Living deep and out of bounds on Washington's Blewett Pass

A snow lover's paradise awaits on the east side of the Cascades in Central Washington. Crisp open air, dry powder, and golden ponderosa pines are the hallmarks of Blewett Pass. Outdoor Project Contributors Max McClure and Benjamin Krause have been cross-country and backcountry skiing across this winter wonderland for the past few months, and below you'll find a few results that are sure to satisfy your snowy cravings.

Washington's Highway 97 cuts over Blewett Pass roughly halfway in between Ellensburg and Leavenworth. Historically a mecca for motorized recreation, the addition of numerous sno-parks and miles of cross-country trails has made this area more attractive for those who seek the solitude of wilderness. Skinning up Table Mountain + Diamond Head and then Tronsen Ridge not only provides you with impressive views of the entire Stuart Range, you'll also gain access to one of the best playgrounds for accessible and beginner friendly backcountry downhill skiing.

So, pack your skis and boots and head for the dry snow of Blewett Pass before winter's end!