Snow has come to the mountains. Which WA state ski areas are finally open for operation?
Many are hoping for a White Christmas as winter weather sporadically appears in Washington state. It’s likely too soon to tell, unless you live in one of the state’s many mountain towns, some of which are already getting snow.
The start of winter means the start of snow in the Cascades and other mountainous regions in the Evergreen State. While it can be difficult to predict, winter sports enthusiasts across the region have been checking for enough snow in the mountains to head out and hit the slopes.
So which ski areas are open for recreation, and which have announced later dates?
Ski areas open in WA
Some fan favorite ski resorts have opened for daily operation. Before planning any ski trip, it is best to check online or call the resort for the most updated conditions.
▪ White Pass - Naches
Situated along Mount Rainier, White Pass is a fan-favorite and family-friendly winter recreation option. It is now open for daily operation. Limited terrain expected this week, updates are available online.
▪ Crystal Mountain - Pierce County
The largest ski resort in the state, Crystal Mountain covers 2,600 acres and 2,400 vertical feet of opportunity. It sits on the corner of Mount Rainier National Park and offers views of the Cascade Range. Open for daily operation.
▪ Summit at Snoqualmie - Snoqualmie Pass
About an hour from Seattle, the Summit at Snoqualmie boasts its variety of opportunities, several rental options and an easy environment for beginners. Now open for daily operation, however there is a full closure Dec. 11 and 12.
▪ Plain Valley - Plain
The Plain Valley Ski Trails support programs operating on the trails, including a women’s adventure club and a barrier-free youth education groups. Minors always ski for free. Now open for daily operation.
▪ Mission Ridge - Wenatchee
Seated on the east side of the Cascade Crest, Mission Ridge claims to have the highest quality snow for winter sports enthusiasts in the state. Now open for early season operations with limited openings, and scheduled to fully open Dec. 14.
▪ 49 Degrees North - Chewelah
About 45 miles from Spokane sits 49 Degrees North, a regional favorite recreation option. Early season operations began earlier this month, with a full closure between Dec. 11 and 14. The resort will offer daily operations starting Dec. 15.
▪ Methow Trails - Winthrop
Methow Trails sits in a high pocket of the North Cascades and is a popular trail running option. With spotty early season conditions, the ski area officially opened Dec. 11, with specific run reports updated online.
▪ Stevens Pass - King County
A large resort with options for all expertise levels, Stevens Pass Ski Area has “a humble attitude and humbling terrain,” according to its website. This year, opening day has been announced as Dec. 12.
▪ Mount Spokane - Mead
Terrain is being opened for skiiers at Mount Spokane, with more openings available as more snow comes down. Three lifts have been opened as of Dec. 13.
▪ Mount Baker - Deming
Recent snowfall accelerated the opening schedule, allowing enthusiasts to hit the slopes starting Dec. 14.
▪ Bluewood - Dayton
Tickets are cheaper than normal for the beginning of the season, and Dec. 14 marks the first day of early season availability.
Note: The Bluewood General Manager announced on Dec. 19 that operations must close again until the next storm hits due to lack of snowpack. They are hoping for a reopening on Christmas Eve.
Washington ski areas still closed
There are many ski options still closed, waiting for more snow cover before opening to the public. This includes several fan favorite options, like:
- Badger Mountain Ski Area
- Hurricane Ridge
- The Loup (Though you can stop by on the weekends to pick up season passes or items from the gift shop until opening.)
- Echo Valley (Opening day postponed to the 20 over lack of snow.)
This article will be updated throughout the season to reflect further openings and closings.
This story was originally published December 11, 2023 at 12:45 PM with the headline "Snow has come to the mountains. Which WA state ski areas are finally open for operation?."