Eastern Washington’s Hidden Gem Ski Resorts: 49 Degrees North and Mt. Spokane
Ski Resort Overview: Mt. Spokane & 49 Degrees North
For skiers looking to maximize their time on the slopes without breaking the bank, Mt. Spokane and 49 Degrees North in Washington offer fantastic value. Both resorts provide big verticals, reliable snow, and excellent terrain for skiers who want to make the most of a long weekend without splurging. While they may not have much above-the-tree-line skiing, their well-maintained groomers and solid snow conditions make them perfect for a quick, quality ski trip.
Why These Resorts Are Affordable
Mt. Spokane: With lift tickets averaging just $75 per day, Mt. Spokane offers great value for skiers looking for an affordable adventure. The resort features over 1,400 acres of terrain and 1,700 feet of vertical—perfect for skiers looking to maximize their time on wide, fun runs without the hassle of crowded lift lines.
49 Degrees North: Offering a similar lift ticket price of $75 per day, 49 Degrees North is another gem for budget-minded skiers. With 1,000 acres of terrain and 2,300 feet of vertical, it’s a great choice for skiers who want to explore long, scenic runs and enjoy some of the best snow conditions in the region.
Terrain Overview: Why You’ll Love 49 Degrees North and Mt. Spokane
Mt. Spokane: With 1,400 acres of terrain and 1,700 feet of vertical, Mt. Spokane offers great runs for skiers of all levels. While the resort doesn’t have much above-treeline terrain, it makes up for it with well-groomed trails, wide-open slopes, and solid snow conditions. It’s an ideal choice for skiers looking to get in a lot of quality turns over a short weekend, especially for those who enjoy long, scenic runs and the ease of shorter lift lines.
49 Degrees North: Known for its reliable snow and vast, uncrowded terrain, 49 Degrees North is perfect for skiers looking to explore wide-open trails and long descents. Offering 1,000 acres of terrain and 1800 feet of vertical, it’s an excellent spot for skiers who enjoy cruisy runs and want to maximize their vertical for the day. While there isn’t much above-tree-line terrain, the resort’s wide, scenic runs and strong snow conditions are perfect for an enjoyable, hassle-free ski experience.
Getting There
Both resorts are easily accessible from Spokane, Washington. Mt. Spokane is a one hour drive from the airport and 49 Degrees is a slightly longer drive at 1 hour 25 minutes.
Estimated Costs
The cost of a ski trip can vary depending on flight prices, accommodation, and travel dates. Below are sample itineraries with cost per person, assuming a trip for two and a weekend schedule (skiing both Saturday and Sunday)
Important Considerations:
All costs are calculated per person based on two travelers.
The cost includes both weekend stays and lift tickets.
These estimates assume no travel on ski days, and travel is considered outside of your ski schedule.
Pro tip: To save even more, consider skiing during the week, traveling with a larger group, Skiing and flying the same day, or booking during off-peak times.
Sample Itineraries
While Mt. Spokane is a fantastic local gem offering a classic, laid-back skiing experience, it’s important to note that accommodations are sparse—there are no lodging options within 45 minutes of the resort. If you’re planning to ski at Mt. Spokane, it’s very much a day-trip type of destination. That said, Eastern Washington is home to some of the most affordable ski resorts, and with the right planning, you can enjoy both 49 Degrees North and Mt. Spokane without breaking the bank.
When planning your getaway, think about whether you value Variety—the chance to ski two unique resorts—or Leisure - A more laid-back ski vacation.
Variety
This trip allows you to explore two ski resorts in one trip. Here is the breakdown:
Day 1 - Ski at 49 Degrees North
Day 2- Ski at Mt. Spokane
Or
Or Day 1 & 2: Ski at 49 Degrees North
Day 3: Ski at Mt. Spokane
The question becomes where do you want to stay?
Northern Spokane: For those who prefer an urban base, Northern Spokane offers a great option. With both 49 Degrees North and Mt. Spokane accessible in an hour or less, it serves as a convenient basecamp for your ski getaway. Enjoy the ease of access to both resorts while having the added convenience of being in the city, where you'll find more lodging options, dining, and amenities. If you're comfortable with a bit of extra driving, this option offers flexibility and all the perks of a city stay.
Stay close to 49 Degrees North: For those who don’t mind driving an hour and a half on the day they travel to Mt. Spokane, this accommodation allows you to have easy access to one of the resorts. It also brings you outside of the city and provides a more remote feel.
Estimate Cost:
2 Day Ski Trip:
Lift Tickets - $150
Accommodations - $233
Total: $383
3 Day Ski Trip:
Lift Tickets - $235
Accomodations - $311
Total: $544
SkiSaver truly appreciates your support! If you choose to book through the links below, you’ll be helping us continue to bring you affordable ski adventures. While the same deals are available elsewhere, these are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping keep SkiSaver running!
Variety:
Best Western Plus Spokane North
Distance to Resorts: 45 minutes to Mt. Spokane, 1 hour to 49 Degrees North.
Why Choose It: This hotel serves as a perfect base camp, providing quick access to both resorts within an hour or less. The Best Western Plus Spokane North is a comfortable and reliable choice for skiers who want to visit both mountains without sacrificing convenience.
Perks: Complimentary breakfast, comfortable rooms, and easy highway access to both resorts make this a top pick for those who want to maximize their time on the slopes.
Distance to Resorts: Similar access to both resorts as the Best Western—45 minutes to Mt. Spokane, 1 hour to 49 Degrees North.
Why Choose It: If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, Howard Johnson Spokane North offers clean and simple accommodations with easy access to both resorts. While it might not have the same amenities as higher-end hotels, it's a solid choice for those looking to save a bit without compromising on convenience.
Perks: Free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a location that makes it simple to get to both resorts. Plus, the rates are generally cheaper than the Best Western, making it a great budget option for skiers.
Distance to Resorts: 20 minutes to 49 Degrees North, just over an hour to Mt. Spokane.
Why Choose It: If you're planning to focus most of your time at 49 Degrees North but still want the option to check out Mt. Spokane, Mistequa Casino Hotel could be the right choice. It's only 20 minutes away from 49 Degrees North, but it’s a bit farther from Mt. Spokane. Be prepared for a longer drive if you want to ski both resorts, but the nearby casino and amenities can add a little extra fun to your stay.
Perks: The hotel offers a more unique experience with a casino on-site, perfect for après-ski entertainment. It's a great option for those who enjoy a bit of gaming and nightlife after a long day on the slopes.
Leisure
This trip allows you to sleep in a bit later, and leisurely enjoy the Eastern Washington mountains. You will enjoy a short trip to the resort and less rushed experience.
Day 1 & 2: Ski at 49 Degrees North
Where to stay?
Stay close to 49 Degrees North: 49 Degrees North offers a few affordable stays near the resort. Within 20 minutes you can click into your skis and start your mountain adventure!
Estimate Cost:
2 Day Ski Trip:
Lift Tickets - $140
Accommodations - $233
Total: $373
SkiSaver truly appreciates your support! If you choose to book through the links below, you’ll be helping us continue to bring you affordable ski adventures. While the same deals are available elsewhere, these are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping keep SkiSaver running!
Leisure:
For stays that work best for Leisure, learn about the options below:
Mistequa Casino Hotel
Distance to Resorts: 20 minutes to 49 Degrees North, just over an hour to Mt. Spokane.
Why Choose It: This Hotel is only 20 minutes from the resort and is very ski-friendly. They offer ski lockers for a small fee and ask about a 20% lift ticket discount voucher when you check in!
Perks: The hotel offers a more unique experience with a casino on-site, perfect for après-ski entertainment. It's a great option for those who enjoy a bit of gaming and nightlife after a long day on the slopes.
Chewelah’s Sleepy Sasquatch (VRBO)
Welcome to Chewelah’s Sleepy Sasquatch in downtown Chewelah. This 2 bedroom 2 full bath unique spacious rental located right on Main Street. Centrally located for easy access to 49 Degrees for skiing, and close to many access roads for outdoor recreation. 1 minute walk to restaurants/bars. 27 hole golf course just 10 minutes away. The whole group will enjoy easy access to everything from this centrally located gem of a place.
Mid-Mountain Cabins offers a cozy, rustic retreat just five miles from 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort, making it an ideal spot for skiers. Guests can enjoy discounted lift tickets through Stay and Ski Packages and take advantage of complimentary snowshoes for exploring the surrounding winter trails. With a fully renovated cabin, free Wi-Fi, and a peaceful, family-friendly environment, it's the perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes
