Mt. Baker Ski Area, Washington

Mt. Baker Ski Area: Deep Snow Across the Border

Mt. Baker Ski Area sits at the end of the Mount Baker Highway in Washington State, about two to two-and-a-half hours from Vancouver including the border crossing. It is famous for its extraordinary snowfall, steep and challenging terrain and an independent, no-frills culture that draws devoted skiers and snowboarders from both sides of the border.

The mountain

Around 1,000 acres of terrain are served by about ten lifts from two base areas, White Salmon and Heather Meadows, with views of Mount Shuksan. The area set a world record of 1,140 inches of snow in the 1998–99 season and still averages some of the highest totals of any ski area anywhere. Terrain leans toward intermediate and advanced, with gullies, cliffs, trees and big natural features, and the area has a long snowboarding history.

2026–27 season

Mt. Baker relies on natural snow, so opening day depends on the weather and is usually in early to mid-December. Season passes are capped and sold through set purchase windows, with returning passholders getting priority in September. Base area, lift and lodge operations can change from day to day with conditions, so check the snow report before you leave.

Tickets and passes

Prices are in US dollars. Day tickets are sold for the season, and passholders get perks such as free midweek days at Mt. Hood Meadows. Weekends and powder days are busy, so arrive early, as parking is limited.

Getting there from Vancouver

Cross the border at Sumas, Lynden or Blaine, then make your way to State Route 542, the Mount Baker Highway, and follow it east through the town of Glacier to the ski area. Carry your passport or NEXUS card, and check border wait times. Traction tires are recommended, and chains may be required on the highway in storms.

Good to know

• Best for: powder days, advanced skiers and riders, and snowboarders.
• Bring: passport or NEXUS, US dollars or a card without foreign transaction fees.
• Season: typically December to mid-April.

Comparing mountains? See our full guide to ski resorts near Vancouver for 2026–27, with opening dates, passes and where to stay.

Photo: Mt Baker Ski Area Chair 5 and Gabl's run by SherpardH1239a, licensed under CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.