The most diverse terrain in Washington State can be found around the Stevens Pass ski area. Strategically located in the north-central part of the Cascade Mountain range, the Stevens Pass Ski Resort is one of the premiere ski destinations in the Pacific Northwest. The dry cold air from the east creates perfect powdery snow. The quality of the snow is matched by the amount of snowfall, which averages 450 inches a year; a full 100 inches than some of the neighboring ski areas.

Over the past 65 years, Stevens Pass has evolved from a tiny operation to a world-class ski resort, complete with 37 main ski runs, ten ski lifts, three charming lodges at the base of the mountain, and over 1,100 acres of prime ski resort. It is no wonder Stevens Pass Ski Resort sees repeat visitors every weekend during the ski season.

Set within the boundaries of two forests, the Stevens Pass Ski area is filled with Hemlock, Pacific Silver Fir and Sub-Alpine Fir. After a snowfall, the trees are covered in a light, dry, powder, creating a winter wonderland. You will not feel uncomfortable in this weather, which is generally a comfortable 20 degrees.

Stevens Pass is in the mountains, so the elevations are higher, which can translate into colder and less predictable weather. If you're driving here, be sure to bring snow chains for your vehicle, and check weather reports before you venture into the mountains. Having a four wheel or a sports utility vehicle can help you navigate the snowy terrain more easily.

If you're looking for affordable lodging options while you're skiing at the Stevens Pass Ski area, you can stay at the Skykomish Hotel. This historic building, built in 1904, was home to workers of the Great Northern Railroad. This hotel has a great deal of history and is still in use today. There is an excellent restaurant as well as a bar onsite. The restaurant has fluffy, delicious pancakes in the morning and excellent seafood pastas at night. Only 16 miles from the Stevens Pass ski resort, staying here is worth the drive, and the Skykomish Hotel is only going to be more impressive once its renovation has been completed. Added touches of luxury, like the fine art that fills this building, or the mouth-watering dishes prepared by the fantastic chef, only enhance what is already a sumptuous retreat.

If you've decided that you want to visit the Steven's Pass ski area, there are a couple things to consider. The months of January and February sees the most weekend traffic out of the entire season. Skiing is an expensive sport, and an average day can cost you upwards of $100 for passes, lift tickets, ski rental, lodging, food and gasoline. You can help save money by bringing at least some snacks or some type of food with you. You can save even more by purchasing discount lift tickets. You can find these on the internet or in sporting goods stores in Washington State. A weekday season pass is only $250 for the season. By getting a hold of discount lift tickets and buying a season pass, you can save a lot of money

Once you've set up your lodging, bought some supplies, and have your discount lift tickets in hand, you are ready to go. Taking US Highway 2 is one way to get to Stevens Pass Ski area, which is about 78 miles east of Seattle. Or, you can take 520 if you are coming from Seattle. After the lake, get on 405 north, and take the Exit 23. This exit takes you to Highway 522 in Monroe. There is where you can junction to Highway 2, after which the Stevens Pass ski resort is only 50 miles away.

The Stevens Pass is open seven days a week; from 9am to 4pm. Night skiing begins at 3pm.