South Bessemer Mountain: Skiing the Middle Fork, December 28, 2021

South Bessemer Mountain, at 5028’, offers a long slog for those so inclined: about 13 miles and 4100 feet of elevation gain. We took advantage of the rare low elevation snowfall in the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River area during the week after Christmas to ski tour up the logging roads for conditioning.

We made it about 7 miles round-trip with 1545 feet gained, breaking trail in deep, powdery snow and enjoying the views - including a small waterfall which had become an "icefall." Ultimately we opted to turn around at Big Blowout Falls, a large stream roaring through a gully, where the crossing was tricky.  

Solitude, snow and scenery! Magic in the Middle Fork!

Resources

• WTA.org's page on South Bessemer Mountain
• Summitpost.org's page on South Bessemer Mountain
• A Discover Pass is required at the trailhead. Don't park at the gated road - park at the pullout just a hundred yards further down on your right on the Middle Fork Road.

Strava