White Pass Expansion

White Pass is moving right along with the implementation of their 2007 MDP FEIS.  Two new chairlifts (1 Express Quad, 1 Fixed Quad), ski runs and a mid-mountain lodge are slated to be ready by winter 2010-2011.  The new expansion area is located in the Hogback Basin just to the southwest of the existing ski area.  At 747 acres, this will be the largest ski area expansion in Washington State since the 1960′s*.

If you’ve never ridden White Pass you should sometime.  Rarely crowded, the ski area has a base elevation of 4000 feet and gets consistent cold/dry air from eastern WA which helps keep the powder from turning to chowder–usually.  The in-bounds terrain is really fun.  They have some steep north facing stuff that’s great on a pow day and long rippable top-to-bottom groomers.

I’ve hiked around the new expansion area quite a bit–it looks super fun.  The terrain is super rolly and littered with mini tree islands.  Take a look at the aerial photo of the expansion area–you can see the tree islands clearly.  These new lifts will access some short, hikeable terrain too.  This new expansion will make for a riding experience like nothing else in Washington.  I’m excited to check it out next winter.

Here’s a map of the expansion and an aerial photo.

Here’s a few pics of the new lift towers and trails taken last March 4th, 2010.

Also here’s a sneak peak at the upcoming nwBroweather 3D trail map for White Pass.

For more information on the expansion check out the White Pass Website.

Related Posts: