Snow Style: Downhill
Resorts across the state offer a multitude of runs as well as day lessons for those skiing or snowboarding for the first time. Near Snoqualmie at the Summit at Snoqualmie and Alpental, find four faces and 1,994 skiable acres. At Stevens Pass, the namesake Stevens Pass Resort offers three faces and night runs, while family-friendly White Pass in Naches does kid clinics for tiny skiers and snowboarders. What’s more, you can enjoy epic views of Mount Rainier from the slopes. The Crystal Mountain Resort is the state’s largest ski resort with more than 50 runs and 2,600 acres. But for a resort that’s renowned for powder and backcountry, try the Mt. Baker Ski Area east of Glacier. It holds the world record for most annual snowfall from 1998 and is a favorite among locals for its bowls and double blacks. In Chewelah, 49 Degrees North is legendary for its gladed terrain and in-bounds backcountry. Mission Ridge near Wenatchee benefits from plenty of sunshine for light, dry powder, as does Dayton’s Bluewood. where blue skies meet glade areas, several freestyle terrain parks, and ungroomed cat-skiing on Vintner’s Ridge.
Snow Style: Nordic Skiing:
Accessible from Mazama, Winthrop, and Twisp , the Methow Trails cross-country system is the largest in the country, with more than 120 miles of groomed tracks. Rentals, lessons, and even passes to stay overnight in ski huts are also available. Find 36 more miles of Nordic trails at the Mt. Spokane Cross-Country Ski Park in Spokane. Also available here: “skijoring” or Nordic dog-pulled skiing.
Snow Style: Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling:
Not quite ready to zoom downhill? Snowshoeing is a gentle introduction to snowy pursuits. At Mt. Rainier National Park, rangers lead snowshoe walks from the Paradise visitor area. The park also has a snowplay and sledding area for little ones and kids at heart. Ski areas like the Summit at Snoqualmie and Hurricane Ridge outside Port Angeles offer tubing and low-key rope tows, while 120-plus Sno-Parks across the state feature sledding hills, snowmobiling, and even dog-sled teams.
By Angela Cabotaje
Photo: RomanKhomlyak/beautifulwashington.co
