Located approximately 80 miles east of Seattle along Highway 2, Stevens Pass has long been Washington’s favorite ski resort. Stevens's optimal location high in the Cascades gives it cooler and drier weather than other ski mountains in the state, which often results in light, high-quality snow. In terms of terrain, Steven’s has something for every level of skier and rider, with a mix of expert terrain and wide-open groomers. If you’re thinking of heading east on Highway 2 to ski or ride, continue reading below for The Gearhouse Guide to Stevens Pass.
Stevens Pass Ski Area at a Glance
Spanning over 1,125 acres of pristine skiable terrain with a vertical drop of 1,784 feet, Stevens Pass Ski Area is renowned for its ample snowfall, averaging over 460 inches annually. The resort boasts a variety of terrain, with 37% of the trails designated as advanced/expert, 52% intermediate, and 11% beginner. Stevens Pass is accessible via the Stevens Pass Highway (US Route 2), approximately 80 miles northeast of Seattle.
Getting to Stevens Pass
From Seattle, take Highway 2 eastbound towards Leavenworth. Stevens Pass recently implemented a new parking program that offers optimal parking for vehicles with four plus passengers on weekends and holidays in lots A, G, and C. This new program has resulted in a bit of confusion on the mountain, so it’s best to get there early to avoid traffic and find a spot. And new in 2024, a parking reservation system adds to the complexity, but a reservation reduces the risk of turning around due to the full lots. Parking reservations on weekends and holidays can fill up fast, so plan to book early. Overflow parking is available in Yodelin and the Nordic Center, with shuttles running from the lots to the base of the mountain.
Terrain Overview
Stevens Pass Mountain Resort sprawls across the slopes of two mountains, Cowboy Mountain to the west and Big Chief Mountain to the east. Skiers can access trails on the front side of both mountains and on the backside of Big Chief Mountain. Big Chief, located skiers' right, offers a mix of terrain. On the front side, advanced and intermediate skiers and riders will spend most of their time on Kehr’s Chair and Double Diamond Chairlift. The Double Diamond Lift leads to one of the few backcountry gates and allows skiers to access the Mill Valley Area. The backside of the mountain is a playground for advanced skiers and riders, with steep terrain and thrilling tree runs. The other side of the mountain offers even more expert terrain and a handful of beginner options as well. The 7th Heaven Chairlift is a mecca for big mountain riding and grants access to Steven’s famed steep chutes. Near the base of the mountain, skiers can enjoy a surplus of beginner-friendly and intermediate terrain as well as the Top Phlight Terrain Park, one of the best parks in the state.
Lift Tickets and Ski Passes
Single-day lift tickets range from $125 to $170, with discounts available for online purchases and midweek skiing. There are several season pass options, including the Epic Pass, the Epic Local Pass, and the Stevens Pass Premium. The Epic Local Pass gives skiers 10 combined days of access to Epic mountains like Stevens, Vail, Beaver Creek, and Whistler Blackcomb, excluding restricted peak dates, for $719. The Sevens Pass Premium gives skies unrestricted access to Stevens Pass all season long for $616. The Epic Pass gives skiers unrestricted access to all Vail Resort ski areas, including Stevens Pass, all season long for $969. Another great option for Washington skiers is purchasing an Edge Card through Epic Pass. An Edge Card provides 2, 5, or 10 significantly discounted days of skiing or riding at Whistler Blackcomb and Stevens Pass exclusively for residents of Canada and Washington State. EDGE Card Holders have the option to use two of the five days
Other Mountain Activities
In addition to its daytime operations, Stevens Pass offers night skiing, with six lifts running until 10 PM. Stevens Pass Nordic Center, just five miles east of the ski area, offers snowshoe and groomed cross-country ski trails for skate and classic skiing. Check out our inventory of cross-country gear and snowshoes here.
Dining and Après Ski at Stevens Pass
Stevens has several dining options. Warm up with a hearty bowl of chili at the Bull's Tooth Pub & Eatery, or grab a slice at Iron Goat Pizzeria. Most of the dining options are found in the Pacific Crest Lodge, a perfect place to take a break from riding or grab a cold one at the end of the day.
Summer at Stevens Pass
Summers at Stevens Pass have something for everyone, from downhill mountain biking to disc golf, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides. The Hogsback chair lift gives riders access to freeride and technical trails. For those who want to enjoy the mountain at their own pace, we suggest hiking the Pacific Crest Trail to the top of Cascade Crest.
Stevens Pass Ski Area offers an unparalleled alpine experience with world-class terrain, abundant snowfall, and a vibrant mountain atmosphere. Stevens Pass has it all, whether you’re chasing powder or lapping groomers. Before heading to the mountain, stop by Gearhouse for all your Seattle ski rental needs.
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