Stevens Pass
Overview
Stevens Pass is Seattle's powder stash. When Pacific storms come in from the Puget Sound, they hit the Cascades and dump the most snow right at Stevens - the weather is more aggressive here than at Crystal Mountain to the south. The terrain is genuine - 1,125 acres of real mounta...
Ski Resort
Golf Course
Highlights
- 1,125 acres
- Abundant snow
- Night skiing
- Mountain golf
Weather & Seasons
Plan your visit to Stevens Pass with our seasonal guide. Best months to visit: Nov - Apr
Winter
Dec - Mar
15-30°F
Peak powder season with consistent snowfall
Spring
Apr - May
30-50°F
Spring skiing with softer snow and longer days
Summer
Jun - Aug
60-80°F
Golf season with perfect weather conditions
Fall
Sep - Nov
40-60°F
Shoulder season with early snow and fall golf
Local Weather Reality
Stevens Pass gets consistent heavy Pacific snowfall - average 450 inches per year. The warmth of Pacific storms means the snow is sometimes wetter than Rocky Mountain powder but comes in extraordinary quantity.
What Locals Actually Know
Insights from someone who has spent a decade calling Stevens Pass home. The things the resort brochures never tell you.
Local Perspective
Stevens Pass is Seattle's powder stash. When Pacific storms come in from the Puget Sound, they hit the Cascades and dump the most snow right at Stevens - the weather is more aggressive here than at Crystal Mountain to the south. The terrain is genuine - 1,125 acres of real mountain skiing, not a developed resort. The locals who ski Stevens value it precisely because it has not been overbuilt.
The night skiing at Stevens is excellent - lit terrain on the main face until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Stevens gets a community of Seattle urban skiers who are serious about their skiing and less interested in resort amenities. The summer hiking from Stevens Pass on the Pacific Crest Trail is extraordinary.
Insider Tips
- 1The Mill Valley side of the mountain is the least-trafficked area - excellent powder retention after storms.
- 2Stevens' night skiing on weekends is legitimately good - well-lit, good snow, far fewer people than daytime.
- 3The PCT trailhead at Stevens Pass is one of the great summer hikes on the Cascades crest.
Local Secrets
- The backside double-diamond terrain above Chair 6 is where the local powder hounds go on storm days.
What to Avoid
- Avoid US Highway 2 on storm days without proper snow tires - the pass approach is steep.
Weather Reality
Stevens Pass gets consistent heavy Pacific snowfall - average 450 inches per year. The warmth of Pacific storms means the snow is sometimes wetter than Rocky Mountain powder but comes in extraordinary quantity.
Hidden Gem
Index Town Wall east of Goldbar on US 2 is a climbing destination on a granite wall visible from the highway - in winter the ice routes on it are world-class and completely unknown outside the climbing community.
Ski Like a Local
- Corona area near the top has north-facing terrain that holds the best powder after Pacific storms.
Golf Like a Local
- Kahler Glen Golf Course in Leavenworth plays through the Wenatchee River valley with dramatic Cascade views.
Where Locals Eat
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Lodging Picks
Getting There
Seattle is 78 miles west via US Highway 2. The drive through the Skykomish River valley and Index is one of the most beautiful mountain approaches in Washington.
Skiing
Stevens Pass
Difficulty Level
All Levels
Terrain Variety
From gentle groomed runs to challenging black diamonds and powder bowls
Snow Quality
Consistent snowfall with excellent powder conditions throughout the season
Local Ski Tips
- Corona area near the top has north-facing terrain that holds the best powder after Pacific storms.
Golf
Kahler Glen Golf Course
Course Design
Championship layout with strategic bunkers and water features
Scenic Views
Breathtaking mountain vistas from every hole on the course
Course Condition
Meticulously maintained greens and fairways year-round
Local Golf Tips
- Kahler Glen Golf Course in Leavenworth plays through the Wenatchee River valley with dramatic Cascade views.
Gallery
Skiing
Golf
Village
Dining
What to Expect
Accommodations
Stevens Pass offers a wide range of lodging options from luxury resorts to cozy mountain lodges, all with convenient access to slopes and golf courses.
Dining
Experience world-class dining with mountain views, from casual après-ski spots to fine dining restaurants featuring local and international cuisine.
Shopping
Browse premium ski and golf equipment, local artisan goods, and luxury boutiques in charming village settings.
Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, enjoy snowshoeing, spa treatments, mountain biking, hiking trails, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay
Stevens Pass offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and preference
Local Recommendations
Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort
In Leavenworth east of Stevens, arts-focused resort, beautiful property, the finest accommodation near this mountain
Luxury Resorts
$$$$ - $400-800/night
- Ski-in/ski-out access
- Full-service spa and wellness center
- Multiple on-site restaurants
- Concierge services
- Premium amenities and room service
Mountain Lodges
$$$ - $200-400/night
- Cozy alpine atmosphere
- Close proximity to slopes
- Complimentary breakfast
- Fireplaces and mountain views
- Family-friendly amenities
Condos & Rentals
$$ - $150-300/night
- Full kitchen facilities
- Multiple bedrooms for groups
- Washer and dryer
- Living space and privacy
- Cost-effective for longer stays
Booking Tips
Book Early
Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak season (December-March) to secure best rates
Package Deals
Look for packages combining lodging with lift tickets and golf rounds for significant savings
Shoulder Season
Visit in early December or late March for lower rates and fewer crowds
Location Matters
Ski-in/ski-out properties cost more but save time and transportation expenses
Nearby Attractions & Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, Stevens Pass offers countless ways to enjoy your mountain getaway
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Eats
Hidden Gem
Index Town Wall east of Goldbar on US 2 is a climbing destination on a granite wall visible from the highway - in winter the ice routes on it are world-class and completely unknown outside the climbing community.
Village Shopping
Browse boutique shops, ski equipment stores, and local artisan galleries in the charming mountain village.
Fine Dining
Experience world-class cuisine from casual mountain bistros to award-winning restaurants.
Spa & Wellness
Relax and rejuvenate at luxury spas offering massages, hot tubs, and wellness treatments.
Mountain Biking
Explore extensive trail networks for all skill levels during summer months.
Hiking Trails
Discover scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nightlife & Events
Enjoy après-ski entertainment, live music venues, and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Wellness & Relaxation
Unwind after a day on the slopes
Apres-Ski & Nightlife
Experience the vibrant mountain culture
Travel Tips & Planning
Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Stevens Pass
Getting There
Seattle is 78 miles west via US Highway 2. The drive through the Skykomish River valley and Index is one of the most beautiful mountain approaches in Washington.
Best Time to Book
Book accommodations 3-6 months in advance for peak season. Early booking ensures better rates and availability.
What to Pack
Layer clothing for varying temperatures. Bring ski gear or rent on-site. Golf clubs can be rented at the course.
Budget Planning
Lift tickets range from $80-200/day. Golf rounds $100-300. Budget $150-400/night for lodging depending on season.
Dining Options
From casual mountain cafes to fine dining restaurants. Reservations recommended for upscale venues during peak season.
Safety & Insurance
Purchase travel insurance covering skiing accidents. Check weather conditions daily and follow resort safety guidelines.
Local Planning Tips
The Mill Valley side of the mountain is the least-trafficked area - excellent powder retention after storms.
Stevens' night skiing on weekends is legitimately good - well-lit, good snow, far fewer people than daytime.
The PCT trailhead at Stevens Pass is one of the great summer hikes on the Cascades crest.