Pow Day

A heavy refresh overnight means it’s time to make an early break for the hills. Maritime climates are known for their deep storm cycles, and this morning is no exception. Roll out of bed for a pre-dawn start and grab breakfast along Highway 2 on your way to the mountain. A gigantic bigfoot statue at milepost 36 means you’ve made it to the Espresso Chalet, a quick drive-by for a mocha and a cookie. For a heartier meal, the Sultan Bakery offers breakfast sandwiches, burritos, and a full case of donuts and pastries. Order a few and tuck an extra apple fritter in your pocket for the lift—if you plan to stay for night skiing, you’ll need all the extra fuel you can get. 

Since you’re at the mountain early, nab a spot in line for first chair while the snow keeps stacking up. Hop on the Double Diamond or Tye Chair to access the backside, a myriad of south facing terrain that can be killer skiing during a storm cycle. By lunchtime when the new snow is all chewed up, explore the endless hidden stashes in the trees; if you know where to look, there are pow turns to be had bell to bell. 

With six lifts spinning until 10 p.m., the night skiing at Stevens Pass truly sets it apart from other resorts in the state. Unless you’ve got superhuman stamina, you’ll likely want to take a break before the lights come on. Sink into a chair at the Foggy Goggle, an iconic local watering hole, and enjoy a pint of craft IPA and a juicy, hard-earned burger before heading back out there to keep ripping under the lights. It’s a long day on the mountain, but one you won’t soon forget. 

photos above curtesy of: Adam Sanders, Stevens Pass