Washington State Snow Skiing and Snow Boarding Resorts

Washington State receives large amounts of snow, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. One of Washington’s ski areas, Mt. Baker, recorded more snow in the 98-99 season than any other place in the world! Snow skiers can take advantage of Washington’s winter at many excellent ski resorts.

Here are our favorites:

Mt. Baker Ski Area
360-734-6771
www.mtbaker.us

Long famous with the snowboarding crowd, Mt. Baker offers plenty for snow skiers, too. This laid-back area has no base-area lodging. But locals and visitors from the nearby towns adore this place for its views, varied terrain, annual Banked Slalom competition, and its deep, deep snow.

Stevens Pass
206.812.4510
www.stevenspass.com

Washington’s Stevens Pass is easily reached from the city of Seattle or the town of Leavenworth. It has a 450″ annual average of snow, 37 major runs, and an excellent terrain park. It provides extensive lit runs for nightskiing, and generous hours- if your legs are up to it, you can ski from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Crystal Mountain
(360) 663-3050
http://www.crystalmt.com

Crystal Mountain is Washington’s largest ski area, with 3,100 vertical feet and 2,300 acres. Crystal mountain’s skiers are kept smiling with the high-speed lifts, cozy lodging options, extensive backcountry areas, and exquisite views of the snowy Mt. Rainier volcano.

Winthrop cross-country skiing
Methow Valley Sport Trails Association
http://www.mvsta.com/index.html

Winthrop in Washington State has a resort of almost 200km of groomed trails, on flats and rolling hills. Stay at local inns, or ski out to backcountry huts. For the hut-to-hut system, you can either pack in your gear yourself, or have it hauled out for you.