The best Washington state mountain resorts for winter, ski, snowboard fun

Sometimes the best winter getaways start with an inland road trip through scenic mountain valleys and quaint hillside towns. Here in the Pacific Northwest, our mountain ranges offer an adventurous playground for downhill skiing and tubing, scenic hikes through snowcapped forests, and simply enjoying family time around the fireplace in a private cabin.

Whether you prefer high-adrenaline getaways or leisure and luxury, one needn’t go far to experience the very best of Washington State’s mountain resorts. As you plan your next getaway, be sure to review each destination’s specific health and safety guidelines. As each resort adapts to regional reopening phases, be sure to double check the current hours and availability of onsite amenities such as spa services, pools and hot tubs, and dining venues.

When you’re ready to get away, take a look at these top mountain resorts for making the most out of Washington’s winter months.

Salish Lodge & Spa: Snoqualmie, Washington

It’s no secret The Summit at Snoqualmie is one of the most popular destinations in the state for winter activities. While the recreational resort does not have their own on-property lodging, nearby Salish Lodge & Spa is just 30 minutes away and offers a cozy retreat in between slope sessions.

From interactive culinary experiences to pampering massage treatments at the spa, Salish Lodge offers a luxurious basecamp for outdoor adventurists. In addition to proximate access to tubing and skiing at The Summit, Salish Lodge guests can take in scenic views during a winter hike on the Snoqualmie Falls trail or venture out into the Cascade Mountain Range for even more scenic hikes.

At Salish Lodge, take in the local wildflowers home to resident Salish honeybees, then enjoy a rejuvenating honey-based treatment at the spa. Or look for honey-infused menu options in the dining room paired with a honey ale from Snoqualmie Brewery. The complete experience will leave you feeling fully immersed in the Pacific Northwest.

Sun Mountain Lodge: Winthrop, Washington

Start your winter getaway alongside the North Cascades with a cozy stay at Sun Mountain Lodge, just ten miles from downtown Winthrop. Take in quiet natural views and enjoy adventurous outings throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Methow Valley and surrounding mountain range. Driving here along Highway 20, known as the Cascade Loop, you’ll experience the country’s first National Scenic Highway.

Stunning views continue from your guestroom at Sun Mountain Lodge where options range from main lodge suites to family-sized cabins. Wine and dine in the privacy of your guestroom with onsite takeout dining options, or enjoy Winthrop cideries and independent eateries during your outings with the family.

Take a leisurely family hike to see Falls Creek Waterfall, venture out for cross country skiing, or enjoy the snowshoe trails around Sun Mountain Lodge. Bring your own gear or visit the activity shop at Sun Mountain Lodge for all your rental needs. For a low-key outing, enjoy hot chocolate and cider on a family sleigh ride through the scenic countryside. Enjoying a romantic weekend? Treat yourselves to a frosted sugar body scrub or relaxing massage at the spa.

Alta Crystal Resort: Greenwater, Washington

Located at edge of Mount Rainier National Park and just 15 minutes to Crystal Mountain’s snowy slopes, Alta Crystal Resort is an idyllic mountain getaway for families of all sizes. Loft accommodations provide two dedicated sleeping areas, while cabin rentals include a private hot tub on the outdoor deck. The resort also offers dog-friendly suites so the family pet can tag along for a recreational getaway.

Enjoy a low-key evening around the bonfire after a leisurely day sledding the resort’s hillside. Or venture into the greater outdoors with cross country skiing, snowshoeing or area hiking trails. The onsite year-round heated pool is perfect for family plunges, while the movie rental collection offers more than 700 options for a cozy night inside your cabin.

Ski and snowboard lessons are available at Crystal Mountain, where slope options range from beginner to advanced. Want to take in the sights without the workout? Enjoy a journey to the summit on the Mt. Rainier Gondola to take in a remarkable view of the Cascade Range.

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort: Leavenworth, Washington

No matter the size of your family, Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort has a suite deal for you with guestrooms and stand-alone cabin options aplenty. From family-sized cabins with bunk beds to romantic lodging for couples with a whirlpool bath in The Eyrie cabin, all accommodations are immersed within a natural setting ideal for restful sleep just a few minutes from the attractions of downtown Leavenworth.

Guests of Sleeping Lady can opt to relax with a dry sauna or body treatment at Aspen Leaf Spa, or explore the area with a bicycle rental or stroll through the property’s organic garden. Area activities include tubing, downhill skiing and Nordic skiing, with nearby trails and three ski areas easily within reach. A self-guided bird watching stroll may reveal osprey and woodpeckers along Icicle Creek and near Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery.

Take a trip into town to enjoy independent boutiques and outdoor dining throughout Leavenworth, then warm your winter hands with a hot chocolate or espresso from J5 Coffee. Take in a scenic wine tasting tour or enjoy local craft beer and an expansive whiskey selection at The Grotto Bar, onsite at Sleeping Lady.

The Lodge at Suncadia Resort: Cle Elum, Washington

Just 32 miles from The Summit at Snoqualmie, Cle Elum’s The Lodge at Suncadia Resort offers 6,000 acres of scenic landscape ideal for outdoor recreation. In addition to nearby slopes for tubing and skiing, Suncadia Resort offers more than 40 miles of hiking and cycling trails with varying levels of difficulty so the whole family can find their perfect path.

The Lodge at Suncadia Resort is perched above the Cle Elum River, offering expansive valley and mountain views. Most guestrooms offer kitchens and laundry facilities, so extended stays with the family will feel like a home away from home. Fireplace suites are ideal for cozy evenings with wine, while resort dining brings together regional ingredients and stunning views.

Onsite Glade Spring Spa weaves outdoor natural elements of flowing creeks and gardens with interior luxury, offering distinctly PNW-inspired treatments like detoxifying mud wraps and soothing soaks in the hot outdoor mineral bath. Current winter package promotions include resort credit applicable to the spa and recreational activities.