Let’s be honest: ski trips are an expensive way to spend the day.
The tickets alone are a large expense, let alone the proper gear, equipment rentals, food, and lessons that can quickly add up. The planning required to put a ski day together can be quite the headache as well, but here are some tips to get the best bang out of your buck for a day out on the slopes.
Fun puffer jackets might be enough to keep warm at school, but likely won’t cut it for the deep chills up in the mountains. Especially when night skiing and the sun has gone down, it’s important to layer up and be prepared with proper waterproof gear. The sports store Play It Again Sports maintains a location nearby in Woodinville. They have a great selection of gear for a considerably more reasonable price compared to brand name shops. Their shop is easily accessible, and they offer anything from hand warmers to full pairs of skis.
The snowboards and skis themselves are slightly more difficult to find deals on. Without having to commit to purchasing equipment outright, renting is always an option. Stevens Pass offers rental packages directly at the mountain, available for single or multi-day use. Sturtevant’s Ski Mart is located somewhat out of the way in Bellevue, but has several package options available in regards to skis, snowboards, and boots. Picking up this equipment at a second location adds time and extra steps to the trip, but their prices are less costly than any deals offered directly at the mountain. Making sure to book online rental reservations in advance at either Stevens Pass or Sturtevant’s is also an easy way to ensure a discounted offer.
Turning the entire trip into a nighttime adventure can also chip some weight off of the grand total. Stevens Pass offers reduced costs for tickets that start mountain access after 3 pm, though night skiing adds its own layer of risk. The runs are just as fun in the dark, but it’s important to remember goggles clear enough to see in the dark and to add an extra layer or two to the packing list for reduced temperatures.
The slopes themselves are open until 10 pm, however the three lodges at Stevens close at varying times. Most of the large variety of dining and shopping options close around 7 pm, so watching the time can come in handy if a food break is called for. Bulls Tooth tavern remains open to the night owls up until closing time, however it’s important to remember that getting home safe from the pass can become more of a challenge the later it is in the night.
Regardless of skill or experience level, ski days offer all different kinds of fun. Planning ahead is the best way to get discounted offers, but spontaneous trips can also lead to lasting adventures. In the end, making it through the day with the proper equipment it the best way to guarantee a good time.
