Skiing and Snowboarding in Washington 2025

Washington receives the most snow in the United States. Mt. Rainier alone gets a record 646 inches (1,640 cm) of winter precipitation, which makes Washington ski resorts so desirable to snowboarders and skiers from all over the US. Start your winter adventure at the pristine slopes of the Cascades range, check out the isolated Olympic Peninsula, and discover the Blue Mountains located on the border with Oregon and Idaho.

Ski Season

The ski season at some Washington resorts starts as early as late November, however, in the last few years, many have delayed openings till December due to warm autumns. Skiing and snowboarding are possible till mid-April. At a few high-altitude resorts, you can ski even in early May. The snow conditions are the best in February.

East Cascades: Wenatchee–Mission Ridge

Mission Ridge is one of the largest ski resorts in Washington. It offers over 2,000 skiable acres (800 ha) to conquer. The resort is known for its combination of powder and sun: 200 inches (510 cm) of snow per year and more than 300 sunny days. Night skiing is available on Saturdays. Here you can find the most fantastic backcountry skiing and a laid back atmosphere.

vertical: 2,250 feet (686 m) area: 2,000 acres (800 ha) runs: 36 (easiest: 10%, more difficult: 60%, difficult: 30%) lifts: 4 chairlifts, 2 tows season: late November to early April ski pass: start at $69 per day rentals: from $31

Crystal Mountain, Mount Rainier National Park

Crystal Mountain is the biggest ski resort in Washington. Its main attraction is the stunning view of Mt. Rainier, which is so perfect, 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 memorable for everyone in your family. 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 (1,050 ha) runs: 80 (easiest: 11%, more difficult: 54%, most difficult: 35%) lifts: 11 season: mid-December to mid-April ski pass: start at $31 per day rentals: from $60

The Summit at Snoqualmie (Seattle Area)

The Summit at Snoqualmie is located just 45 minutes from Seattle. One of its key advantages is its accessibility, making it an excellent choice for day trips. The resort offers a wide range of terrain across four base areas: Summit West, Summit Central, Summit East, and Alpental. The Summit is known for its night skiing, extensive beginner and intermediate terrain, and the more advanced slopes at Alpental, which attract experienced skiers with challenging steeps and backcountry access. Popular runs like Nash Gate at Alpental and the scenic Silver Fir area provide diverse experiences for all skill levels.

vertical: 2,280 feet (694 m) area: 1,994 acres (800 ha) runs: 62 (beginner: 37%, intermediate: 45%, advanced: 18%) lifts: 18 season: Mid-December to mid-April ski pass: start at $105 rentals: $50 per day for adults, $35 for juniors

North Cascades: Mount Baker Ski Area

Mount Baker Ski Area is worth visiting because it 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 stunning views at Mt. Baker are great. However, you have to pick your timing carefully, because the mountain is not that high, and that 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 other larger 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 ski pass: start at $94.27 rentals: from $60

Leavenworth and Stevens Pass

Stevens Pass is famous for its dry powder over the Cascade Crest. The resort also offers night skiing, terrain parks, and beautiful views of over 1,000 skiable acres (400 ha). A ski trip to Stevens Pass can be combined with a visit to the nearby Bavarian village of Leavenworth and snowshoeing or snow tubing 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 ski pass: start at $159 per day rentals: from $82

Blue Mountains: Bluewood Ski Area

If you are not from the Northwest, you probably didn't hear of the Blue Mountains, located on the border between Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. That's why Ski Bluewood boasts thinner crowds and affordability. The resort is located in southeastern Washington and is an excellent option for families and beginners. It's known for beautiful trees and dry fluffy snow.

vertical: 1,125 feet (342 m) area: 400 acres (160 ha) runs: 24 (beginner: 25%, intermediate: 45%, advanced: 30%) lifts: 4 season: early December to early April ski pass: start at $65 per day rentals: from $45

White Pass Ski Area

White Pass Ski Area is a beloved, family-friendly resort located near Mount Rainier in Washington. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views, White Pass offers a mix of terrain perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. With stunning vistas of Mount Rainier and a well-balanced selection of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, the resort provides a more relaxed skiing experience. It also boasts a high elevation, ensuring good snow conditions throughout the season. The Nordic Center offers groomed cross-country trails, and the Paradise Basin expansion added more diverse and exciting terrain for intermediate and advanced skiers.

vertical: 2,000 feet (600 m) area: 1,402 acres runs: 45 (beginner: 33%, intermediate: 45%, advanced: 22%) lifts: 8 season: Late November to mid-April ski pass: $85 (full-day adult) rentals: $45 per day for adults, $35 for juniors