Discover Nordic Skiing Worldwide
Mason Wolters
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
Mason Wolters
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
Mason Wolters
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
Mason Wolters
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
