SNOQUALMIE PASS, Wash. — Heavy snow pounded Washington's most popular ski areas, like Snoqualmie Pass, throughout Sunday night.
Mt. Baker Ski Area even announced their plans to open to skiers and snowboarders this week. They took to Instagram to write, "Baker Passholder Day and Opening Day have been announced for Wednesday, November 20 and Thursday, November 21 respectively."
"We’re ready to get the kids geared up," said Katherine Leach, an avid snowboarder and mother of young children. "We're excited to get lots of snow. The last two years have been rough."
Leach, an Issaquah resident, drove her kids to Snoqualmie Pass Sunday afternoon, right as snow levels began to drop and temperatures got colder.
The passes may pick up several inches of snow before the showers end early on Tuesday, but another weather system will move in later on Tuesday, maintaining the wet pattern.
Taylor Gale, the HR and Operations Manager at a brewery on Snoqualmie Pass called Dru Bru, said the snow is a welcome sight.
"We're really ready to, like, have the long lines out the door again," Gale said.
Last ski season brought a below-average snowpack, which was underwhelming for many mountain businesses.
"I'd say 90% of our customers are coming from a recreation activity," Gale said. "Definitely can be a tricky year."
Several companies, including Dru Bru, had to cut down on labor costs. But new hope for a cold, wet winter is getting Gale and her customers excited.
"We headed up today to get the first dusting of snow," Leach said. "Brought the sleds.”
Judging by the new blanket of snow at the Summit at Snoqualmie, those itching to ski or snowboard may learn of an opening date soon.
"The stoke level is very high," Gale said. "So do those snow dances.
Pass travel, in the meantime, is highly discouraged throughout the Winter Storm Warning.
However, if absolutely necessary, you are advised to make sure you have chains on your tires, as they’re now required unless you have all-wheel drive.
The Washington Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers to load up their cars with ice scrapers and a snow brush, as well as water, snacks and warm clothes in your car.