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Where to Après-Ski Like a Local at Washington's Top Ski Resorts
Take a Snow Day
Top Washington Ski Resorts and Where to Après-Ski Like a Local
written by Ryn Pfeuffer
Washington may not have the glitzy après-ski scene of Aspen or the Alps (the term “après-ski,” meaning “after skiing” in French, originated in the Alps during the 1950s), but it stands out with pristine slopes, unique terrain and more a ordable lift tickets compared to flashy resorts like Whistler or the Rockies.
With La Niña in full effect, snow junkies are thrilled for cooler, wetter conditions and a healthy snowpack. Instead of slopeside champagne toasts, Washington offers laid-back spots where skiers can wind down with a beer after a day on the mountain. Here’s where to head when the lifts stop spinning.
The Summit at Snoqualmie
Big changes are happening at The Summit at Snoqualmie. Alpental’s new Internationale Chair, dubbed by Powder magazine as “one of the most highly anticipated lifts on the continent,” boosts uphill capacity by 25 percent and marks the ski area’s most significant upgrade since 1967. Over at Summit West, the Wildside lift now features a sleek quad chair and improved night skiing visibility with LED lights. After hitting the slopes, unwind at Dru Bru. This craft brewery serves a rotating lineup of beers, from hoppy IPAs to seasonal stouts, all brewed on site. Pair your pint with a wood-fired pizza or a warm pretzel while soaking in the cozy atmosphere and mountain views.
Loup Loup Ski Bowl
Loup Loup Ski Bowl in Okanogan County offers a fantastic deal—kids 12 and under ski free with a parent’s lift ticket all season. After skiing, unwind at Twisp’s Methow Valley Ciderhouse, where local beers, ciders, burgers and brats set the relaxed tone, or check out Omak’s taverns. For cross-country skiing, Methow Trails in Mazama is a must-visit, featuring nearly 44 miles of scenic loops. The trails cater to all levels, with stunning views of Driveway Butte, sunlit meadows and the dramatic Go at Wall.
White Pass Ski Area
White Pass Ski Area has added snowmaking machines on the lower mountain and expanded the Great White Express quad with thirteen new chairs this season. After skiing, head to the Sitzmark Pub for a drink with local beers and wines. Bonus: It stays open later on nights with ski events. For a heartier meal, drive to Packwood and check out the Blue Spruce Saloon and Grill, serving pub fare like a legit tuna melt and bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin. Save your best Taylor Swift song for karaoke on Saturday nights.
49° North Mountain Resort
After a day on the slopes at 49° North Mountain Resort, head to Boomtown Bar for après-ski fun. Enjoy live music on select weekends paired with jalapeño poppers, cheese curds or the Boomtown Burger and a cold beer. For a quieter vibe, Chewelah offers options like Sportsman’s Bar & Grill (or Sporty’s) for classic bar snacks, Oasis Tavern with karaoke nights or Quartzite Brewing Company, where ski pass holders score $1 off pints on Fridays.
Crystal Mountain Resort
Crystal Mountain Resort is back on the Ikon Pass this season, offering unlimited access for the first time since 2021-22. Passholders get 15 percent off dining and retail, plus 25 percent off up to twelve friends and family tickets. The terrain is better than ever with improvements like regraded Upper Chappelle’s Run and new light poles on Tinkerbell. Plus, check out the new Mountain Commons Lodge with Brew 62 coffee, food hall and après at the Bootpack Bar.
Mt. Baker Ski Area
Mt. Baker Ski Area, famed for its deep snowpack, kicks off the season with a gift for families—fifth graders ski free all season. After a day on the slopes, head to Glacier for après-ski eats like Chair 9’s build-your-own nachos or Gunners Tex Mex BBQ’s tacos and smoked Old Fashioneds. Closer to Bellingham, The North Fork Brewery in Deming serves up happy hour deals, pizza slices and hearty daily specials like stromboli and meatball subs.
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort
If you’re heading to Mission Ridge, you’re in for an early treat—this year, they started spinning lifts as soon as they legally could, with snow that feels more like mid-January! After a day on the slopes, you’ve got a couple of great après-ski options. Chair 5 Pub at the resort is cozy, with great food and drinks. If you’re there for night skiing, don’t miss Brewer’s Nights with local craft beer tastings. Or head into Wenatchee to check out Pybus Public Market for craft beers, cocktails and live music with Columbia River views.
Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park
Skiers can unwind at several nearby spots after a day on the slopes at Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park. While the resort itself doesn’t have a major après-ski scene, the surrounding Spokane area offers some excellent options. At the base of the mountain, the Ski Hill Grill provides a casual atmosphere where skiers can grab a bite and sip a drink, often with a view of the slopes. If you’re heading into Spokane, the Moon Time Pub & Grill is a local favorite for its laid-back vibe and hearty menu, offering a great spot to relax with a drink.
Stevens Pass Ski Resort
Stevens Pass is a small, family-friendly hill with great snow, 1,100 acres of exciting terrain and night skiing. Recently acquired by Vail Resorts, it’s now Epic, so grab an Epic Local pass for unlimited access. After a day on the slopes, skip the traffic and head to Skykomish’s Whistling Post Saloon for fried chicken and jojos or Maggy’s Family Mexican Restaurant in Gold Bar for Tex-Mex and margaritas. If you’re headed east, stop by Squirrel Tree Restaurant at Cole’s Corner—the tots are legendary.
Bring the Après-Ski Vibes Home
There is no need for lift tickets to enjoy the après-ski lifestyle. Here’s how to transform your home into a charming alpine retreat:
Set the Tone: Create a playlist with festive holiday tunes or upbeat EDM for a chic ski-party feel.
Fireside Ambiance: Light a fireplace or outdoor fire pit, or cue up a virtual fireplace on YouTube.
Warm Decor: Deck out your living space with ski-inspired accents, fairy lights, furry pillows, snowflakes and mason jars filled with twinkling lights. Add fragrant candles and mini pine trees for an alpine touch.
Elegant Tablescapes: Style your dinner table with pinecones, branches and candles for a nature-inspired setting.
Swiss-Inspired Menu: Serve fondue and raclette featuring key Swiss ingredients like cheese and chocolate. Write the menu on a small blackboard for a bistro vibe.
Warm Drinks: Sip on spiced wine or hot cocoa for the kids, complete with marshmallows.
Outdoor Fun: Take a brisk walk or play in the snow to mimic the feeling of a day on the slopes.
Ski-Chic Fashion: Snuggle up in beanies, fuzzy socks and winter accessories to complete the look.
