Skiing and Snowboarding in Seattle 2025

Seattle is surrounded by mountains, and as soon as the first snowstorm hits the Cascades in mid-autumn, it's time to plan a skiing or snowboarding trip. The city can offer at least half a dozen amazing destinations in less than 2.5 hours drive. From some of the tallest peaks of the Cascades to the pristine beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, there are plenty of ski areas to check out, and surely there will be tons of powder in the snowiest US state.

Ski Season in Seattle, Washington

The ski season near Seattle usually starts right after Thanksgiving and lasts through early April. However, the warming climate takes a toll on ski resorts as well, and warm fall weather often results in openings delayed until mid-December. There are times when the winter arrives earlier than expected, with snowfall as early as October, but those eager to ski and board still need to wait for enough snow to fall. Generally, you can expect the best snow conditions from mid-January through February. Because of its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the Seattle area tends to see wet snow more often than powder, but the resorts still enjoy several powder days each season.

Crystal Mountain Resort

First opened back in 1962, Crystal Mountain is the number one ski destination in the Seattle area. Located 85 miles (136 km) from the city, it's the biggest ski resort in Washington, with 2,600 acres (1,050 ha) of groomed trails. The stunning views of Mt. Rainier are the main attraction of the resort. The vistas are so breathtaking that you just might want to stop skiing and sit for hours at the Summit House, the highest restaurant in the state.

The famous 2,400-foot (731-m) Mount Rainier Gondola ride is also going to be memorable, revealing spectacular landscapes of the snowy trees. Crystal Mountain Resort also gets points for variety due to over 2,600 acres (1,050 ha) of groomed trails. Lodging options include three hotels in close proximity to the resort.

Passes & Lift Tickets

Crystal Mountain offers several pass options, all granting various privileges and opportunities. Ikon Pass, which gives skiers expanded access to Crystal Mountain, 12 Friends & Family tickets, and much more, varies from $549 to $1,449. Crystal Midweek Pass costs $769, while Crystal Afternoon Pass costs $319. Crystal Tots and Senior Anytime Pass costs $49 and is available for children under four and seniors over 80 years old. The 3-Day Frequency passes cost varies around $73-99 per day. Daily lift tickets range from $62 to $199 for adults. Scenic gondola rides vary around $49-54.

Mount Baker Ski Area

Mount Baker Ski Area is located 130 miles (212 km) from Seattle, which is quite far. However, it's worth visiting because Mount Baker is one of the snowiest resorts in Washington. If you are looking for tons of powder, you won't be disappointed here. Backcountry rides and views of the North Cascades are simply stunning. However, you have to pick your timing carefully because the mountain is not that high, and this results in less-than-perfect snow conditions. The most reliable time to ski at Mount Baker is mid-February. Another advantage is affordability and fewer crowds than at bigger Northwest ski resorts.

Season Passes & Daily Tickets

Season passes are available for purchase in September-October and are quickly sold out. The resort offers Returning Priority Window Passes for returning holders of last year's passes, volunteers, and employees of the resort, Any Day season passes, and Mostly Midweek Passes

The Mostly Midweek passes, which are valid on Mondays through Fridays and are valid on weekends after March 15th, cost $1,046.63 for adults, while college students pay $832.70. Young adults (16-17) pay $647.29, and the price for youth (13-15) is $384.81. For children (7-12), the cost is $290.18. Seniors (60-69) are offered a pass for $624.53, and super seniors (70+) benefit from a reduced price of $201.87.

Daily lift tickets cost $94.27 for adults, while youth (11-15) are charged $58.23. For children (7-10), the ticket is priced at $40.20. Seniors (60-69) pay a slightly reduced rate of $79.48, and super seniors (70+) enjoy an even lower price at $55.45. For those using the beginner chair only, adults (16-69) pay $57.30, and youth (11-15) can get a ticket for $47.83.

Stevens Pass

Stevens Pass is located 82 miles (131 km) from Seattle. The resort is famous for its dry powder over the Cascade Crest. Stevens Pass also offers night skiing, terrain parks, and beautiful views over 1,000 skiable acres (400 ha). There are approximately 37 trials, perfect for beginners and experienced skiers. To witness this picturesque skiing area during night-time, Stevens Pass offers nighttime tickets, offering fewer crowds and a more exhilarating experience. A ski trip to Stevens Pass can be combined with a visit to the nearby Bavarian village of Leavenworth, where snowshoeing or snow tubing is available for the whole family.

Tickets & Passes

Stevens Pass Select Pass, which gives you access to the resort on off-peak days, costs $428 for adults between the ages of 16 and 69 years old and $111 for seniors aged 70 and older. Stevens Pass Premium Pass with unrestricted access costs $666 for adults over 25 years old and up to 69 years old, $567 for young adults over 16 and up to 24 years old, and $398 for teenagers 13-15 years old. Seniors over 70 can benefit from a discounted price of $131 per pass.

Summit at Snoqualmie

Snoqualmie Mountain is located in just a 45-minute drive from the city and is often referred to as "home mountain" by Seattle residents. The resort adjacent to the mountain, called The Summit at Snoqualmie, offers the largest night skiing area in the state, so riders can just conveniently drop-in after work. The mountain features the historic first chairlift ever operated in the state of Washington, it dates back to the 1930s. With four base areas (Summit West, Summit Central, Summit East, and Alpental), there's plenty of variety and space. The resort also has snow tubing and cross-country trails.

Tickets & Passes

The resort offers several pass options, which give you access to different areas. Alpental Passes provide entry to the Alpental area, known for its steep terrain, perfect for experienced skiers. The listed prices are valid until November 12th. Alpental Passes range from $739 to $929 for adults, with varying prices depending on the age. Summit Pass gives you access to all three Summit areas, a great option for a group with different skiing levels. The cost varies around $150 to $699, depending on the age. There are also Remedy Passes for access during off-peak times, Twilight Passes for skiing after 2 pm, and Nordic Passes for access to the Nordic Trail for cross-country skiers.

Après-ski Attractions at the Resorts

If you'd like to unwind after an exhilarating skiing or snowboarding experience, all of the resorts have plenty of options, with Crystal Mountain having the most variety. The resort boasts a Summit House restaurant with breathtaking views of the mountains and several other cozy eateries. Mount Baker Ski Area has fairly limited options, with two lodges, Heather Meadows and White Salmon and the Raven Hut. Stevens Pass offers several dining options in the nearby Leavenworth, while Summit at Snoqualmie Mountain is filled to the brim with mouthwatering food from numerous restaurants and cafes at the resort.