Seattle’s Best Winter Escapes: Ski Resorts and Seasonal Events

Winter in Seattle is more than just misty mornings and cozy coffee shops—it’s a gateway to some of the most exciting ski locations and snow activities in the Pacific Northwest. As a local Seattle real estate expert, I love sharing fun things to do in Seattle —not just in winter, but all year round! Be sure to subscribe to our email newsletter for regular updates on seasonal events, activities, and hidden gems around the area.

I’m Emily Cressey, your local Seattle Realtor and I’m here to help make sure my Seattle friends and neighbors know how to have a good time when it comes to winter snow sports. You hear good things – but are you out there doing them?

Let’s Get You On The Slopes!

We’re going to help you get started with this guide to Skiing (downhill and cross-country), Sledding and Inner Tubing in the greater Seattle area.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier, snowboard enthusiast, or just love the winter vibe, the Seattle area offers a variety of annual ski events that promise adventure and fun for all. While it does occasionally snow in the city of Seattle and surrounding suburbs, it almost ALWAYS has a good snow pack and base for skiing in our several nearby mountain passes.

If you love the snow, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to hit the slopes and make the most of the season with these must-attend ski events in the Cascade Mountains, just 90 minutes from downtown Seattle.

Get The Gear: The Ultimate Kickoff to Your Ski Season

Get ready, Seattle ski enthusiasts! Snowvana Seattle is the ultimate pre-season event to ignite your passion for winter sports. Held annually, this exciting festival brings the ski community together for an unforgettable celebration featuring ski and snowboard gear deals, thrilling film premieres, live entertainment, and exclusive lift ticket discounts.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just getting started, Snowvana Seattle is a great place to get geared up, meet the experts and find a friend to ski with. Don’t miss your chance to get the latest kit, and get inspired for an epic ski season in Seattle!

Where: Magnuson Hangar 30, Seattle, WA

Take Some Lessons: Ski & Snowboard School At Snoqualmie Pass

When I was a kid, the Fiorini ski school offered lessons to even the tiniest student, known as “Teeny-Weeny Fiorinis.” Further back, my mother learned to ski by taking the Seattle School’s ski bus up to the pass on weekends.

Now you can learn in small group, or private lessons, and rent skis or boards, if you’re not comfortable investing big money in equipment yet.

Elevate your skiing and snowboarding skills with Webbski Ski & Snowboard School, a trusted name in winter sports instruction since 1965. Conveniently located at Summit Central on Snoqualmie Pass, just a short drive from Seattle, Webbski offers expert lessons tailored to all levels—from beginners to advanced riders.

Whether you’re mastering the basics or perfecting your turns, Webbski’s seasoned instructors ensure a fun and safe learning experience. Join the thousands of Seattle-area skiers who’ve built confidence on the slopes with Webbski, and get ready to make the most of your winter adventures.

Where: 303 N 55th St, Seattle, WA

Discover The Summit at Snoqualmie: Seattle’s Premier Family-Friendly Ski Destination

If you’re looking for a ski getaway near Seattle that’s perfect for the whole family, the Summit at Snoqualmie is your ultimate destination. Just a short drive from the city, this premier ski resort offers something for everyone, from beginner-friendly slopes to advanced terrain for seasoned skiers.

Snoqualmie is a beginner-friendly ski resort with a variety of runs ranging from green circles, and blue squares up to black diamonds. Most of the runs are short, and there aren’t too many trees, which can be dangerous to beginners. For safety, some people wear a helmet while skiing, especially in treed terrain.

With its breathtaking mountain views, dedicated snow tubing park, and excellent ski and snowboard lessons, The Summit is a top choice for families seeking winter adventure close to Seattle.

When our kids were younger, we didn’t have the time and they didn’t have the coordination for ski lessons, but we had fun taking them up to the paid inner tube run (with a rope tow) to get some serious inner tubing experience. This is at a slightly different location than the chair lifts.

Whether you’re hitting the slopes for the first time or a seasoned pro, The Summit at Snoqualmie promises an unforgettable ski experience this season. Find out about discounts for night skiing, weekday skiing, and season passes.

We have friends who homeschool and the father is a fire-fighter. He is able to take the kids skiing all the time on his days off, and has a great experience with thinner crowds. This is not a big luxury resort with a lot of lodging and ski-bunnies. It’s a more utilitarian “day trip” type of destination. For prom, at my high school, we double-dated and spent the morning before the dance learning to snow board at this hill.

Where: 1001 WA-906, Snoqualmie Pass

Stevens Pass: Seattle’s Ultimate Skiing Adventure

For serious and experienced skiers in the Seattle area, Stevens Pass is the ski resort of choice. It’s a little farther away, but it has more runs, more variety and more advanced options.

Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Stevens Pass is a must-visit ski resort just two hours from Seattle.

Known for its stunning alpine scenery and diverse terrain, this winter wonderland offers an unforgettable experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Whether you’re a family looking for kid-friendly runs, a beginner eager to take lessons, or an expert seeking thrilling powder, Stevens Pass has it all.

With annual events, scenic trails, and top-notch amenities, Stevens Pass is one of Seattle’s favorite ski destinations for winter adventures. This is where most of the high school kids who ski with their friends every weekend like to go.

Where: Stevens Pass, Summit Stevens Pass, 93001 US Hwy 2, Skykomish

Crystal Mountain Resort: Seattle’s Premier Ski Getaway

Escape to Crystal Mountain Resort, the largest ski area in Washington, just two hours from Seattle.

Thanks to our proximity to the Cascade Mountains, there are a lot of fun places to ski, and you can keep an eye on the weather to determine where you want to go and where the best powder is located.

Crystal Mountain Resort offers unparalleled skiing and snowboarding experiences for all skill levels.

From breathtaking gondola rides with views of Mount Rainier, to family-friendly terrain and challenging runs for experts, Crystal Mountain is the ultimate winter retreat. With a variety of annual events, cozy lodges, and top-tier amenities, it’s no wonder this resort is a favorite for Seattleites seeking adventure and relaxation in the snow.

Where: Crystal Mountain Resort, 33914 Crystal Mountain Blvd. Crystal Mountain, WA

Mission Ridge: A Must-Visit Ski Resort Near Seattle for Winter Fun

Experience the thrill of skiing at Mission Ridge in Central Washington, a premier ski resort located in Wenatchee, south of Leavenworth (North of Ellensburg), just 3 hours from Seattle. Known for its sunny slopes, light powder, and breathtaking views, Mission Ridge offers an unforgettable winter adventure for skiers, inner-tubers, and snowboarders of all levels. This would be a great addition to a winter trip to Leavenworth. (And don’t forget to stop into Cashmere,WA and take the tour of the Applets and Cotlets candy factory.)

With over 2,000 acres of terrain, family-friendly runs, and exciting events throughout the season, this resort is a top choice for those seeking a unique skiing experience near Seattle. Whether you’re carving down the mountain or enjoying après-ski relaxation, Mission Ridge is the perfect winter escape.

Where: 7500 Mission Ridge Rd | Wenatchee, WA 

Mt. Baker Ski Area: A Winter Paradise Near Seattle

Mount Baker is where I fell off the ski-lift as a kid. I was on a ski weekend with a friend from elementary school and there was so much powder where we sat down to get on the lift, my skis were buried and as the lift started moving, I was pulled right off. Fortunately I didn’t get hurt or go very far!

That’s why I always think of Mount Baker as a great powder destination. Mount Baker receives an average of 688 inches of snow annually. In 1998-99, it set a national and world record for the most snowfall in a year with 1,140 inches. And when it comes to powder, my instincts are right! Mount Baker is known as one of the snowiest places on Earth. It’s considered a top destination for powder skiing.

For an unforgettable skiing experience just a few hours from Seattle, Mt. Baker Ski Area is the ultimate destination. Renowned for its legendary snowfall and stunning alpine scenery, Mt. Baker offers diverse terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking thrilling runs, backcountry adventures, or a family-friendly winter escape, this ski area has it all. With its laid-back atmosphere and reputation as one of the snowiest ski areas in the world, Mt. Baker is a must-visit spot for Seattle-based ski enthusiasts looking for the perfect winter adventure.

Where: Mt. Baker Ski Area, Mt Baker Hwy | Deming, WA

White Pass Ski Resort: A Hidden Gem for Skiers Near Seattle

Discover the charm of White Pass Ski Resort, south of Mount Rainier, about 3 hours from Seattle (traffic dependent) out toward Yakima.

White Pass offers a perfect blend of family-friendly slopes, challenging runs, and breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. With 1,500 acres of diverse terrain, including perfectly groomed trails, a terrain park, and backcountry skiing options, White Pass caters to all skill levels. Families love the relaxed vibe and affordable pricing, while seasoned skiers enjoy the challenging glades and powder-filled bowls. Whether you’re a Seattle local or visiting the area, White Pass is a must-visit ski destination for an unforgettable winter adventure.

Where: White Pas, 48935 US Hwy 12, Naches, WA

Seattle residents are truly spoiled when it comes to winter activities, especially with the incredible ski resorts and seasonal events at their fingertips. From the thrilling slopes of Stevens Pass to the cozy winter festivals in nearby communities, there’s no shortage of fun and adventure during the colder months.

As your local Seattle Realtor, I’m here not just to help you find the perfect home, but also to ensure you love living in this amazing Pacific Northwest community. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying the festive atmosphere of the city, I’m excited to be a part of your journey.

Let’s connect and make your Seattle living experience as fulfilling and joyful as possible!