Washington state is welcoming its first significant snowfall of the season, creating excitement for winter sports enthusiasts. Crystal Mountain Resort anticipates opening its slopes on November 28, while Stevens Pass is set to open on December 5, according to reports.
On a recent episode of “The Jake and Spike Show” on KIRO Newsradio, host Spike O’Neill shared his own experience of skiing for the first time at the age of 31. Describing the experience as initially “horrifying,” he soon found skiing to be incredibly rewarding. “It’s an amazing feeling everybody should experience at some point in time,” he remarked, highlighting the unique opportunities for outdoor activities that the Northwest offers when it snows.
O’Neill emphasized the accessibility of skiing within the Seattle area, noting that it only takes about an hour to reach these winter recreation spots. “Almost any direction you can get water skiing and snow skiing in the same day, and that’s the only place in the world you can do that,” he added, showcasing the region’s diverse options for outdoor adventure.
Co-host Jake Skorheim also confirmed the many skiing options available. “We have Snoqualmie, which is great. If you’re out on Highway 2, you can head out to Stevens Pass. There’s Crystal Mountain over on the east side, there’s Baker,” he highlighted, reinforcing the variety available to snow sports enthusiasts.
In looking ahead, Skorheim mentioned that meteorological forecasts indicate a weak La Niña pattern, which is expected to bring cooler, wetter, and snowier conditions this winter. This forecast bodes well for those eager to hit the slopes.
For more insights and the full discussion, listeners can tune in to “The Jake and Spike Show” on weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM, or subscribe to their podcast for additional content.
With the winter season approaching and promising to deliver ample snowfall, locals and visitors alike can look forward to enjoying the outdoor activities Washington’s mountains have to offer.