SKYKOMISH, Wash. — One of the state's most popular ski mountains is opening for business Tuesday, with a new lift and an improved parking process.
Stevens Pass will have three of its lifts -- the Daisy, Brooks and Skyline -- open beginning at 9 a.m. PT Tuesday. Early-season conditions should be expected, however, as crews hope to open additional terrain "as conditions allow."
Kehr's Chair, named after Bruce Kehr, one of the resort's founders, is a new lift this season. It will officially open once the area it services gets enough snow.
A new parking program is also in effect for two of its lots. Lots A and G will be reserved for carpool vehicles with four or more occupants until the lots either reach capacity or at 1 p.m. There will be exceptions, as those who require ADA access, EV charger access and family parking for vehicles with one driver and two children aged 12 or younger or more will also be admitted to the lots.
Parking at all of Stevens Pass lots is on a first-come, first serve basis. Lots tend to fill up quickly, and parking on Highway 2 is illegal and will result in your vehicle being towed. Get more info on the different lots and a map at the resort's website.
Those looking to access Stevens Pass also have a new hands-free option available this season with the My Epic app. Mobile Pass and Mobile Lift Tickets can be activated on a mobile phone and allow skiers and snowboarders to get scanned automatically. Physical cards and lift tickets will still be provided this season to ensure a smooth transition.
Several on-mountain dining options will also be available starting Tuesday, with T-Bar, Cascadian Kitchen, Bull's Tooth, Trailside Snack Shack and the Foggy Goggle will be open. A new restaurant, the Pacific Cantina, will also be opening on Friday, December 15.
Stevens Pass joins Crystal Mountain, Mission Ridge, and White Pass as state ski mountains that are open for the 2023-24 ski season in Washington state.