snow resorts (Seattle, Summit, Snoqualmie: rentals, hotels, buy)

[foe3643]

We are new to Washington State and just as new to 'snow activities.' Is there a resort within a few hours drive where we can rent a hotel room and go tubing and maybe even try skiing? Of course since we are complete newbie's we would have to rent as much warm clothing as possible. Any favorite places out there?

Thanks,
Merry Christmas and all the other holidays,
Cassy

[MafHoney]

This is our first year here during a full winter where we can actually try our hands (or feet rather) at skiing/snowboarding. From what I've seen, I think Crystal Mountain is the only really close one that's an actual resort. I know Steven's Pass has tubing, but I don't think any hotels around it. I'm sure there are ones further north and south of Seattle, but those are the closest.

You could also do what we're doing. There's a ski shuttle on certain days that will take you to Stevens or Crystal for the day so you don't have to drive and deal with all that stuff.

[tobester]

Snoqualmie Pass is a great place for tubing and skiing - easy to get to. No hotels to speak of, but less than an hour drive. Never heard of ski clothes rentals ...

[mkarch]

The best resort within a few hour drive is Whistler Blackcomb. None of the ones in WA are anywhere near as large or luxurious, and the terrain is amazing. WA would never allow something like that to be built.

Snoqualmie Pass is about an hour drive, and it's a good place to learn as they have combined 4 relatively "easy" ski areas into one pass. Alpental actually has some challenging terrain up top.

Stevens Pass has a better mountain, but it's more advanced.

[Inkpoe]

Originally Posted by MafHoney

This is our first year here during a full winter where we can actually try our hands (or feet rather) at skiing/snowboarding. From what I've seen, I think Crystal Mountain is the only really close one that's an actual resort. I know Steven's Pass has tubing, but I don't think any hotels around it. I'm sure there are ones further north and south of Seattle, but those are the closest.

Lodging | Stevens Pass

One can go to any of the ski webpage and find information about lodging. Even if the place itself doesn't offer lodging, there's always places nearby and there's also the cabins to rent out. Even Snoqualmie Pass has the cabins right up their trails. The ski in and ski out access usually provides the best experience... especially if they offer a hot tub outside!


Personally, OP, I wouldn't even want to rent clothes, just buy them-- odds are, you'll probably reuse for the coming years. All you really need waterproofed clothes like a snow bib or snow pants and a waterproof jacket like Northface/Columbia. I only wear a tank top shirt-- but thats because I'm used to the cold and overheat easily. I'd suggest a thermal long sleeve if you're going to be active; sweaters if you're just hanging out drinking cider or hot chocolate. Don't overbulk because it makes for an uncomfty experience.

Look into a place like Play it again Sports for rentals (IIRC, they did have snow bib/pant rentals), if you have money to burn then definitely REI.

[BellevueNative]

Check out places like Ski Mart or Ski Bonkers for good deals on lightly used ski/snowboard gear.

If you're open to looking a few hours south, check out Sun River and Mt. Bachelor in Oregon.

But if you guys are just learning, I recommend Snoqualmie Summit.