Industry News
Stevens Pass, Washington, has announced a new parking reservation system for the winter 2025-26 season, aimed at addressing ongoing congestion issues. Beginning next season, all alpine lots will require reservations on weekends and peak periods until 10 a.m. The system will include both free and paid options, with free reservations available for carpools of four or more, single adults with two children under 12, ADA guests, and those with lesson bookings. Free parking will also be available after 10 a.m. on peak days if space allows, while non-carpool vehicles will need to pay $20 per reservation.
General Manager Ellen Galbraith addressed the Stevens Pass community in an update shared on the resort’s website:
Good morning,
I want to share an important update about parking at Stevens Pass for winter 2025/26. Please note that these changes will not go into effect until next season.
Addressing parking challenges has been a priority at Stevens Pass, and while no single solution can fully solve the issue, we’re committed to continuous improvement. After continued learnings this season, we’ve decided to implement reservations next season for all alpine lots on weekends and peak periods until 10am, offering a mix of paid and free carpool options.
Parking reservations will remain free on weekends and peak dates for carpools with 4+ people, a single adult with two kids aged 12 and under, and guests utilizing ADA parking. Additionally, guests who book lessons can reserve a parking spot at no charge. Free parking without a reservation will be available after 10am on weekends and peak periods if space allows, but availability is not guaranteed. We encourage guests without a reservation to arrive after 1pm, when additional spots are expected to be available. Free parking is also available without a reservation on non-peak weekdays when all lots are first-come, first-served. Vehicles with fewer than four occupants, or those that don’t meet the exceptions, will be required to make a $20/vehicle reservation.
I’ve been on-site nearly every weekend helping to manage traffic and have observed a reduction in congestion as reservations have staggered arrival times. Reservations also provide a more predictable and less stressful arrival. Parking has been a top priority throughout my tenure, and I’m confident this change is the right step forward.
This change is about improving the guest experience on our busiest days, not about generating revenue. All proceeds from the reservation program will continue to be reinvested in parking improvements, including adding vault toilets to lots (pending USFS approval) and regrading/paving during the off-season.
We know this is a significant change, and we’re confident it will lead to a better experience. Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Ellen
This change is intended to improve the overall guest experience by reducing congestion and ensuring a smoother arrival process. All proceeds from the reservation fees will be reinvested into parking improvements, such as additional facilities and lot upgrades. The goal is to create a more efficient system for visitors while continuing efforts to enhance parking conditions at Stevens Pass.
