivers in the area, including the beautiful and pristine XYZ Creek and ABC River. These water sources not only provide a scenic backdrop but also offer opportunities for fishing and other recreational activities.
The name "Mother Lode" holds an interesting history and significance. It is believed to have been named by early gold prospectors who were reminded of the rich mining areas in California, known as the "Mother Lode." This name pays homage to the potential wealth and abundance that this mountain represented to those seeking fortune in the rugged wilderness. While there are no specific legends or lore associated with Mother Lode, its name carries a sense of adventure and exploration, inviting mountaineers to uncover the wonders hidden within its slopes.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Mother Lode
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Nohrsc Brown Top | 64 in | → |
| Lyman Lake | 55 in | → |
| Harts Pass | 57 in | → |
| Lyman Lake | 54 in | → |
| Pope Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Harts Pass | 57 in | → |
| Rainy Pass | 31 in | → |
| Brown Top | 64 in | → |
| Nohrsc Cooper Pass | 0 in | → |
| Nohrsc Park Creek Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Park Creek Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Rainy Pass | 31 in | → |
Streamflow near Mother Lode
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Wenatchee River At Peshastin | 4,110 cfs | → |
| Andrews Creek Near Mazama | 110 cfs | → |
| Salix Creek At S Cascade Gl Near Marblemount | 0 cfs | → |
| Newhalem Creek Near Newhalem | 30 cfs | → |
| Thunder Creek Near Newhalem | 524 cfs | → |
| Icicle Creek Above Snow Creek Near Leavenworth | 807 cfs | → |
| Skagit River At Newhalem | 3,910 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Mother Lode
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Mother Lode.
Ski areas
- Mission Ridge Ski Area
- Sitzmark Ski Hill
- Telemark Cross Country
- Sun Peaks Resort
- Badger Mountain Ski Area
- Kane Valley (Nicola Nordic Ski Club)
River runs
- Confluence Of North And South Forks Of Twisp River To Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness Boundary
- Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Mcalester Creek
- Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Bridge Creek
- Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Boulder Creek
- Boundary Of The North Cascades National Park To Ends 1/4 Mile Upstream Of The Confluence With The Stehekin River
Get Mother Lode on your phone.
Save this peak as a favorite and get push alerts when storms move in, fresh snow falls upstream, or NWS issues a weather warning. Free, account optional.
Scan to install Look for this on your home screen