13 Ski Areas in Washington, part 1
13 Ski Resorts in Washington State
Part 1; 1-6
Washington State hosts a grip of ski resorts. The Summit at Snoqualmie, Steven’s Pass, and Crystal Mountain are a few of the more well-known resorts. While these are great places to ride, we also touch on the less notorious hills. We compiled a list of 13 in no real order, here’s part 1; 1-6 check it:
1. The Summit at Snoqualmie
The Summit at Snoqualmie is a recreation area located on Snoqualmie Pass in Washington State⎯just an hour from Seattle. For easy access, To The Mountain Shuttle’s bus service transports visitors and residents from Seattle/Bellevue to the pass. The Summit has alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, tubing, and night skiing. If you’re a cross-country skier, or want to try it, The Summit has several miles of cross-country ski trails that are maintained by Washington State Parks. Known for steeps, backbowls, terrain parks, a Nordic center and tubing park, this is the perfect place to spend a fun day in the snow!
2. Stevens Pass
Stevens Pass ski area is remotely located in the Cascade Range of Washington. Founded by Bruce Kehr and Don Adams in 1937, Steven’s humble rope-tow beginnings has since evolved. The mountain now offers 1,125 extensive acres of ski-able terrain day and night. The undeniable beauty is prominent everywhere but is truly splendid atop the 7th Heaven chairlift. Maneuver through the technical, big mountain terrain or throw down with the park rats as a “maverick.” Lifts operate daily and night skiing is on 5 days a week.
3. Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain is located south of the aforementioned mountains but southeast of Seattle. It’s the largest ski resort in Washington State and is truly a destination resort. The locals never grow old of gawking lovingly at Mt Rainier from a mere 12 miles, as the crow flies. The fact that CM offers 2,600 acres of terrain and over 50 runs is the tip of the “iceberg.” Take a long drive from the city and crush this world class mountain. But beware, during peak season accommodations are limited.
4. Badger Mountain
Quaintly placed in Waterville, Washington, Badger Mountain is ran completely by volunteers. This ski area relies heavily on donations as a $10 day pass hardly covers operations. Three lifts service the mellow terrain and the highest “peak” is 1,579 feet. Lifts typically spin from January to late March from 11am-4pm. Rip blue bird corduroy and let stress melt away.
5. Mt. Baker
Mt. Baker ski area resides on the west side of the Cascades, south of the Canadian border. These mountains are rugged and alluring, with large amounts of snowfall⎯oftentimes this ski resort has the most snowfall in the world. Mt. Baker’s average annual snowfall is 641 inches and holds the world record for winter 1998-1999 with a whopping 1,140 inches! There’s plenty of low hanging fruit in bounds but, also, heaps of backcountry riding. Be prepared! The steep, technical cliff lines make for a challenging and exhilarating run. If riding the slopes isn’t your thing, Baker has other winter activities such as snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
6. 49 Degrees North
49 Degrees North is in Eastern Washington inside the Colville National Forest and 60 miles north of Spokane. This less notorious mountain is a hot spot among locals and “randos” who love to hit smooth slopes. With acres of beautiful tree skiing not only will you enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, but you’ll have 2,325 skiable acres with two peaks⎯Chewelah Peak and Angel peak. There are 3 basins, 2 peaks, 86 marked trails and 7 lifts, including a new high speed detachable quad.
These mountains are only a few on our tour of Washington state. In two weeks we will continue our count with 7 to 13. Ski you soon!
