How to Go Skiing in Bluewood, Washington

Bluewood is a lesser-known ski area in southeastern Washington, east of the Tri-Cities area and northeast of Walla Walla. It has the second highest elevation base for a ski area in Washington state and enjoys about 300 inches of snowfall annually. It is an excellent choice for a ski trip, especially if you're tired of the long lines and waits at some of Washington's better-known areas.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access to book reservations
• Snow chains in adverse weather

Explore Ski and Lodging Options

1. Consider one of Bluewood's package deals available at the Weinhard Hotel or the Blue Mountain Hotel. They call these ski/lodging packages 'Bed, Breakfast, and Bluewood.' Included in these packages are lodging, continental breakfast, and lift tickets. Click on the link for 'Lodging/Dining' on Bluewood's Web site (see Resources below) for information about how to book these deals, or call 1-509-382-4725.
2. For other lodging options, including cottage rental and RV parks, visit the Dayton Chamber of Commerce (see Resources below) or call 1-800-882-6299.
3. Book season chairlift passes by filling out the online form on Bluewood's Web site (see Resources below).
4. Take lessons, which are available for people of all ski levels. There is a special for first-time skiers (called the 'Platterpull' special), as well as group lessons and private lessons for skiers and snowboarders.
5. Find lift ticket prices, which are moderate, on the Web site (see Resources below). There are discounts for children and students (Whitman College is only about 50 miles from Bluewood, Washington). There are also specials available for groups.

Travel to Bluewood

6. Fly into one of several local airports. The largest airport in eastern Washington is in Spokane, but you can also book a trip into smaller airports in Walla Walla and the Tri-Cities area.
7. Drive to Bluewood, Washington in your car or RV. It is located right off Highway 12, near Dayton, Washington. Look at the driving map on the Web site for more specific directions for your trip.

Tips & Warnings

• Booking reservations online offers you the widest variety of options for package deals.
• Bluewood is located a fair distance from major cities. It's about 80 miles from the Tri-Cities (Richland, Kennewick and Pasco). 50 miles from Walla Walla and 110 miles from Pullman. Think about staying overnight in the area if you don't want to drive for several hours on a one-day trip.
• Bring sunscreen, since this area gets a lot of strong sun.

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