WINTER ACTIVITES
If you wait all year for that first snowflake to fall, then Central Washington is for YOU! When the cold and snow start, winter activities heat up in Central Washington!
Central Washington, specifically Kittitas County, offers hundreds of miles of groomed trails, with popular options including Blewett Pass on Highway 97, Salmon la Sac north of Roslyn, and the Ronald and Easton areas. PRO TIP: Be sure to check the state’s avalanche hotline at (206) 526-6677 before heading out.
Whether you love the power of a snowmobile, or a quiet snowshoe trek, winter is prime time to explore Central Washington. No matter your favorite activities, after a day of adventure on the mountain or trails, warm up for a cozy weekend stay or tasty bite or sip at one of our many excellent options.
Visitors Guide to Snoqualmie Pass!
Snoqualmie Pass is a special place, the unique landscape, sharp ridgelines, and steep snow banks make you want to explore and discover all the wonder and beauty. We welcome you to the pass and are happy to share information with you regarding recreational opportunities at the Summit at Snoqualmie Resort as well as other location on Snoqualmie Pass and in the surrounding area.
Snow play, tubing and sightseeing
While we all love playing in the snow, making that perfect snowball, getting that photo for Instagram or sliding down the hill on a sled, The Summit at Snoqualmie does not allow snow play, sledding, or casual sightseeing on snow anywhere at the resort. There are many different moving parts at a Ski Resort including snow removal equipment, passenger vehicles, skiers and snowboards and much more that isn’t compatible with unregulated use of our terrain. That being said, we do have a Tubing Park for snow tubing and there are many other options outside of The Summit and within a short drive for snow play, sightseeing and winter walks/hikes. Scroll down for more details and locations.
The Summit Tubing Park
Snow tubing is fun for the whole family, take a thrilling ride on Summit provided tubes down our groomed lanes, then hop on the magic carpet for a trip back up to the top and do it all over again.
Advanced ticket reservations required, COVID-19 protocols in place.
Nearby Alternative
Sledding Areas
The only places sledding is allowed in the Snoqualmie Pass area is at the Hyak Sno-Park and the Gold Creek Snow Park. These Sno-Parks do fill up quickly, so it is wise to be prepared to travel to an alternate Washington State Park location or find a different activity.
Hyak Sno-Park
Gold Creek Sno-Park
Snow Play Areas
The perfect areas for experiencing snow and enjoying the winter landscape. Washington State Snow Parks – Designated state parks nearby that are open during the winter for snow play, visit website for information.
Sightseeing Locations
Gold Creek Pond
Cabin Creek
Lake Kachess
Lake Easton State Park
Skiing & Snowboarding
The Summit at Snoqualmie Ski Resort is nestled in this beautiful landscape and offers all the services you may need to explore on Skis or a Snowboard. Visit our website to get started with a lesson, rentals, and lift tickets.
Snow play, tubing and sightseeing
The Nordic Center is the go to place if you’re interested in Nordic Skiing or renting snowshoes to explore any of the local trails. All of the details, rental equipment, and tickets can be purchased on our website.
BACKCOUNTRY SNOWSHOEING!
For snowshoeing experts up to the challenge, Kittitas County offers an unparalleled choice of challenging backcountry terrain. Here are some notable places for the bold snowshoe fan to explore.
For snowshoeing experts up to the challenge, our area offers an unparalleled choice of challenging backcountry terrain and scenic views.
See some suggestions below for notable places to make your next snowshoeing excursion! PRO TIP: Be sure to check the state’s avalanche hotline at (206) 526-6677 before heading out.
SNOWMOBILING ENTHUSISATS!
Get outside this winter and enjoy fun-filled days (or weekends… or weeks!) snowmobiling the mountains of Central Washington! Riders are treated to spectacularly breathtaking views of jagged peaks and wooded valleys.
Wintertime sees flocks of visitors journey to Central Washington each winter, but few activities draw more outdoor enthusiasts to the area than snowmobiling. Kittitas County alone offers 2,300 square miles of terrain to explore and 600 miles of groomed trails.
A number of sno-parks are available for use, and more information about specific locales can be found on the Washington State Parks website. Get information on local clubs from Washington State Snowmobiling Association!
PRO TIP: Be sure to check the state’s avalanche hotline at (206) 526-6677 before heading out.
Several great hills for sledding and tubing are found at Suncadia Resort near Cle Elum! Try the hill behind the Aquatic Center on the golf course for one of the best sled runs!
SKIING
The mountains of Central Washington are the perfect place to make your skiing escape!
Downhill skiers and snowboarders can find their fill of excitement at The Summit at Snoqualmie ski area in Snoqualmie Pass, located about an hour east of Seattle (approx. 50 miles) and an hour west of Ellensburg (approx. 50 miles). The Summit has areas for beginners, intermediates, advanced skiiers, and places like Summit Central with something for everyone. Snowboarders: don’t miss the superpipe and terrain parks!
The ski area also offers a tubing area along with cross-country, skiing and snowshoeing trails.
Show off your skills by sharing your photos and videos with us on social media!
NOTE: only a standard snopark permit is mandatory
NOTE: only a standard snopark permit is mandatory
SLEDDING & TUBING!
We are lucky to have the mountains close by. And when there is fresh snow starting to dump in the hills, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about adding a sledding or tubing day to your winter to-do list. If you’re ready to take in all the powdery goodness, bundle up your little snow angels and experience Central Washington!
Directions: I-90 Exit 54. Turn south at off-ramp (from Seattle, make a right turn off the freeway. From Cle Elum, make a left turn) to the intersection. Turn left, go about 1/8 mile and turn right. Sno-park is on first right. — Elevation: 2,560 feet — Open 8 am to 4:30pm
Here at one of the area‘s most popular winter destinations, the whole family can take part in guided snowshoe trips.
SNOWSHOEING AND SNOW CAMPING!
For snowshoeing experts up to the challenge, Central Washington offers an unparalleled choice of challenging backcountry terrain.
If rugged outdoor adventure is what you are all about – look no further than Central Washington. We have a vast variety of activities all year long, and winter is no exception!
If you love snowshoeing and snowcamping, try Central Washington. Kittitas County is perfect for snowshoeing experts up to the challenge and offers an unparalleled choice of challenging backcountry terrain.
Close to Easton, this snowshoe route is all about the climb. At times the trail is broad and not too difficult at all, but if you wish to employ your climbing prowess, you can head straight to the open slopes.
Near Cle Elum, this snopark system is ideal for cross-country touring. Close to Blewett Pass, here you can enjoy the serene stillness of winter in the Northwest.
NOTE: only a standard snopark permit is mandatory
This destination offers an array of excellent trails. As you make your way through the forest trail, you’ll appreciate unique views of the Cle Elum River Basin and the impressive mountains beyond. NOTE: A standard Snopark permit is mandatory. Bathroom, Campground Host, Potable Water.
This popular campground is located between Cle Elum and Cooper Rivers. It opens the weekend before Memorial Day weekend, weather and snow conditions permitting and closes mid-September.
Fee: $21 (Single), $42 (Double sites), $8 for extra vehcicles
Here at one of the area‘s most popular winter destinations, the whole family can take part in guided snowshoe trips.