Washington

The Most Challenging Ski Resorts in North America

The toughest ski resorts in North America will turn your idea of what a physical trail can be upside down. In this piece, we call out the 10 most extreme mountains out there—and explain why they’re so difficult.

North America Is Having a Historically Bad Snow Year So Far. Here’s What This Means.

Every major US and Canada ski resort has had a slow start to the season. In this piece, we go through each region one by one and explain the current situation on the ground.

Why Washington and Oregon Have No Real Destination Ski Resorts

The US states of Washington and Oregon offer multiple ski mountains of various shapes, sizes and terrain types. So why is no one hopping on a plane to ski or ride here?

North America’s Ski Season Has Seen a Significant Rebound. Will It Last?

A series of very wintry weather events have given much needed jump starts to ski seasons across Canada and the US. However, a number of less-than-ideal factors have reared their ugly heads over the past few weeks.

Epic Passes Debut for 2024-25 With Minimal Changes and Higher Prices

Access will remain similar to last year, meaning Epic’s terms will likely continue to undercut its main competitor, the Ikon Pass, although prices have increased across all levels of passes.

Ikon Pass Debuts for 2024-25 with Minimal Changes; Crystal Back to Unlimited

Despite some fears stemming from its pending acquisition by Alterra, Arapahoe Basin remains a non-unlimited partner on Ikon’s full and Base Pass products.

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.