Top Ten in Washington

The glaciated peaks of Washington's Cascade mountains offer up a wealth of backcountry ski getaways. No, we're not talking about cozy cabin retreats for the weekend; we're talking about pristine slopes, plenty of powder, a dearth of people, and some very fine rides. Here's a checklist of top ten descents to whet your winter appetite.

1. Silver Star - North Bowls
Season: December - May
Length: One day
Skill: Advanced
Guru quote: Count on Canadian light powder in December

2. Mount Baker - Coleman Pinnacle
Season: November - May
Length: One day
Skill: Intermediate
Guru quote: Outstanding alpine views with secret stashes

3. Mount Shuksan - Sulphide Glacier
Season: April - June
Length: One day
Skill: Advanced
Guru quote: Gets above the clouds on a real mountain

4. North Cascade Highway 20 - Easy Pass
Season: April - May
Length: One day
Skill: Intermediate
Guru quote: A lovely day in the Park

5. North Cascade Highway 20 - Blue Basin
Season: December - June
Length: One day
Skill: Intermediate
Guru quote: So many options your head will spin

6. North Cascade Highway 20 - The Secret Traverse
Season: April - May
Length: One day
Skill: Advanced
Guru quote: True Òwhite Wilderness - high alpine, stellar views, reliable powder

7. Stevens Pass Highway 2 - Heather Ridge
Season: November - April
Length: One day
Skill: Intermediate
Guru quote: Short but sweet

8. Stevens Pass Highway 2 - Jim Hill
Season: December - May
Length: One day
Skill: Advanced
Guru quote: North facing, usually revealing powder long after a snowfall

9. Snoqualmie Pass I-90 - Chair Peak
Season: December - April
Length: One day
Skill: Intermediate
Guru quote: A close-in often overlooked gem

10. Crystal Mountain Highway 410 - Norse Peak
Season: November - April
Length: One day
Skill: Advanced
Guru quote: East/West exposures always hide powder