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Spring skiing

Don't put those skis away just yet

Spring skiing in the Northwest is a spectacular way to enjoy (hopefully) sunshine and snow. File photo

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Whether you are an avid skier or trying snowboarding for the first time, early spring is a great time to strap on those boots and hit the slopes in Washington, with many of our local hills offering great discounts for military families.

Spring Ski Conditions:
Although the snowfall can be a bit unpredictable this time of year, most hills switch to a spring schedule at the beginning of March and are open during the day on weekends into April. The areas with high elevation runs often see optimal ski conditions into May, but be sure to check weather conditions before you head to the mountain! SkiWashington.com is an excellent resource to skiing in the area and includes updated weather and powder conditions at all resorts in Washington at any given time.

Crystal Mountain at Mount Rainier
Located at Mount Rainier (an hour-and-a-half drive southeast of base) lies Crystal Mountain Resort, Washington's largest ski area.  Boasting over 2,600 skiable acres and a $10 military discount on tickets (available at the ticket kiosks at the resort), the challenging runs and relaxing gondola ride offers something for everyone.  The resort holds four Military Appreciation Days with 50% discounts on tickets.  Check website for dates.

Full day lift passes run $76 for adults and $52 for youth (11-15).  Children 10 and younger are free with a paid adult. For more info, visit crystalmountainresort.com.

The Summit at Snoqualmie
About an hour-and-a-half drive northeast of JBLM lies one of the area's most popular ski destinations with almost 2,000 acres of ski trails and a summit elevation of 5,420 feet. The Summit at Snoqualmie offers beginner lessons and hills for those new to the sport as well as adrenaline-inducing runs at the Alpental to challenge even experienced skiers.  Lessons run into the spring and the resort offers discounts for military families, veterans and DoD employees (with ID) on activity passes, food and beverages.

Full day lift passes run $75 for adults and $50 for youth (7-12) with military discount included. Discounts are also available on ski and snowboard rentals at the hill but be sure to purchase your lift passes online to get the best deals. For more info, visit summitatsnoqualmie.com.

White Pass
Two-and-a-half hour drive southeast of base lies White Pass with 1,402 skiable acres and a summit elevation of 6,500 feet.  Active-duty and retired military enjoy great rates on daily passes (with ID).  The resort also offers some great rental deals (visit skiwhitepass.com for updated information) in case you don't have your own equipment.

Stevens Pass
Two-and-a-half hours northeast of JBLM lies 37 runs on 1,125 acres at Stevens Pass.  With an average snowfall of 450 inches and an elevation of 5,845 feet, this resort offers great discounts for active-duty, veteran and DoD employees and their families on tickets, equipment rentals and lessons!  Visit stevenspass.com for prices, as rates vary daily.

Good to know: If you are a regular skier, March through May is the perfect time of year to look out for special discounts on the following year's season pass at your chosen resort, allowing you to ski for free all spring with next year's pass. Deals are also available on beginner lessons and tickets at select resorts.

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