One of the earliest openings in some 30 years, and 7 inches of new snow overnight enticed us to visit The Summit West - the only one of the four areas, which form part of The Summit, that is currently open this Saturday in November.

Conditions were pretty good, for November. Most of the thinly covered areas we well marked so we avoided any damage to our skis. The lift lines at the 4 chairs moved fairly well, and the staff were all very helpful and attentive to all the people who were either new to the sport or had a lot of rust to scrape off since the last time the resort was fully open... in 2003.

The only downside was parking. There did not seem to be any resort participation in organizing parking. That was the most frustrating part of the trip, and I hope the resort puts some resources into this shortcoming the next time we visit.

The Summit at Snoqualmie is actually 4 ski areas (2 really)... Alpental and The Summit (East, Central and West). I have not yet been to Alpental so these comments are in regards to the other areas. The best thing I can say about them is that they are close to Seattle. I can be on the slopes in 45 minutes. They are OK for learning and intermediate terrain, not much else. The ski areas can get pretty crowded, especially on weekdays. Since their elevation is fairly low (under 4000 ft) they can be in the clouds a lot... even when it appears to be sunny in Seattle!
If you need a quick ski fix, and it is a sunny day, got for it. I will get to Alpental this season.

First, the attitude at this mountain is all about having fun. Many skiers are locals that have been raised skiing at Snoqualmie. This makes for many die-hard skiers that have a loving passion for the sport and a anxious to share it with others. If you are looking for a challenge I would take a quick trip over to Alpental. Here you will find steep and deep and some beautiful back country scenery. If you wish to spend your time skiing groomers I would stick with Summit West or Central. As the innovation of skiing "park" central has seemed to catch on. With a top to bottom park built of jumps, rails, boxes of all shapes and sizes this is a great place to come play. They even have a progression park for those of you just scratching the surface of skiing park. With tight liability they are now requiring you to sit through a 15 minute "park class" to inform you on how to "Smart Style." Overall The Summit at Snoqualmie has something for everyone. With me being an instructor this is an AWESOME place to learn how to ski with friendly staff and day and night program. Don't forget to stop inside for some great grub too! Have fun and be safe.