The Summit At Snoqualmie - Alpental

Alpental is pretty decent, despite its small size. When the snow hits, it has rocking terrain. It's sister areas, however would make a person think they were in the mid atlantic. Crowded, small, run down and crowded.

The Summit at Snoqualmie was once four separate ski areas that were gradually combined into one resort.  The overall resort still has four base areas.  Three of these areas - now called Summit West, Central and East - are on the south side of interstate 90.  The remaining area - Alpental - is on the north side of I-90.  This review - and the ratings - only apply to the Alpental area.

Alpental is a very small ski area.  There are only four lifts.  However, these lifts access a lot of steep and interesting terrain.  There is over 2200 feet of vertical from the top of Denny Mountain to the base.  You can ski alpine bowls, old growth trees, ice waterfalls, chutes steeps and bumps in this small area.  

The backcountry is accessible through three gates.  It is at least three times as large as the skiable area inbounds.  It is a series of large open bowls that funnel down to tight runs and chutes carved into a series of cliff bands.  

Alpental has no terrain park, and the base area is very limited.  It isn't the sort of ski area you visit while on vacation, but for a local ski hill it has a lot to offer.

 

 

 This is a general review of Summit East, Central, and West.  I did a lot of my learning at Summit Central (Ski Acres) back in the late 60's and very early '70s.  This is a great place to learn, but not a place to visit if you're coming from out of town.  There is really no expert terrain.  For a few night turns it can be good, but it is super crowded on weekend days.  If you want great terrain go to Alpental, small but mighty and much worth a daytime visit.  Otherwise go to Crystal Mt. or Stevens Pass instead.  A little longer drive will pay off.