When I need some open space, and a quiet and peaceful place to unwind, I look to Stevens pass Washington. In the winter it’s a full blown ski and snowboard resort. But in the summer, everything is closed and its very quiet except for people stopping to relieve themselves to and from the opposite sides of the Cascades.
The Pacific NW trail runs straight through the area. But to make the hike a little more interesting I hike (climb) straight up the front side under the ski lifts to the top of the mountain. At the top you have the most panoramic views that I feel are the closest to home for me.
Its a spectacular place to feel and breathe the fresh, cool alpine air. Just writing this story at my desk at work makes me feel like i’m there right now. I would recommend the climb to anybody willing to tackle a very steep incline.
Zach Wist Everett, WA
That is inspiring. I’ve been to Stevens Pass many times but never in the summer and I can only imagine what it would feel like to experience being at the top on a warm summer day playing with the snow.
That sounds like my kind of place! Well, OK…I’ve been there too! Zach describes this area quite accurately. The summer air is warm and fresh, while the winter air is chilly and burns your cheeks a cherry red. The views are gorgeous. Thanks for the reminder!
What a nice way of putting your experience at Stevens Pass. I have been skiing there and traveled over the pass several times but I also have never enjoyed the Pass during the warmer months. I am going to make this a goal.
Very inspiring Zach. I recently have just started to get out on some trails and do a little hiking myself. I will defiantly have to get up to Stevens. Thank you for sharing your experience!
This story makes me want to climb that mountain right now! Too bad I have to wait for summer. Can’t wait to bring my family and crazy dog, and enjoy the view, take pictures and just be.
I would love to visit Stevens Pass one day. All of Washington is beautiful I can’t wait to visit again in July.
Wow! That sounds like tons of fun and I would have never had thought of that area! Sounds like a great place to get fresh air, clear your mind, and cleanse your soul!
Hey that sounds good to me, the veiws are great in the winter, I’ll bet they are just as good or better in the summer.
Makes me want to be there right now, taking in the views, breathing the wonderful fresh air and just being at peace in the quietness of it all!
That’s a great article Zach. Makes me want to go! Love the way you described it all.
You are a fresh air junkie…the closer you are to the top of the mountain, the closer you are to God! You are close to home Zach! He gave you the best views from above. Next time I climb a hill, I will be reminded from your article, that I truely am “Closest to Home!”
Zach you rock. I love to snomobile so i know what you mean about views and crisp air. I have never tried going up there in the summer but this year i think i will have to do it.
Stevens Pass is my favorite place in the winter to snowboard I love the views from to top of the mountain with all the snow capped peaks. In the summer it is so peaceful and quite, the air is clean and fresh and the green scene is a perfect contrast from the winter months. I feel so relaxed just thinking about being at the top at this very moment. Thanks Zach for such a true story! Happy hiking from one nature lover to the next.
I’ve never been, but after reading this I definitely plan on checking it out. Great story!
Wow! I have never been to Stevens Pass – I think I may just have to go! In summer for sure. =)
Wonderful! Thank you! I shall take my self to the mountain this summer. Please come with me to protect me from the bears and wolves. I’ll bring my binoculars, water, first aid kit and lunch. Love, Granma Shirley
thank you all for the great positive feedback on my story. i forgot to mention that in the summer you can walk right up to the chairlifts and take a seat and maybe swing a little while you eat some lunch and enjoy the view from the bottom… All in all it is a wonderful place. thank you so much.
Sounds breath taking! I mean it would really take my breath away!! I’m not an avid hiker, but that sounds like a reason to start getting into shape to be one. I’d love to make that a goal. Thanks for sharing! It sounds awesome!