If you are planning a trip to Washington State, Seattle is likely at the top of your list. But what many people don’t know is that just an hour away from the “Emerald City,” there is a winter refuge perfect for those who want to step out of their comfort zone and dive into the snow. I’m talking about The Summit at Snoqualmie, a ski resort that breathes a family-friendly atmosphere but holds surprises even for the most seasoned skiers.
Recently, I had the chance to explore this mountain and, as a bonus, dive into pop culture nostalgia by visiting locations from the legendary series Twin Peaks. If you love snow, adventure, and a touch of cinematic mystery, grab a hot chocolate and join me on this journey through the Pacific Northwest.
Or watch my full video about skiing in Snolqualmie:
Where Winter Meets Family: The Summit at Snoqualmie
Located at Snoqualmie Pass, The Summit is the ideal choice if you are in Seattle, Bellevue, or Tacoma and want a snow day without driving for hours. It’s a resort I would describe as “cozy and accessible.” Unlike major luxury destinations, the focus here is on convenience and fun for all ages.
Mountain Layout and Areas
The mountain is divided into four main areas: Summit West, Summit Central, Summit East, and Alpental.
- Summit West and Central: These are the heart of the resort, focused on beginners and intermediates. This is where I spent most of my time.
- Summit East: Great for those who enjoy tree skiing, but take note: during the low season or weekdays in March, it might be closed.
- Alpental: This is the “crown jewel” for adrenaline junkies. Although the resort is family-oriented, Alpental offers some of the steepest and most challenging terrain in the region, featuring deep powder bowls and expert-only backcountry runs.
The “White Out” Skiing Experience
My visit took place in mid-March, and luckily (or unluckily for my senses), it was snowing hard! What we call a white out—when fog and snow create a total blanket of white—took over the mountain. Skiing in these conditions is an almost surreal experience. You lose your sense of depth, and sometimes it’s actually better to take your goggles off if the lenses are dark, as the contrast disappears completely.
Despite the reduced visibility, the snow was excellent—a casual powder that made the runs soft. The upside of skiing on a weekday in March? The mountain was practically empty. We had the slopes all to ourselves at several points!
Practical Tips for Your Snow Adventure
If you’re packing your bags for Washington, here are a few tips from someone who just got back:
- Parking Reservations: At The Summit, if you have a season pass or a daily ticket, parking is free, but you must make an advanced reservation. Don’t miss this, especially on weekends when the resort hits capacity.
- Save on Water: Unlike many resorts in Europe where you pay a fortune for a bottle of water, the culture in the US is different. There are water fountains everywhere to refill your bottle. Stay hydrated without spending a dime.
- Waterproof Gear is Essential: Snow in the Pacific Northwest is known as “Pacific Northwet” for a reason—it’s damp. If the temperature is near freezing, the snow gets you wet very quickly. Invest in good waterproof layers so you don’t end up soaked by noon.
- Night Skiing: One of the great perks here is the night skiing. Many people who work in Seattle drive up in the late afternoon to enjoy the floodlit runs. It’s an incredible vibe!
- Strategic Lodging: If you want to save money, look for accommodation in nearby towns like Cle Elum. It’s about 30 minutes from the resort and offers much friendlier prices than staying at the base of the mountain.
Beyond the Slopes: The “Twin Peaks” Tour
For those who lived through the 90s, the name Twin Peaks evokes pine forests, constant mist, and an unparalleled atmosphere of mystery. David Lynch’s series was filmed in this region, and you can visit iconic locations in less than 20 minutes from the resort.
North Bend and Twede’s Cafe (RR Diner)
Our first stop was in North Bend to visit the famous Twede’s Cafe, known in the series as the RR Diner. The place maintains the entire aura of the show and even serves the famous “cherry pie and a damn good cup of coffee.” Recently, following the passing of David Lynch, the location has become a pilgrimage site with moving memorials.
Snoqualmie Falls and the Great Northern Hotel
Just a few minutes away, in the town of Snoqualmie, you will find the majestic Snoqualmie Falls. If you remember the show’s opening, that giant waterfall is exactly this one. Right above the falls sits the Salish Lodge & Spa, which served as the exterior for the Great Northern Hotel. Today it’s a magnificent five-star hotel that is worth a visit, even if just to admire the view of the waterfall, which is incredibly powerful and imposing.
Mountain Eats: What to Have?
After burning hundreds of calories in the snow, hunger hits hard. Summit Central has a diverse food village:
- Waffles and Burritos: Quick options for those who don’t want to waste time. A burrito costs around $15, and a hot soup for $12 helps revive the body.
- Barbecue and Mexican Food: There are more structured restaurants for those who want to sit down and relax.
- The Picnic Style: As a savvy budget traveler, it’s also worth having protein bars and snacks in your backpack for breaks between lifts.
Is The Summit at Snoqualmie Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a straightforward resort near a major metropolis with authentic local charm, Snoqualmie is the place. It’s perfect for beginners or families with children, but it also offers the challenge of Alpental for veterans.
Combining this with the chance to visit movie sets and see the pine forests that make Washington State so unique turns a simple ski day into a complete travel experience.
I hope this guide helps you plan your next mountain getaway. Remember: winter in the Pacific Northwest can be wet and cloudy, but it’s that very atmosphere that makes everything so magical and unforgettable.
Happy travels, and see you on the slopes!
