Lundin Peak and Red Peak are two beautiful mountains at the head of Commonwealth Basin in the Snoqualmie Backcountry. With the weather looking good for the day we decided it would be a perfect ski tour. Our time was limited to a half day trip but with such easy access it would be a perfect mission.
Leaving the car we skinned up the flats of Commonwealth basin as the sun rose over the valley. It was going to be a warm day so we kept our heads down while skinning towards Red Peak. With the straight foreward access and steepness we were on a race against avalance conditions. Soon enough we found ourselves at the base of the North face and preparing to bootpack.
Climbing Red Peak
It was time to switch from skinning to bootpacking as the North face was just too steep. Taking turns breaking in the track we put our heads down and started climbing. The sun was starting to get warm but the snow was still relatively firm.
Before long we were making the final steps to the summit of Red Peak. While we climbed up the snow was transitioning to perfect corn and we were excited about our descent. Utilizing each others boot prints we made our way up, looking forward to skiing down the way we came.
Soon we were standing on the summit and taking in the views. While transitioning we chatted about the snow pack and how our descent looked. The views coupled with the access had made this a great summit.
The views were stunning as we looked to the South. We were staring directly at the Kendal Chutes and I knew I wanted to ride them one day. They looked steep, sustained and with numerous options. This spot possibly had the best views of the terrain.
The day was still early and the winds weren’t to bad so we decided after our descent we would head over to Lundin Peak. Compared to Red Peak it was less steep but looked like a fun line none the less.
Skiing down Red Peak
Standing on the summit of Red Peak we scoped out our line. It was a steep face and although we felt okay with conditions the sun was heating up the slopes. It was decided we would drop in one at a time before traversing to safety. The last thing we wanted is for someone to kick off a wet slide that would hit someone else.
Finally it was time to drop off the summit of Red Peak. While Jason rode into the line we watched from above. The snow seemed to be perfect as he ripped down the slopes. Once he had traversed to a safe spot we rode into the line one at a time.
Before long we were back into a group on the lower slopes. Off in the distance we could see the Snoqualmie Pass backcountry. Even if this would have been our only line of the day it would have been a great day.
Soon we were skiing down into Commonwealth basin. The snow had gotten a bit heavier but it was still a super fun and direct line. Soon we had made our way down to the base of Red Peak and we regrouped.
Ski Touring up Lundin Peak
With the day still being early we made our way up Lundin Peak. The snow had started to glop on our skins but as long as we stayed in our skin track everything was fine.
Heading up Lundin Peak we were taken back by the view of Red Peak in particular the line we had just skied. Our route was clean as we traversed the edge of the mountain choosing a mellow route in contrast to a direct climb.
Standing on the top of Lundin Peak we rested and took in the views. By now we were in the heat of the day and enjoyed the warmth of the sun. The snow consistency had changed but we were happy to be on our final summit of the day.
To the East we could see another bowl that I had never skied. It had steep faces everywhere and a few lines that cut through the cliff bands.
To the far East we were looking into Alpine Lakes Wilderness. In particular Overcoat peak stood out at the head of the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River. This was an area I was fortunate to visit while doing the 7 day Alpine Lakes Traverse.
Skiing down Lundin Peak
Skiing down Lundin Peak we decided to follow our skin track. The sun had warmed up the snow causing wet slides but it was a great ride non the less. Compared to Red Peak it was much less aggressive but it was scenic turns riding back down to Commonwealth Basin.
We were happy with both the scenery and the terrain making the most out of a semi short ski touring day. So
In conclusion both Red Peak and Lundin are great scenic areas. They both offer amazing views as well as fun skiing. If you want a nice steep face Red Peak is the place to go but if you want something a bit more mellow then Lundin is the place to go in Commonwealth Basin.