In the Pacific Northwest, Washington state has various mountain ranges. The Cascade Mountains consist of a series of snow-covered volcanic peaks running along with west side of the state. The Selkirk Mountains lie in the northeast corner of the state, bordering Canada and Idaho. Whether skiers are seeking downhill or cross country skiing, Washington state has plenty of places for skiing vacations.
Chewelah, Washington
Located in the northeastern section of Washington, Chewelah is a small town in the Selkirk Range that receives an average of 301 inches of yearly snowfall. The skiing vacation area 49 Degrees North accommodates downhill and cross country skiers. The Alpine ski area offers 75 marked trails, from beginners to experts. The Nordic area provides 10 miles of trails. Nearby accommodations include Mountain View Lodge, eight miles away. The lodge offers rooms with queen-sized feather beds and home-like furnishings. A lodge area with a wood stove creates a social area.
White Pass, Cascade Mountains
The Cascade Mountains surround White Pass in the Snoqualmie National Forest. Approximately 50 miles west of Yakima, Washington, White Pass ski area offers both Alpine and Nordic trails. The average snowfall of 350 inches keeps the 6,000-foot summit in a steady supply of snow. Near the ski area, the White Pass Village Inn provides kitchenettes, private balconies and access to the ski trails. The outdoor pool is heated to spa temperature for warming up after a day of skiing.
Mount Rainier
With more than 700 inches of snow a year, Mount Rainier is a volcano destination for snow lovers and skiers. Adding to the mountain's fame is its height of more than 14,000 feet and its year-round snow cover. Advanced skiers have the option of skiing from the summit. Beginning to intermediate skiers can access easy-to-intermediate trails either on the mountain or near lodging. Crystal Mountain Ski Resort offers 50 ski runs and 10 miles of cross country trails. Stay near the base of the mountain or in a vacation rental and ski to the slopes.
Mount Baker
The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers skiing on the west side of the Cascades between Mount Rainier and Canada. Skiers vacation there for old-growth forests, Alpine meadows and mountain scenery. Mount Baker cross country skiers have more than 119 miles of trails. The Mount Baker Ski Area trails are designated as expert, intermediate and beginner. Nearby accommodations include hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts and vacation cabin rentals. The Inn at Mount Baker provides guests with organic and locally grown food on the restaurant menu, including home-made muffins and granola.
Considerations
All skiers, whether beginning, intermediate or advanced, prepare for their vacations by checking the mountain conditions. Weather can change quickly, causing storms and white-out conditions. As the Mount Baker "Mountain Policies" states on its website, "As a visitor here, you will encounter an ever-changing and at times severe mountain environment. Your safety is NOT guaranteed." The site includes Washington state law regarding skiing, a responsibility code and detailed safety information, as well as tips for driving on winter roads. Knowing how to stay safe enhances the skiing vacation for all.
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