Washington State is a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with some of the best mountains you can visit in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, Washington has something for everyone. Below is a list of some of the best Washington State ski areas you can visit.
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Washington State Ski Areas
1. Crystal Mountain Resort
Location: Near Mount Rainier, approximately 85 miles southeast of Seattle.
Best For: Intermediate and advanced skiers.
Why You’ll Love It: Crystal Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in Washington, offering more than 2,600 acres of skiable terrain. With breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, this resort is a favorite among those looking for a challenge. It features long runs, steep slopes, and ample backcountry opportunities. The resort’s gondola ride is an experience in itself, offering stunning vistas on the way up. If you’re an advanced skier looking for diverse terrain and deep powder, Crystal Mountain is your destination.
2. Stevens Pass
Location: 78 miles northeast of Seattle, along U.S. Highway 2.
Best For: All skill levels, especially families.
Why You’ll Love It: Stevens Pass is a versatile resort, offering terrain suitable for all skill levels. With over 1,100 acres of skiable terrain, it’s a perfect destination for families and groups with varying abilities. The resort is known for its well-groomed runs and has several terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. Stevens Pass is also a popular spot for night skiing, with over 300 acres of illuminated trails. The accessibility and variety make Stevens Pass a great choice for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
3. Mount Baker Ski Area
Location: Near Bellingham, close to the Canadian border, about 130 miles north of Seattle.
Best For: Powder enthusiasts and backcountry skiers.
Why You’ll Love It: Mount Baker Ski Area is famous for its incredible snowfall, often boasting some of the highest annual totals in North America. It’s a haven for powder hounds and those who prefer natural, ungroomed terrain. Mount Baker’s backcountry is legendary, offering challenging runs and deep powder that attract expert skiers and snowboarders. The resort also has a laid-back vibe, with fewer crowds compared to other major resorts in the state. If you’re chasing powder and looking for a more rugged, natural experience, Mount Baker is the place to be.
4. The Summit at Snoqualmie
Location: About 50 miles east of Seattle, along Interstate 90.
Best For: Beginners, families, and those looking for a quick trip from Seattle.
Why You’ll Love It: The Summit at Snoqualmie is the closest ski resort to Seattle, making it an incredibly convenient option for a quick day on the slopes. The resort comprises four areas: Summit West, Summit Central, Summit East, and Alpental. Each offers something different, with Summit West being particularly beginner-friendly and Alpental catering to more advanced skiers. With its proximity to the city, affordable lift tickets, and a wide range of terrain, The Summit is ideal for families and beginners. Additionally, the resort offers night skiing, which is perfect for those who want to hit the slopes after work or school.
5. Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort
Location: 12 miles southwest of Wenatchee, on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains.
Best For: Sun-seekers and intermediate skiers.
Why You’ll Love It: Mission Ridge is known for its sunny weather and excellent snow conditions. Located on the eastern side of the Cascades, this resort often escapes the heavy clouds and rain that can impact other areas. Mission Ridge offers over 2,000 acres of terrain, with plenty of wide-open groomed runs that are perfect for carving. The resort’s relatively small size means shorter lift lines and less crowded slopes, making for a relaxed and enjoyable skiing experience. If you’re looking for a sunny, laid-back atmosphere with excellent intermediate terrain, Mission Ridge is a great choice.
6. White Pass Ski Area
Location: 50 miles west of Yakima, near Mount Rainier.
Best For: Families and intermediate skiers.
Why You’ll Love It: White Pass Ski Area is a family-friendly resort with a relaxed vibe. The resort features around 1,500 acres of terrain, with a good mix of beginner and intermediate runs. White Pass is also known for its excellent Nordic skiing, with over 18 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The resort’s location near Mount Rainier provides stunning views and a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. White Pass is ideal for families looking for a low-key, scenic ski destination.
7. Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area
Editor’s note: please check the NPS website for road and area closures before you decide to go!
Location: Olympic National Park, near Port Angeles.
Best For: Beginners and scenic skiers.
Why You’ll Love It: Hurricane Ridge is one of the most unique ski destinations in Washington, located within Olympic National Park. This small, community-run ski area offers a few beginner and intermediate runs, making it ideal for those new to the sport. The real draw, however, is the stunning scenery. Skiing at Hurricane Ridge offers unparalleled views of the Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and even Vancouver Island on a clear day. If you’re looking for a serene, scenic experience, Hurricane Ridge is a must-visit.
8. Staying Safe on the Slopes
Skiing and snowboarding are exhilarating winter activities, but they come with inherent risks, especially in challenging terrains like those at Mount Baker or Crystal Mountain. To make the most of your time on the slopes, it’s important to prioritize safety. Always wear a helmet, stay within your skill level, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when navigating crowded runs or unfamiliar backcountry areas. If an injury does occur, it’s crucial to get medical attention immediately. Washington’s ski resorts are equipped with first-aid stations and ski patrols trained to handle a wide range of injuries, from minor sprains to more serious conditions.
In more severe cases, such as fractures or head injuries, it’s important to follow up with a healthcare professional to ensure proper treatment and recovery. For those considering skiing in backcountry areas, like those offered at Mount Baker, it’s essential to carry appropriate safety gear, including avalanche beacons, and to have a solid understanding of avalanche safety. Backcountry skiing offers unmatched freedom and excitement but demands respect for the risks involved.
Washington State Ski Areas Map
(Added by site editor). This is a map of the Washington State ski areas mentioned in this post. Note it is a map image — to view the interactive map click here or on the map image.
Note that the featured image here is from Ruth Hartnup on Flickr under a Creative Commons license.
