Top Ten Places to Ski in Washington

Washington State is renowned for its many opportunities for fast-paced recreation. The mountain ranges provide year-round entertainment, with endless opportunities for hiking, biking, camping and climbing in the spring, summer and fall months. In winter, though, something even more magical happens as the mountains become covered in snow. The name of the game turns to skiing and snowboarding. Enthusiasts of all skill levels have ample opportunity to enjoy the exhilaration of coasting through the white stuff at any one of Washington’s ski areas. Here’s an alphabetical listing of the ten most popular:

Alpental Ski Resort – This small ski mountain with steep terrain offers day and night access, and is easily accessible from Seattle.

Crystal Mountain – Also located within an easy drive of Seattle, Crystal Mountain offers 2,600 acres and more than 50 named runs.

Leavenworh Ski Hill – This hill, run by the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club, offers a family-oriented experience, complete with rope tows and tubing.

Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort – Its location on the leeward side of the Cascade Range offer two distinct benefits: annual snowfall of 200 inches and more than 300 days of sunshine each year.

Mt. Baker – Averaging 600 inches of snow each winter, Mt. Baker holds the record for the most snowfall among resorts in the state.

Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park – With 1,000 skiable acres and an average of 300 inches of snow each year, this mountain relies on quality over quantity. Its location on the Eastern side of the state provides for consistently great powder conditions.

Stevens Pass – Nestled among two national forests, the 37 runs at Stevens Pass are among some of the most scenic in the state.

Summit at Snoqualmie – This area boasts the closest location to Seattle. With more than 100 runs and 2,000 skiable acres, it is well worth the easy trip out from the city for a day of snowy fun.

White Pass Ski Area – This extremely family-friendly ski area offers numerous runs for skiers of all abilities. It’s smaller, more approachable size makes it a great choice for a family day out on the slopes.

49 Degrees North Mountain Resort – One of the distinguishing features of this popular ski area is the many entertainment options it offers. Saturday Night Skiing and Live Music and an annual Hawaiian Days celebration bring visitors back again and again.

Originally published on robertsiekert.net on November 4, 2019.