Skiing and Snowboarding Featured in
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. 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 hot autumn weather often results in openings delayed until mid-December. Generally, you can expect the best snow conditions from mid-January through February.
Crystal Mountain
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. Its main attraction is the stunning views of Mt. Rainier, which are so good, you'll want to stop skiing and just 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, for sure. 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.
vertical: 3,100 feet (945 m) area: 2,600 acres (1050 ha) runs: 80 (11% easiest, 54% more difficult, 35% most difficult) lifts: 11 season: mid-December to mid-April
Mount Baker Ski Area
Mount Baker Ski Area is located 130 miles (212 km) from Seattle, which is rather 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 thinner crowds, than at bigger Northwest ski resorts.
vertical: 1,589 feet (484 m) area: 1,000 acres (400 ha) runs: 31 (easiest: 24%, medium: 45%, difficult: 31%) lifts: 8 chairs, 2 handle tows season: mid-December to May
Stevens Pass
Stevens Pass is located in 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). A ski trip to Stevens Pass can be combined with the visit to the nearby Bavarian village of Leavenworth where snowshoeing or snowtubing is available for the whole family.
vertical: 1,800 feet (548 m) area: 1,125 acres (455 ha) runs: 52 (beginner: 11%, intermediate: 54%, advanced: 35%) lifts: 10 season: early December to early April
Snoqualmie Mountain
Snoqualmie Mountain is located in just a 45-minute drive from the city and is often referred to as "home mountain" by Seattle residents. It 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.
vertical: 2,280 feet (695 m) area: 2,000 acres (809 ha) runs: 62 (easiest: 4%, more difficult: 45%, most difficult: 41%) lifts: 25 season: mid-November (sometimes mid-December) to mid-April
