Washington

Initial Impressions: Washington State Resorts

We share our initial thoughts on Washington’s Crystal, Stevens Pass, Summit at Snoqualmie, Alpental, and Mount Baker after hitting them on a Pacific Northwest road trip.

Ikon Announces 2021-22 Passes, Retains COVID Adventure Assurance

Earlier today, Alterra released the Ikon Pass product suite for the 2021-22 season. Prices and policies remain similar to this year’s passes, although Crystal drops from unlimited to 5-day access on the Ikon Base Pass. Sales start March 11.

Reservation Restrictions Lifted at Several Ikon Resorts

Access to Aspen/Snowmass, Brighton, Crystal, and Winter Park is now completely reservation-free. Parking reservations have been completely eliminated at Killington and Pico, while these restrictions have been considerably relaxed at Copper, Eldora, and Snowbird.

Vail Resorts Announces 2021-22 Epic Pass Suite, Cutting All Prices by 20%

Earlier today, Vail Resorts announced its suite of pass products for the 2021-22 winter season. All Epic Pass products have received a 20% price drop compared to last season, and a new entry-level Epic Day Pass has been introduced.

Last Day to Defer 2020-21 Ikon Pass to 2021-22

Tomorrow, April 11, 2021, is the last day for 2020-21 Ikon Pass holders who did not use their pass this season to defer the credit to the 2021-22 season. Credits will start appearing in passholder accounts on April 19.

It’s Washington Week at PeakRankings! Here’s What’s Going Down.

This week, we’re integrating a brand new state into our rankings! Each day from Monday to Friday, we’re releasing a review of a Washington resort we visited this winter.

Summit at Snoqualmie

Really more of a large hill than a mountain, this area offers a solid learning environment for Seattle-area residents. Destination-goers should look elsewhere.

Alpental

This small resort offers incredible advanced and expert terrain close to Seattle. However, weekend crowds are a major problem.

Stevens Pass

Despite limited parking and a short vertical drop, this modestly-sized Washington ski area punches above its weight thanks to generous accumulation and demanding terrain. Clear skies are rare due to perennial fog.

Mount Baker

While it doesn’t even try to offer a true resort experience, this remote Washington area receives truly astounding snowfall totals each season and offers some of the most extreme terrain in the state.

Crystal

Despite some notable lift capacity shortcomings, this decently-sized resort offers one of the most well-rounded experiences in Washington state.

49 Degrees North

Despite its dated lift infrastructure and rural setting, this Northeast Washington resort offers impressive intermediate and advanced terrain at a reasonable price.