Trip Report: A Whirlwind Tour of the Pacific Northwest

Curtis Weller | | Post Tag for Trip ReportTrip Report
snow place
Stevens Pass Ski Area. Credit: Author

Before this season even started I was investigating a big ski trip in January. Two good friends and ski buddies had recently relocated to Seattle. A ski trip to the Pacific Northwest would allow me to visit them, and make the down time far more enjoyable than a solo trip elsewhere. After conferring with Michelle and Paul, and getting my PTO approved, I booked my flight from Denver to Seattle. I had four days, and I wanted to hit three ski areas.

war of the worlds on snow
The transmission line in Mill Valley, Stevens Pass. Credit: Author

I arrived at Sea-Tac late on Thursday. Neither Paul or Michelle were able to join me Friday, but Paul did lend me his car. I threw my skis and boots in the trunk and took off for Stevens Pass.

interesting ride
Skiing in a cloud at Stevens. Credit: Author

Late December and January had seen a lot of snow, but it had rained recently. I dipped my toe into the water a few times but I just couldnโ€™t bring myself to ski the ungroomed Cascade Concrete. In my defense, the locals didnโ€™t want any part of it either. In mid afternoon the clouds that had been passing by all day sank, socking in the lower mountain. Which made for an interesting final run.

cool scenery
Michelle and Paul in the shadow of Mt. Rainer at the summit of Crystal Mountain. Credit: Author

Saturday was my off day. On Sunday Michelle, Paul, and myself awoke early and made the trip to Crystal Mountain. The view from the summit was simply amazing, the snow not so much. That was at least until the sun turned the concrete into some rather enjoyable spring like slush.

no pow here
Everyone sticking to the groomers early in the morning at Crystal. Credit: Author

Lunch at Crystal was a surprising delight. The food from the cafeteria was really good without being over priced, and you can get beer by the pitcher.

bummer
Michelle looking defeated after losing a ski while attempting to help another fallen skier. Credit: Author

Alpental, Summit East, and Summit West were all closed Monday morning. I probably should have looked this up earlier, and gone to Snoqualmie on Saturday. Live and learn. Michelle and myself didnโ€™t spend as long at Snoqualmie as we could have, but we were tired from Sunday, and I had a plane to catch that afternoon.

skiing
Michelle at Snoqualmie. Credit: Author

It was a whirlwind of a trip but it was great seeing my good friends again. The snow could have been better, but it canโ€™t always be an epic powder day, and there is always next time.


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