Both daytrippers and hut-to-hut skiers flock to the North District of Mount Rainier National Park. Best suited for advanced beginners and intermediate skiers, the area offers five miles of groomed trails, 30 miles of ungroomed trails, and nearly ever-present views of Rainier.

Within Gifford Pinchot National Forest, the Peterson Ridge Trail in Akisson Sno-Park is a little-used nordic gem. Eleven miles round-trip, the trail runs past beaver ponds and climbs to an overlook, offering views of Mount Hood and Indian Heaven Wilderness.

When the sun is out, the snow is deep, and avalanche danger is minimal, hardcore skiers from all over the West Coast head to Crystal Mountain for unparalleled skiing. Just 76 miles southeast of Seattle, this resort offers diverse terrain—including 1,000 acres of wild backcountry skiing—and plenty of snow.

The aptly named See and Ski Trail in Wenatchee National Forest offers beautiful views of the Wenatchee River as it follows the waterway's meandering course. The wildlife that makes the river and its shore their winter home can often be seen along this scenic trail (about five miles round-trip).

For the full spectrum of winter recreation, head to Summit-at-Snoqualmie. Located 45 minutes east of Seattle in the heart of the Mount BakerSnoqualmie National Forest, this resort combines six downhill areas, cross-country trails, and a tow-rope assisted tubing park.

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