A Summit Uphill Travel Pass is now required for anyone traveling uphill within ski area boundaries, at all times. Whenever lifts at Summit East, Summit Central, or Summit West are open, uphill travelers must use designated uphill travel routes. When lifts are NOT running (area is not open) at Summit East, Summit Central, or Summit West, designated uphill travel routes are recommended, but not required.

Avalanche evaluation skills are a requirement to navigate this steep and committing terrain.

This tour starts by Summit East at the Gold Creek Sno-Park. Follow an old logging road for 4 miles to a clear open viewpoint close to the Kendall Lakes basins.

Wright Mountain, home to the relatively obscure Oyster Couloir, provides a unique skiing destination. The mountain offers impressive views of the Alpental Valley, Chair Peak, Bryant, Snoqualmie Mountain, and Gem Lake. The couloir features a blind entrance, and at its narrowest, it's only as wide as a ski. Ski crampons and veggie belays may be required for safe travel. Snow Lake, while seemingly serene, may not be safe for crossing, especially during the early season. Navigating through terrains like snow-covered boulders, icy waterfalls, and a forested gully is part of the journey down the mountain.

The tour around chair peak requires very good snow stability and skiers will be rewarded with beautiful ski descents in Alpental Valley.

Chair Peak is a sought-after destination nestled in the Alpental Valley. This location offers breathtaking views such as Bryant Peak, Source Lake, and a fascinating panorama from Chair Peak Basin. A route to the north side via the first notch in the ridge is typically preferred for its relative safety. Once on the ridge, skiers can enjoy views of the NE Buttress and onward towards Snow Lake. The skiing terrain on the north slopes of Chair is quite remarkable – moderately steep and filled with soft, deep snow, providing an adventurous descent towards Snow Lake. However, caution is required for lower, unseen cliffs. Additional points of interest include the ice formations on Snow Lake's shore, Snoqualmie Mountain at the lake's end, and magnificent views of Mt. Garfield. Skiers should note that the south-facing snow tends to deteriorate under strong sunlight, presenting some challenging conditions on the final descent to Source Lake.

The tour to the Slot Couloir has beautiful views, but the ascent is not direct and avalanche hazard identification skills are a requirement.

McClellan Butte has an exposed 3000' descent that is avalanche prone.

This tour is short and a great introduction to Alpental backcountry skiing.