Whitepass Mountain, Washington: Perfect Budget Friendly Ski Weekend

Ski Resort Overview: White Pass Ski Area
For skiers looking for incredible value, great snow, and an easy-to-reach destination, White Pass Ski Area in Washington is an ideal choice. Located in the Central Cascades, just 2.5 hours from Seattle-Tacoma Airport, White Pass offers an affordable ski experience without compromising on quality. Here's why White Pass should be at the top of your list for your next ski trip:

  1. Easy trip from Seattle-Tacoma Airport or Portland Airport: White Pass is an easy drive from Seattle/Portland, with affordable flights regularly available.

  2. Incredible value at $85-$95 a day: Lift tickets are very affordable, making this one of the most affordable ski resorts in the region.

  3. Great snow in the Northern Cascades: White Pass receives over 400 inches of snow annually, ensuring great conditions for skiing and snowboarding, particularly on its varied terrain.

  4. Varied terrain: White Pass offers diverse skiing experiences, from long groomed blue and black runs to thrilling off-piste terrain and wide-open, above-tree-line runs that mimic bowl skiing.

Terrain Overview: Exploring White Pass

White Pass has vast terrain ranging across multiple mountains. You will love the following:

  • Long Blue and Black Runs: White Pass features several long, fast, and well-maintained blue and black runs, perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers looking to carve down the mountain without the crowds.

  • Off-Piste Thrills: For those who prefer more adventurous terrain, White Pass offers plenty of off-piste options with powder-filled areas and tree skiing. The resort’s snow conditions are fantastic, and the off-piste areas deliver exciting challenges for experienced skiers.

  • Above Tree-Line Open Runs: White Pass also has wide-open runs that provide bowl skiing vibes. These expansive areas offer stunning views and the feel of big-mountain skiing without the price tag of larger resorts.

Getting There

Getting to White Pass can be a breeze. It’s just a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle or Portland Airports, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or even a quick ski trip. This proximity means more time spent on the slopes and less time traveling.

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:

  1. All costs are calculated per person based on two travelers.

  2. The cost includes both weekend stays and lift tickets.

  3. 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 Itinerary

A trip to White Pass offers incredible value, especially with lift tickets regularly priced under $75. Here’s a breakdown of what a 2-day trip could cost, assuming you're traveling with a friend or partner and sharing accommodations:

2-Day Ski Trip Itinerary (3 day weekend)

  • Lift Tickets:
    $85 per day for 2 days = $190 per person

  • Accommodation (3-night stay): (55$ per person per night)
    Lodging is available off White Pass Scenic Byway

Total Estimated Costs for 2 Days:

  • Lift Tickets: $190

  • Accommodation: $165

  • Total per person: $355

Where to Stay

Accommodations That Don’t Break the Bank:

Packwood, Washington - Packwood is a quiet, small-town destination with a laid-back vibe, making it a great place to unwind after a day on the mountain. Skiers who prefer a more relaxed, slower pace of life will enjoy the rustic charm of the town, with its quaint shops, local restaurants, and friendly atmosphere. It’s a perfect contrast to the hustle and bustle of busy ski resorts. Packwood is only about 20-30 minutes away from White Pass Mountain, making it an ideal location for skiers who want to be close to the slopes without staying in a crowded or pricey ski resort town. The short drive means that skiers can enjoy quick access to the mountain, allowing them to maximize their time on the snow.

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The Town of Packwood, Washington has a large variety of cabins and small independent hotels. Below we share our favorite stays!

Packwood Lodge - The Packwood lodge offers a great place to kick your legs up and relax after a long day on the slopes. They offer traditional rooms as well as small cabins. It is close to a handful of local restaurants and a small grocery store. If you are looking for a comfortable stay that doesn’t break the bank, this is a great choice!

Cabins/Homes:

Riverfront A Frame (Sleeps 12) - This luxurious riverfront A-frame cabin offers year-round fun, just 35 minutes from White Pass skiing and steps away from world-class fishing on the Cowlitz River. With amenities like a hot tub, game room, wood-burning stove, and large deck with a BBQ, this cabin is perfect for a cozy getaway or a fun group retreat. Enjoy easy access to hiking, nearby parks, and even a private community pool and golf course, making this cabin the ultimate destination for relaxation and adventure.

Elk Horn Cabin (Sleep 10) - Elkhorn Cabin in Packwood, WA, offers the perfect home base for outdoor adventures, with hiking, skiing, and fishing just minutes away. This newly built cabin sleeps up to 10 guests comfortably, featuring a cozy loft for kids, a fully stocked kitchen, and a relaxing outdoor firepit. Located close to White Pass Ski Area, Mt. Rainier National Park, and downtown Packwood’s shops and restaurants, Elkhorn Cabin provides the ideal spot for a memorable getaway.

The Elk Run Lodge (Sleeps 8) - Beautiful custom built Elk Run Lodge is located in Skyline community near downtown Packwood. Easy and close access to Mt. Rainier National Park & White Pass Ski Resort with plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy: a Hot Tub with outdoor lighting or sitting by the outdoor firepit after hiking or a long day on the slopes. Sleeps 8. Clean, Spacious and Open floor plan. Kitchen, Dining Area, and Living Space; one huge gathering room. Perfect for your large family or 2 families to relax and socialize while resting after an adventurous day. Kids will love the Bunk beds and adjoining Jack n Jill bathroom as well as the game table, games and movies! Holiday Weekends require a 3 night minimum.

Fir Tree Cabin (Sleeps 7) - Fir Tree Cabin offers the perfect getaway for skiers and outdoor enthusiasts, just 20 minutes from White Pass Ski Resort. This charming cabin features soaring wood ceilings, a cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen for cooking family meals. With a king-size bed in the primary suite, additional bedrooms, and a large deck with mountain views, it’s an ideal retreat after a day on the slopes. Packwood's small-town charm, makes this cabin the perfect base for your next adventure.

Glacier Peak Getaway Cabin (Sleep 6) - Glacier Peak Getaway is the ideal retreat for skiers heading to White Pass Resort, located just 16 miles away. This cozy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom cabin comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests, offering a warm and welcoming space to unwind after a day on the slopes. With a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private outdoor fire pit, it’s perfect for enjoying hot cocoa or a hearty meal with friends and family. Whether you're looking to hit the slopes or relax in comfort, Glacier Peak Getaway offers the perfect base for your White Pass ski trip.

Tatoosh Base Camp Cabin (Sleep 6) - Tatoosh Base Camp is a charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom cabin perfect for a ski trip to White Pass Resort, just 16 miles away. This cozy retreat offers a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and a Smart TV for relaxing after a day on the slopes. This option is an incredible value and will allow you to travel with a group on a budget!

Log Cabin on 8 Acres (Sleeps 2) - Escape to the peaceful beauty of Moon Mountain, where this charming log cabin sits on 8 acres surrounded by the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Just a short drive from Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens, this cabin offers easy access to both national parks and White Pass Ski Area, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, cozy wood stove, shared hot tub, and picnic area, it’s the ideal retreat for up to 4 guests seeking a tranquil getaway in the heart of nature.

Minimalist Hideaway (Sleeps 2) - This cozy 500-square-foot cabin, nestled in the High Valley Club Neighborhood of Packwood, WA, offers the perfect base for remote workers, skiers, and outdoor adventurers. Just 20 minutes from White Pass Ski Resort, and surrounded by trails in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Rainier, it's ideal for couples or small families with a baby or kids. With a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable furnishings, and pet-friendly outdoor space, this charming cabin provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to skiing, hiking, and more in a beautiful natural setting.

Half-Pipe Hideaway (Sleeps 2) is the perfect cabin for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a cozy retreat just minutes from downtown Packwood, WA. Whether you're skiing at White Pass, hiking in Mount Rainier National Park, or fishing in nearby streams, this charming cabin provides a comfortable home base for up to four guests. With rustic mountain decor, modern amenities, and a firepit for relaxing evenings, it’s the ideal spot for adventure seekers or those looking to unwind in nature.