With some of the most spectacular skiing resorts in the nation, Washington State is a winter wonderland. Skiers and snowboarders can experience an exhilarating adventure at these resorts, which range from the slopes of Crystal Mountain to the quaint charm of Stevens Pass. These resorts are a must-visit for anyone wishing to experience the best of winter sports, with top-notch amenities, breathtaking mountain views, and a variety of winter activities. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top skiing resorts in Washington State.
#1. The Summit, Snoqualmie
The Summit at Snoqualmie, which serves all varieties of skiers and snowboarders, is the nearest ski area to Seattle. Summit East, Summit Central, and Summit West are three of its four mountain bases. On the other side of Interstate 90 is the fourth ski area, Alpental, which has more difficult terrain. There are more than 100 approved downhill lines on the mountain, and there are about 2,000 acres that can be skied. 50 kilometers of groomed Nordic ski trails extend from the resort, and there are over 20 chairlifts and surface lifts to spread out the people. Cross-country skiing day and season passes are offered, and the resort offers slope-side hotels, night skiing, and snow tubing.
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#2. Mount Baker
Out of all the skiing resorts in Washington State, the Mt. Baker Ski Area receives the most snowfall since it is tucked between Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. All skill levels can find a path that suits them. From easy green runs for novices to challenging off-track steep terrain for experts. Mt. Baker Ski Area is conveniently reachable from Bellingham with a rental car and is approximately a one-hour drive into the North Cascades National Park. Additionally, it offers “Music on the Mountain,” a fantastic music festival program that lasts the entire ski season.
#3. Mission Ridge
Mission Ridge is also one of the top skiing resorts in Washington State. For incredible off-piste terrain and more powder-like snow than other resorts in the Northwest, advanced skiers need to go no farther than Mission Ridge. Although it is farther from Seattle than the other resorts on this list, the beautiful snow does come at a price. Even so, a winter weekend trip to Leavenworth or Wenatchee would be fantastic because both cities have a wide range of hotel and dining options.
The majority of the terrain is appropriate for intermediate and advanced skiers, but if you wish to develop your abilities, you can sign up for private or group instruction. Check out a nearby Wenatchee Wild ice hockey game for a fun family activity!
#4. Crystal Mountain
While the Rainier Express has some excellent groomers, the Forest Queen Express has solid intermediate terrain. Short lift Green Valley has a large open bowl at the summit. The steeps are Crystal’s most noticeable feature. As long as the weather is not frosty, the snow is frequently heavy and adheres to the steep slopes making them skiable. Rainy days can result from the lower elevation. However, the ski resort is located on the “sunny side” of Mount Rainier, two hours from Seattle.
#5. Stevens Pass Resort
With more than 1,125 acres to explore and 460 inches of snowfall on average each winter, Stevens Pass is the peak of skiing in Washington. The extensive terrain is serviced by ten different chairlifts, including four high-speed quads. The resort is a sought-after vacation spot because it is only 90 minutes from Seattle and Emerald City. On the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, it is even closer to the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, making for a fantastic winter weekend trip.
The Stevens Pass Nordic Center is one of the most well-liked locations for other winter activities because of the numerous cross-country skiing and snowshoeing routes that are available there. Access to the mountain is unrestricted for Epic Pass subscribers.
#6. Mount Spokane
Due to its location on the mountain’s dry side, Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park receives exactly the ideal amount of fine, fluffy snow for great skiing conditions. For those moving on from beginner classes, there are a lot of intermediate runs that are appropriate for all skill levels, and the long, difficult black diamond slopes. The four terrain parks are very well-liked and provide a range of organic elements for you to hone your abilities. Children in particular will benefit from the family-friendly tubing hill, where night skiing is available most evenings until nine o’clock. The distance between Spokane and Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is only 25 miles.
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#7. White Pass Ski Area
With over 1,500 acres of accessible terrain served by six chairlifts and two rope tows, the White Pass Ski Area is a well-liked winter vacation spot in Yakima, Washington. It provides slopes for skiers of all skill levels, ranging from Paradise Valley to the Couloir Express or Quad Basins. White Pass offers a wide range of activities and events away from the slopes, such as a Winter Carnival in February. 18 kilometers of groomed trails, rentals, a warming yurt, and a shopping area are all available at the Nordic Center.
#8. Hurricane Ridge
This little ski resort, which is located inside Olympic National Park, could be considered a hidden gem. At 5,242 feet, Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area are one of just three maintained ski areas located inside US national parks, so you can always expect new snow there. There are places for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing in addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding. The ski area is accessible from the middle of December until the beginning of March, and it features two rope tows, one lift, and a tubing park. Bear in mind that winter storms could cause Hurricane Ridge Road to close or postpone the opening.
#9. Alpental Ski Resort
The Summit at Snoqualmie is made up of four ski areas, one of which is Alpental. It offers greater variation and more difficult terrain and is separated from the rest of the resort by Interstate 90. Its 800 acres are mostly made up of harder lines that are appropriate for expert skiers.
Some of the best backcountry skiing in the state can be found in the Alpental Back Bowls, but proficient backcountry skiing requires both avalanche safety and knowledge. Fresh tacos and burritos are available at the Powder House, as well as other food options in Alpental. The website allows customers to purchase lift tickets for Alpental, which gives them access to the whole resort.
#10. Ski Bluewood
Ski Bluewood, also known as the Bluewood Ski Area, is located in the Blue Mountains of southeast Washington, not far from the borders of Oregon and Idaho. Besides, Ski Bluewood isn’t the largest resort in Washington by any means, with only 400 skiable acres and around 25 named slopes, but to some, it’s the best-kept ski secret in the state.
Moreover, Ski Bluewood offers a lengthy and reliable season thanks to its base elevation of 4,450 feet, which results in plenty of snowfall throughout the winter. Additionally, ski lift tickets are cheaper here. After a long day of exploring Ski Bluewood’s slopes, whether you live on the east side of Washington or are searching for a family-friendly alternative to large mountain resorts, you’ll be ready for a restful night’s sleep.
Read Also: RESORTS IN WASHINGTON: 15 Best Resorts In Washington
What Month Does it Snow in Washington?
Although one out of every four December is devoid of snow, December is typically when Washington experiences its first winter snowfall. Snow does fall in November on occasion. Typically, March marks the conclusion of the snowy season. Less frequently, Washington experiences its last snowfall as early as February.
What Is the Biggest Ski Mountain in Washington State?
With 2,600 acres and more than 50 designated runs, Crystal is Washington State’s largest ski and snowboard resort. With a wide range of services, it is also one of the better-developed ski regions. Advanced snowboarders and skiers will like the hike-to terrain off of Chair 6 and the Northway lift.
Can You Ski in Seattle?
Snoqualmie Pass is unmatched as the mountain that calls Seattle home. Snoqualmie offers a range of terrain for snow aficionados of all skill levels. It has amazing snowboarding runs, cross-country skiing, night skiing, and family-friendly snow tubing.