Discover Washington

Backcountry Skiing

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Crystal Mountain

Crystal Mountain is just a two-hour drive from Seattle and provides countless opportunities for backcountry adventures, whether you’re using the lifts or earning your turns. When the snow at Snoqualmie gets heavy and damp, the higher elevation and colder temperatures at Crystal can make the extra drive worth considering. On clear days, the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier are hard to beat.

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Mount Adams

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Mount Saint Helens

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Mount Rainier

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Snoqualmie Pass

Just an hour east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass is a backcountry skier’s paradise, offering a mix of rugged terrain and more accessible slopes. The proximity to the city and breathtaking views make it a popular destination, so it’s not uncommon to encounter crowds, especially on weekends. However, if you’re willing to venture off the main routes, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for solitude and untracked lines. For a classic experience, skin up to Snow Lake on a clear, low-avalanche-risk day. But be prepared — this spot draws plenty of fellow skiers, so arrive early if you want a parking spot and first tracks.

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Stevens Pass

Steven’s Pass opens the door to a vast expanse of remote mountain terrain, offering thrilling backcountry skiing alongside mellow runs that are perfect for beginners. For an introduction to this area, check out Yodelin or Skyline Ridge. If you're looking for something more advanced, look at Jim Hill or Lichtenberg Mountain.

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Blewett Pass

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Mount Baker

Mt. Baker provides an expansive playground with terrain that spans a wide range of elevations and aspects. Beyond its stunning beauty, it boasts record-breaking snowfall and a wealth of terrain suited for intermediate to advanced skiers. While it’s a bit of a drive from Seattle, the reward is quick access to the heart of the mountains, where endless possibilities await. For those with a lift pass, there’s also plenty of sidecountry to explore.

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North Cascades

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Nordic Skiing

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Stevens Pass Nordic Center

A perfect destination for beginners learning cross-country skiing, with challenging trails to keep experienced skiers entertained. Stevens Pass Nordic Center is an ideal spot for those new to cross-country skiing, offering rentals and lessons to help beginners get started. However, advanced skiers will also find plenty to enjoy, including seven expert-level trails—a rare offering. One standout trail, Switch Back , is a downhill-only route featuring sharp turns and high speeds, providing a thrilling experience (with a need for caution!). For something unique, there’s even a biathlon range, combining skiing and marksmanship, inspired by Scandinavian military traditions. Distance from Seattle: 83 miles (about a two-hour drive). Pass requirements: A trail pass is required and can be purchased at the Nordic Center. An Epic Pass also qualifies. Amenities/other activities: Snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and easy access to Stevens Pass’ base area. Challenge level: Stevens Pass stands out for its diverse trail options suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a first-timer on cross-country skis or a seasoned skier refining your technique, there’s something here to challenge and engage you. View Trail Report stevenspass.com

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Mason Wolters

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Summit at Snoqualmie Nordic Center

A great mix of Nordic trails near Snoqualmie’s lively downhill ski base areas. While The Summit at Snoqualmie is best known for downhill skiing, it also boasts 50 kilometers of well-groomed Nordic trails for both classic and skate-skiing. Starting from the Summit Nordic Center near Summit East, the terrain is varied, with most trails rated “more difficult” but still manageable for those comfortable on hills. For advanced skiers, there are even black diamond trails to provide a thrilling challenge. Beginners are also welcome, with lessons and equipment rentals available to help newcomers ease into the sport. This convenient location near Seattle makes Snoqualmie ideal for groups or families with mixed interests—Nordic skiers can hit the trails while others snowboard, tube, or enjoy downhill skiing nearby. Distance from Seattle: 60 miles (about a one-hour drive). Pass details: Full-day passes are $27 for adults and $22 for youths/seniors (9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.). Afternoon passes (noon to 3:30 p.m.) are $23 for adults and $21 for youths/seniors. Kids ski for free. Equipment rentals: Nordic and skate-ski packages (skis, boots, poles) are available for full or half-day use. Amenities/other activities: Snowshoeing, tubing, and downhill skiing/snowboarding are all easily accessible. Challenge level: Mostly intermediate terrain with a few advanced trails for seasoned skiers. Beginners will find it approachable thanks to lessons and rentals at the Nordic Center. summitatsnoqualmie.com

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Mason Wolters

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Cabin Creek Nordic Ski Area

Challenging terrain, competitive ski races, and the historic Kongsberger Ski Club. Cabin Creek Nordic Ski Area, located just off I-90, is maintained by the Kongsberger Ski Club on U.S. Forest Service and Nature Conservancy land. The Kongsbergers, founded in 1954 by a group of Norwegian ski jumpers led by Olav Ulland, have long promoted both recreational and competitive cross-country skiing. This heritage reflects the area’s terrain, which is best suited for experienced skiers who are confident navigating hills, turns, and yielding to faster skiers. While much of the trail network leans intermediate to advanced, there’s a beginner-friendly section called The Road , offering 4.6 kilometers of easier terrain for practice. Cabin Creek is also a hub for Nordic racing, hosting three annual events: the Gunnar Hagen Memorial in January, the Kongsberger Stampede in February, and the Ozbaldy 50k in March. It’s a great spot for skiers looking to get into racing as events continue to return post-pandemic. Distance from Seattle: 69 miles (about a one-hour drive). Pass requirements: A Sno-Park permit and a Special Groomed Trails Pass ($40 each) are required. While needing both may feel cumbersome, the grooming ensures a great experience. The Groomed Trails Pass also grants access to other popular Nordic areas like Hyak, Crystal Springs, and Mount Spokane—making it a cost-effective option for frequent skiers. Amenities/other activities: Minimal amenities and no equipment rentals. Cabin Creek is for skiers who bring their own gear and know their way around cross-country skis. True beginners might prefer a full-service Nordic center elsewhere. Challenge level: Cabin Creek offers advanced and intermediate terrain rarely found in cross-country skiing. Trails like Mount Ozbaldy are experts-only, while others require comfort with hills and tight turns. Beginners will find The Road manageable, but the area overall is best suited for confident skiers seeking a challenge. Grooming Report

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Mason Wolters

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Plain Valley XC Ski Trails

Relaxed, family-friendly trails with a unique hardware store twist. Plain offers 25 kilometers of easy-to-intermediate routes perfect for families and beginners. Managed by a local hardware store that rents out ski gear during the winter, the area stands out for its approachable, welcoming vibe. With shorter distances and a “ski playground” designed for kids, Plain is one of the most family-friendly in Washington. Distance from Seattle: 106 miles (around a two-and-a-half-hour drive). Pass requirements: Day passes cost $20 for adults, with kids skiing for free. Snowshoeing passes are $10. Ski rentals are $20 for adults and $16 for kids. Amenities/other activities: Lessons are available ($50 for an individual, $35 to add another skier). Snowshoeing is another option, and the trails are close to other Nordic areas if you want to explore further. Challenge level: These trails are mostly easy, with a few intermediate sections. Ideal for kids, beginners, and skiers looking for a relaxed, low-key experience. Grooming Report

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