The 13 Best Ski Resorts in Washington

Ideally situated in the heart of the Snoqualmie National Forest and a short 45-minute drive from Seattle, The Summit at Snoqualmie is one of the most popular ski areas in the Cascade Mountain range. Though its relatively low elevation often means diminished snowfall levels compared to other area mountains, it still delivers plenty of alpine fun. Along with offering 82 trails and 1,994 acres of well-groomed forested terrain, Snoqualmie offers three base areas to explore. Summit Central is known for its glades, tubes, and summit to base terrain park, while Summit East delivers miles of well-groomed trails, and Summit West is a snowboarder’s delight. The resort’s extensive night skiing operation means the fun continues long after sunset.

The largest ski resort in the state, Crystal Mountain boasts 2,600 acres of skiable terrain and an average annual snowfall of 367 inches, making it a bonafide ski lover’s paradise. Located just two hours outside Seattle, this premier ski destination offers more above-the-tree-line runs than any other resort in the area. Its diverse terrain encompasses gentle runs for beginners while delivering challenging glades and chute bowls for more seasoned skiers. And there’s plenty of backcountry skiing for those seeking an added adventure. Non-skiers can still get in on the fun with a scenic ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola or by spending the day snowshoeing.

If record-setting snowfall levels and an extended ski season are what you seek in a ski destination, then Mt. Baker is the spot for you. During the 1998-99 ski season, the mountain received an epic 1,140 inches of snow, setting a world record for the most snowfall within one season. On average, skiers can expect an impressive 680 inches of snow at this North Cascades resort. Unfortunately, those seeking a true ski resort experience won’t find it at Mt. Baker. The closest lodging options are nearly 30 miles away. But what the resort lacks in amenities it more than makes up for by offering some of the state’s most extreme alpine conditions.

While most of the 37 trails offered at Stevens Pass are designed for intermediate or advanced skiers, about 11 percent of the runs cater to beginners. Along with adequate green trails, the resort houses a dedicated learning area and a well-respected ski school for those new to the sport. The mountain offers 1,125 acres of fresh tracks with an average annual snowfall of 450 inches. In addition to alpine skiing, the Nordic Center is available to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. With limited slope-side accommodations, many visitors stay in nearby Leavenworth, the well-known Bavarian-themed village.

Known locally as “A Big Little Mountain,” White Pass offers runs suited for beginner- to advanced-level skiers in a small, easily accessible, family-friendly environment. Choose from 47 trails serviced by eight lifts, though only one trail exceeding 1,000 feet. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along the Nordic Center’s ten miles of marked trails. Convenient slope-side lodging accommodations can be made at Village Inn, and there’s plenty of dining options right on the mountain.

Boasting the largest accessible ski terrain in the Evergreen State, 49 Degrees North encompasses 2,325 acres of skiable terrain. In addition to its impressive acreage, this resort’s northeastern Washington location provides one of the best chances for a rare Bluebird Day in the Pacific Northwest. As if that’s not enough to entice skiers, the resort experiences consistently dry powdery conditions and ample fresh snowfall. 49 Degrees North has been a skier’s paradise since 1937, and today offers 54 runs serviced by eight ski lifts along with two terrain parks.

Mount Spokane is all about community support and volunteer service as the region’s only non-profit ski area. Located just 25 miles outside Spokane, this popular ski area is the closest resort to the city. It’s credited with running the world’s first double chair lift, which opened in 1947. Today Mount Spokane offers five double chair lifts to efficiently transport skiers to its summit. Located within Mount Spokane State Park the resort encompasses 1,425 skiable acres, a vertical drop of over 2,000 feet, and 45 trails to choose from, catering mainly to intermediate level skiers.

In a region typically known for its wet conditions, powder hounds flock to Mission Ridge for its rare, powdery dry snow, These sought-after conditions are attributed to its inland location and high altitude. At 4,570 feet, Mission Ridge boasts Washington state’s highest base area. Along with uniquely desirable ski conditions, Mission Ridge holds a storied past. In 1944, a B-24 Bomber conducting night training crashed into the mountain. Much of the debris remains visible to skiers along the trails. Meanwhile, many of the runs, like Bomber Bowl, are named after this tragic event, and various plaques are displayed to honor the six crew members.

Bluewood may be one of the smaller ski areas in Washington, but to many it’s considered the state’s best-kept ski secret. Ideally situated within the Blue Mountains just 20 miles from Dayton and nearby the charming town of Walla Walla, Bluewood’s 530 acres of skiable terrain delivers the ideal snowy escape. With a base elevation of 4,545 feet, this southeastern Washington ski area is credited as the second-highest base elevation in the state. This hidden gem offers short lift lines, uncrowded trails, varying terrain and some of the best glade skiing in the Pacific Northwest.

With short lift lines and plenty of open space on the trails, skiers enjoy the relaxed, laid-back vibe found at Echo Valley. This small ski area, located near Chelan, is a non-profit resort relying solely on volunteer support. In operation since 1955, Echo Valley has been creating family ski memories for several generations. The resort’s three rope tows and a Poma lift provide young skiers with easy transportation to the mountaintop. In addition to alpine skiing, visitors can continue the outdoor fun with a visit to the resort’s six-lane tubing hill before taking a break from the cold by dining at the resort’s day lodge and warming up by the roaring fire.

With only 10 skiable acres and a mere 325 feet of vertical descent, Badger Mountain is far from Washington’s highest peak or largest resort, but it holds its own attractions. The resort’s short lift lines and uncrowded slopes offer the ideal environment for those just learning the sport. Badger is best suited for beginner and intermediate level skiers and doesn’t offer the challenging terrain found at larger resorts. This resort is perfect for young families as it only offers two rope tows and a T-bar with no chair lifts or modern lifts available which can often be challenging for little ones. With a relatively low elevation, the mountain doesn’t see the snowfall levels found at other area resorts, which means ski season at Badger Mountain typically doesn’t begin until January.