These 5 Washington Ski Resorts Have The Most Powder Days
Find out which ski resorts in Washington have the most powder days (over the past 10 years). You won’t believe how much snow these resorts get each year!
The number of powder days a ski resort receives is a crucial factor that’s a testament to the quality of the snow and the overall experience.
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, most enthusiasts often think of the resorts of Colorado or Utah due to their central location in the United States. Because of this, Washington, home to the snowiest mountains in the U.S., often gets overlooked.
But we know better. As avid skiers and snowboarders, Mike and I have spent a lot of time visiting ski towns all over the world. We love the unique and quaint appeal of these little towns just as much as we love to shred the slopes on the mountaintops.
While we’re partial to the ski town where we met and called home, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, we can’t deny that Washington boasts some epic snow that can’t be beat.
Washington Ski Resorts With The Most Powder Days (Over The Past Decade)
We’ve crunched the numbers to bring you the top five ski resorts in Washington with the most powder days over the past decade.
1. Crystal Mountain – 739 days (73.9 days per year)
At the top of the list is Crystal Mountain, boasting an impressive 739 powder days over the past 10 years. This equates to an average of 73.9 days per year. It’s no wonder why Crystal Mountain is a favorite among snowsports enthusiasts.
Located in the Cascade Range to the southeast of Seattle, Crystal Mountain’s consistent powder days make it a paradise for winter sports lovers.
As Washington’s largest ski resort, you won’t have to worry about congested crowds. Crystal Mountain features over 2,600 acres of skiable terrain and with over 50 runs, there’s no shortage of fresh tracks to carve.
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2. Mt. Baker – 705 days (70.5 days per year)
Mt. Baker takes the second spot on our list, with 705 powder days over the past decade. That translates to a whopping annual average of 70.5 days.
Known for its record-breaking snowfall, Mt. Baker is a haven for powder hounds. During the 1998-99 ski season, Mt. Baker accumulated a remarkable 1,140 inches of snowfall and became officially recognized as the world record for snowfall in a single season.
This resort’s reputation for heavy snowfall in Washington has made it a global attraction. But Mt. Baker’s powdery slopes aren’t the only reason snow junkies love this resort.
Mt. Baker’s mountainous landscapes are nothing short of spectacular. As you drive up the mountain to the ski resort, you’ll lose count of how many times your jaw drops from the sheer beauty of the landscapes that surround you.
3. White Pass – 606 days (60.6 days per year)
White Pass is more than an adventure haven at the top of Mount Rainier, it’s also a magnet for snow and has accumulated 606 powder days in the past ten years.
On average, White Pass gets about 60.6 powder days each year. This hidden gem in the Washington wilderness is the perfect destination for those seeking unspoiled snow.
Mike and I have been avid ski resort enthusiasts for years (Mike skis and I snowboard). One of the best aspects of trekking to the top of a mountain is being able to look out over the picturesque scenes below.
Located 12 miles southeast of Mount Rainier National Park at the peak of US HWY 12, a national scenic byway, White Pass is the cream of the crop when it comes to picturesque locations.
As one of the ski resorts in Washington with the most powder days and terrain suitable for all skill levels, White Pass is a fantastic choice for a family ski trip.
4. Stevens Pass Resort – 605 days (60.5 days per year)
If you’re looking for true winter wonderland vibes, Stevens Pass Resort has you covered.
Located in the Cascade Range of Washington, Stevens Pass Resort received 605 powder days in the last decade. That equals an average of 60.5 days per year, making this resort in the top five ski resorts in Washington to receive the most powder days.
Boasting an impressive 460 inches of annual snowfall, the site offers the thrill of night skiing and features diverse and exciting terrain, complete with thrilling chutes, expansive bowls, and the most exceptional tree skiing in the Northwest.
Zoom past old-growth evergreens as you glide from groomed runs to challenging glades. Stevens Pass Resort offers a myriad of experiences guaranteeing there’s something here for every alpine addict.
5. 49 Degrees North – 485 days (48.5 days per year)
Rounding out our top five is 49 Degrees North. This Washington ski resort has accumulated 485 powder days in the last 10 years and averages 48.5 days per year.
Located in the Selkirk Mountains, about an hour outside Spokane, this resort is a hidden treasure for those in search of powder-filled adventures.
49 Degrees North offers unpretentious charm and abundant powder, making it a must-visit spot for slope seekers looking to fill their 2023-24 season calendar.
Additional Washington Powder Day Stats
While Washington might be most known for its rainy weather, this PNW state certainly pulls through when it comes to superb powder playgrounds.
We’ve listed the top five ski resorts in Washington with the most powder days, but there’s more where that came from.
Below are five more ski resorts that receive an abundance of fresh, fluffy snow each year, making up the rest of the top 10 ski resorts in Washington with the most powder days:
- Alpental – 484 days (48.4 days per year)
- The Summit at Snoqualmie – 448 days (44.8 days per year)
- Mission Ridge – 385 days (38.5 days per year)
- Bluewood – 374 days (37.4 days per year)
- Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park – 371 days (37.1 days per year)
These resorts may not have made it to the top five, but they still provide a fantastic winter sports experience for those who appreciate the magic of fresh powder.
What are powder days skiing?
A “powder day” refers to a day when there is a significant amount of fresh, dry, velvety snow on the slopes. This type of snow is often called “powder,” and it’s highly prized by skiers and snowboarders for its light and fluffy texture.
Powder days are typically the result of recent snowfall. They create ideal conditions for an exhilarating and enjoyable skiing or snowboarding experience.
What time of year is best for skiing in Washington?
Like any ski area, when the slopes in Washington open is largely dependent on the type of weather received in the fall. In general, ski resorts in Washington open up as early as Thanksgiving and can stay open as late as mid-April. Some high-altitude resorts might even stay open as late as May.
However, overall, the best month for skiing in Washington is February. This point in the winter sees the most consistent snowfall, making it ideal for powder days and pristine skiing conditions.
What months can you ski in Washington?
In Washington, you can generally ski from November through April. The skiing season can vary slightly depending on the resort’s location and elevation. But these months offer the best chances for enjoying the state’s beautiful slopes.
The Wrap-Up: Washington Ski Resorts With The Most Powder Days
Whether you’re like Mike and looking forward to clicking into your skis this year, or a snowboarder like me, keep these five Washington resorts in mind for the 2023-24 season.
If the last 10 years can show us anything, it’s that these five resorts are a magnet for champagne powder. Here, you’ll find plenty of fresh snow to carve your way through the beautiful landscapes of Washington.
So, gear up and get ready for an unforgettable snowy adventure in the Evergreen State!