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Your Guide to the Best Places to Ski Near Bothell

Notorious for fresh powder and world-class terrain, the Pacific Northwest is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a neophyte, a pro, or simply looking to ride the magic carpet and snow tube (honestly, who isn’t?), there’s a slope calling your name. To make your planning easier, we rounded up some of the best spots to ski near Bothell.

The Summit at Snoqualmie


Snoqualmie is a gem–and just a stone’s throw away from Bothell making it the perfect day trip. There are four different mountain areas: Alpental, Summit West, Summit Central, and Summit East. Each area offers terrain suitable for varying levels of skiers and snowboarders. For the more advanced, be sure to make your way over to Alpental for steep and tight backcountry options. Similar to Crystal Mountain, Snoqualmie has something for everyone and is perfect for the whole family. Pro-tip: If night skiing is your thing, then this is your spot. Snoqualmie offers the most night skiing in the US!

Distance from Bothell: 56.6 miles (approximately 58 minutes)
The Slopes: 1,994 acres, 25 lifts
Vertical Rise: 2,280 feet
Lift tickets: Winter 2023/2024 tickets now available. Check The Summit at Snoqualmie website for more information.
Amenities/other activities: Night skiing, snow tubing, nordic skiing, snowshoe trails, sno-go bikes, lessons, rental and gear shop, restaurants, bars, off-site hotels
Getting There: Southbound I-405 to I-90 eastbound
Challenge Level: Beginner to intermediate; Advanced terrain at Alpental

Crystal Mountain


While limited in apres-ski offerings, Crystal Mountain is a local favorite because of its excellent terrain and breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. It’s the largest ski resort in all of Washington and favored for its sheer variety in runs. Offering 57 runs varying in level of difficulty, Crystal Mountain is perfect for novices and pros alike. If you plan on spending all day on the slope, then Crystal Mountain is perfect for you. All in all, the vibe is family-friendly and the drive is worth the adventure.

Distance from Bothell: 86 miles (approximately 2 hours)
The Slopes: 2,600 acres, 57 runs
Vertical Rise: 2,400 feet
Daily Lift tickets: $119 - $159 for adults ages 23-69; $51 - $68 children ages 5-12; $108 - $145 ages 13-22; $51 - $68 for seniors ages 70+
Amenities/other activities: Weekend/holiday night skiing, scenic gondola rides, snowshoe trails, rental and gear shop, ski school, terrain parks, two on-mountain restaurants, day lodge options, three on-site hotels
Getting There: Crystal Mountain Blvd from Enumclaw, WA
Challenge Level: All levels; Perfect for the family

Stevens Pass


Great tree runs and options to explore backcountry attract the rugged and advanced skiers to Stevens Pass in Skykomish. If you’re familiar with the terms open bowls and pillow lines, then this might be the spot for you. While Steven Pass attracts expert winter sports enthusiasts, its beginner runs are also highly reviewed. It’s a favorite, so come prepared for crowds. 

Distance from Bothell: 65 miles (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes)
The Slopes: 1,125 acres, 52 runs
Vertical Rise: Base elevation 4,061 ft., highest elevation 5,845 ft.
Amenities/other activities: Night skiing, private mountain guide, ski school, rental and gear shop, on-mountain dining, day lodge options
Getting There: Highway 2; parking is only available for carpool vehicles with 4+ passengers on weekends, holidays, and midweek powder days.
Daily Lift Tickets: $103 - $122 for adults ages 13+; $54 - $62 for children ages 5-12
Challenge Level: Intermediate and advanced

Mt. Baker


With an average annual snowfall of 666 inches a year, Mt. Baker is recognized for its high volume of snow. In fact, from 1998 to 1999, Mt. Baker broke the world record for the most snowfall in a single season totaling 1,140 inches of snow. Although Mt. Baker is rather small, it has earned its title as a local favorite. The terrain is similar to Crystal Mountain and the runs vary from beginner to intermediate and even include a few expert level runs.  

Distance from Bothell: 122 miles (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes)
The Slopes: 1,000 acres; 31 runs
Vertical Rise: 1,500 ft.
Amenities/other activities: Rental and gear shop, ski school, 4 lodges, dining options
Getting There: Mount Baker Highway
Daily Lift Tickets: $92 for adults ages 16-59; $57 for youths ages 11-15; $39 for children ages 7-10; $54 for seniors ages 70+
Challenge Level: Beginner to intermediate; Expert terrain level

White Pass

With stunning views of Mt. Rainier and even higher elevation than Stevens Pass, White Pass is a treasure. A bit off the beaten path compared to others, White Pass tends to be less crowded with shorter lift lines- a major plus! The terrain welcomes all levels with about 80% beginner to intermediate runs, leaving 20% of the terrain for the advanced. The vibe at White Pass is laid back and the distance makes it the perfect weekend sojourn. 

Distance from Bothell: 151 miles (approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes)
The Slopes: 1,402 acres, 45 runs
Vertical Rise: 2,050 ft.
Amenities/other activities: Night skiing, snow tubing, snowshoe trails, rental and gear shop, ski school, on-site hotel, eight restaurants, pubs, RV lot
Getting There: State Route 12; Located 12 miles southeast of Mt. Rainier National Park
Daily Lift Tickets: $85 for adults ages 17-72; $57 for juniors ages 9-16; $25 for children ages 8 and under; $25 for Super Seniors ages 73+
Challenge Level: Mostly beginner to intermediate

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