Washington Spring Ski Events 2026: Pond Skims, Bikini Downhill & Closing Dates
Spring in Washington doesn’t arrive all at once.
One week it’s storm skiing in the Cascades. The next, the sun breaks through, base areas fill up, and someone’s testing their luck at a pond skim in a neon one-piece.
From Crystal Mountain to Stevens Pass, The Summit at Snoqualmie, and Mt. Baker, late winter and early spring bring a different kind of energy to Washington skiing — longer days, softer snow, live music on lodge decks, and closing weekends that feel more like reunions than festivals.
For generations, Sturtevant’s has been part of that rhythm — serving Seattle-area skiers from Bellevue to Tacoma before big spring weekends in the Cascades.
Spring is when Washington celebrates.
If you’re dialing in layers for Cascade weather swings, start with our guide to What to Wear in Washington & Montana — because here, spring can mean sun at 2 PM and sleet by 4.
Looking for specific dates for pond skims, closing weekends, or Crystal’s Bikini Downhill? Start here with the updated 2026 guide to Washington’s best spring ski events.
Crystal Mountain Spring Events (2026)
Crystal leans all the way into spring.
Return of the Bikini Downhill — April 11, 2026
The most recognizable spring ski event in Washington returns April 11, 2026.
The Crystal Mountain Bikini Downhill, presented by Elysian Brewing, is part costume contest, part closing-season party, and fully spring send-off. Skiers and riders swap insulated layers for warm-weather attire and send it downhill to a packed base-area crowd.
Expect:
- High spectator turnout
- Creative costumes
- Music and base-area energy
- Big closing-season vibes
MTN PRIDE: Pride in the Pow — March 20–22, 2026
Crystal’s MTN Pride weekend (March 20–22, 2026) brings themed ski days, music, and inclusive community events to the mountain. It’s one of the Pacific Northwest’s most visible spring ski celebrations.
Spring Conditions at Crystal
Spring at Crystal typically means:
- Firm, fast snow in the morning
- Corn snow by midday
- Slush at lower elevations in late afternoon
- Sunglasses over goggles more often than not
Projected 2026 closing: Late May (often Memorial Day weekend, weather dependent).
Stevens Pass Spring Events (2026)
Stevens doesn’t chase spectacle. It leans into tradition.
Sturtevant’s Spring Fling Demo Day — March 14, 2026
Sturtevant’s is proud to host our annual Spring Fling Demo Day at Stevens Pass on March 14, 2026.
It’s a chance to test new gear, ski spring conditions, and connect with the community before closing season ramps up. If you’ve been eyeing new skis or boards, this is the day to try them.
Stevens Pass Pond Skim — Typically Mid-April (TBA)
The Stevens Pass pond skim is traditionally held during closing weekend in mid-April.
Costumed skiers and riders line up, build speed, and attempt to skim across icy water — with mixed results and loud cheers. Dates are typically announced closer to closing and depend on snowpack.
Expect:
- Base-area crowds
- Music and giveaways
- Retro one-pieces everywhere
- A strong “see you next winter” vibe
Spring Conditions at Stevens
- Firm morning groomers
- Corn snow by late morning
- Slushy lower runs in afternoon warmth
Spring snow benefits from fresh structure and wax. Before pond skim weekend, check out our Ski & Snowboard Tuning Guide to keep your glide smooth.
Projected 2026 closing: Mid-April (weather dependent).
The Summit at Snoqualmie Spring Events (2026)
For many Seattle-area skiers, spring means heading east on I-90.
The Summit at Snoqualmie brings backyard energy — familiar faces, park laps, and community-driven events.
PacWest Banked Slalom — March 13–15, 2026
Confirmed for March 13–15, 2026 at Summit East, the PacWest Banked Slalom celebrates Pacific Northwest snowboard culture with a flowing banked course.
It’s competitive but approachable. A true staple of Washington’s snowboard calendar.
Spreefest — March 7, 2026
Held at Summit West on March 7, 2026, Spreefest is the wrap party for Outdoors for All’s winter fundraiser. Expect demos, a raffle, beer garden, slalom course, and live music.
Boarding 4 Breast Cancer – Love Your Peaks — March 14–15, 2026
Part of B4BC’s nationwide series (24 stops in 2026), this Summit East event blends riding with awareness and community.
SheJumps Wild Skills Junior Ski Patrol — March 28, 2026
Held March 28, 2026 at Summit West, SheJumps Wild Skills Junior Ski Patrol gives girls a hands-on introduction to mountain safety and first aid alongside women patrollers.
It’s rooted in skill-building, mentorship, and confidence — not marketing.
Spring & Closing at Snoqualmie
- Firm mornings
- Soft snow by midday
- Slush in lower elevations late afternoon
Projected 2026 closing: Mid-to-late April (weather dependent).
Mt. Baker Spring Events (2026)
Mt. Baker does spring its own way.
Golden Egg Hunt — April 4, 2026
Confirmed for April 4, 2026, Baker’s Golden Egg Hunt includes thousands of eggs and prizes — including season passes.
It’s playful, community-centered, and distinctly Baker.
Late-season rail jams and community sessions typically fill April weekends, though exact dates are announced closer to event time.
Projected 2026 closing: Late April, with possible weekend operations beyond.
2026 Projected Closing Dates (Weather Dependent)
As of early 2026 projections — always confirm directly with each resort:
- Crystal Mountain — Late May (often Memorial Day weekend)
- Stevens Pass — Mid-April
- The Summit at Snoqualmie — Mid-to-late April
- Mt. Baker — Late April
Spring operations shift with snowfall. Always check resort calendars before planning a closing weekend trip.
What to Know Before You Go
Spring skiing in Washington is about timing:
Morning: Edgeable and firm
Midday: Classic corn snow
Afternoon: Heavy, wet slush
That means:
- A fresh spring wax improves glide
- Lightweight, adaptable layers matter
- Sunscreen is essential
For wax, base structure, or a quick tune before closing weekend, visit your nearest Sturtevant’s location or explore our Ski & Snowboard Tuning Guide.
Washington Spring Ski Events FAQ (2026)
When is the Crystal Mountain Bikini Downhill in 2026?
The Crystal Mountain Bikini Downhill takes place April 11, 2026. It is one of Washington’s most popular spring closing-weekend events.
When is the Stevens Pass pond skim?
The Stevens Pass pond skim is typically held during mid-April closing weekend. The exact 2026 date is TBA and depends on snow conditions.
When does Crystal Mountain close for the 2026 season?
Crystal Mountain is projected to operate through late May 2026, often into Memorial Day weekend, weather permitting.
When is the PacWest Banked Slalom at Snoqualmie?
PacWest Banked Slalom runs March 13–15, 2026 at Summit East.
When is the Mt. Baker Golden Egg Hunt?
The Golden Egg Hunt is scheduled for April 4, 2026.
Why Spring in Washington Hits Different
Colorado throws major festivals.
Utah builds structured concert series.
Washington celebrates in its own way.
It’s pond skims without pretense.
It’s banked slaloms that feel like reunions.
It’s backyard mountains and familiar lift lines.
Spring here isn’t loud.
It’s earned.
And when closing weekend finally arrives — whether it’s Crystal in late May or Stevens in mid-April — it feels less like an ending and more like a thank-you.
See you on the slush lap.
Last updated February 23, 2026.
Washington Spring Ski Events 2026: Pond Skims, Bikini Downhill & Closing Dates
Spring in Washington doesn’t arrive all at once.
One week it’s storm skiing in the Cascades. The next, the sun breaks through, base areas fill up, and someone’s testing their luck at a pond skim in a neon one-piece.
From Crystal Mountain to Stevens Pass, The Summit at Snoqualmie, and Mt. Baker, late winter and early spring bring a different kind of energy to Washington skiing — longer days, softer snow, live music on lodge decks, and closing weekends that feel more like reunions than festivals.
For generations, Sturtevant’s has been part of that rhythm — serving Seattle-area skiers from Bellevue to Tacoma before big spring weekends in the Cascades.
Spring is when Washington celebrates.
If you’re dialing in layers for Cascade weather swings, start with our guide to What to Wear in Washington & Montana — because here, spring can mean sun at 2 PM and sleet by 4.
Looking for specific dates for pond skims, closing weekends, or Crystal’s Bikini Downhill? Start here with the updated 2026 guide to Washington’s best spring ski events.
Crystal Mountain Spring Events (2026)
Crystal leans all the way into spring.
Return of the Bikini Downhill — April 11, 2026
The most recognizable spring ski event in Washington returns April 11, 2026.
The Crystal Mountain Bikini Downhill, presented by Elysian Brewing, is part costume contest, part closing-season party, and fully spring send-off. Skiers and riders swap insulated layers for warm-weather attire and send it downhill to a packed base-area crowd.
Expect:
- High spectator turnout
- Creative costumes
- Music and base-area energy
- Big closing-season vibes
MTN PRIDE: Pride in the Pow — March 20–22, 2026
Crystal’s MTN Pride weekend (March 20–22, 2026) brings themed ski days, music, and inclusive community events to the mountain. It’s one of the Pacific Northwest’s most visible spring ski celebrations.
Spring Conditions at Crystal
Spring at Crystal typically means:
- Firm, fast snow in the morning
- Corn snow by midday
- Slush at lower elevations in late afternoon
- Sunglasses over goggles more often than not
Projected 2026 closing: Late May (often Memorial Day weekend, weather dependent).
Stevens Pass Spring Events (2026)
Stevens doesn’t chase spectacle. It leans into tradition.
Sturtevant’s Spring Fling Demo Day — March 14, 2026
Sturtevant’s is proud to host our annual Spring Fling Demo Day at Stevens Pass on March 14, 2026.
It’s a chance to test new gear, ski spring conditions, and connect with the community before closing season ramps up. If you’ve been eyeing new skis or boards, this is the day to try them.
Stevens Pass Pond Skim — Typically Mid-April (TBA)
The Stevens Pass pond skim is traditionally held during closing weekend in mid-April.
Costumed skiers and riders line up, build speed, and attempt to skim across icy water — with mixed results and loud cheers. Dates are typically announced closer to closing and depend on snowpack.
Expect:
- Base-area crowds
- Music and giveaways
- Retro one-pieces everywhere
- A strong “see you next winter” vibe
Spring Conditions at Stevens
- Firm morning groomers
- Corn snow by late morning
- Slushy lower runs in afternoon warmth
Spring snow benefits from fresh structure and wax. Before pond skim weekend, check out our Ski & Snowboard Tuning Guide to keep your glide smooth.
Projected 2026 closing: Mid-April (weather dependent).
The Summit at Snoqualmie Spring Events (2026)
For many Seattle-area skiers, spring means heading east on I-90.
The Summit at Snoqualmie brings backyard energy — familiar faces, park laps, and community-driven events.
PacWest Banked Slalom — March 13–15, 2026
Confirmed for March 13–15, 2026 at Summit East, the PacWest Banked Slalom celebrates Pacific Northwest snowboard culture with a flowing banked course.
It’s competitive but approachable. A true staple of Washington’s snowboard calendar.
Spreefest — March 7, 2026
Held at Summit West on March 7, 2026, Spreefest is the wrap party for Outdoors for All’s winter fundraiser. Expect demos, a raffle, beer garden, slalom course, and live music.
Boarding 4 Breast Cancer – Love Your Peaks — March 14–15, 2026
Part of B4BC’s nationwide series (24 stops in 2026), this Summit East event blends riding with awareness and community.
SheJumps Wild Skills Junior Ski Patrol — March 28, 2026
Held March 28, 2026 at Summit West, SheJumps Wild Skills Junior Ski Patrol gives girls a hands-on introduction to mountain safety and first aid alongside women patrollers.
It’s rooted in skill-building, mentorship, and confidence — not marketing.
Spring & Closing at Snoqualmie
- Firm mornings
- Soft snow by midday
- Slush in lower elevations late afternoon
Projected 2026 closing: Mid-to-late April (weather dependent).
Mt. Baker Spring Events (2026)
Mt. Baker does spring its own way.
Golden Egg Hunt — April 4, 2026
Confirmed for April 4, 2026, Baker’s Golden Egg Hunt includes thousands of eggs and prizes — including season passes.
It’s playful, community-centered, and distinctly Baker.
Late-season rail jams and community sessions typically fill April weekends, though exact dates are announced closer to event time.
Projected 2026 closing: Late April, with possible weekend operations beyond.
2026 Projected Closing Dates (Weather Dependent)
As of early 2026 projections — always confirm directly with each resort:
- Crystal Mountain — Late May (often Memorial Day weekend)
- Stevens Pass — Mid-April
- The Summit at Snoqualmie — Mid-to-late April
- Mt. Baker — Late April
Spring operations shift with snowfall. Always check resort calendars before planning a closing weekend trip.
What to Know Before You Go
Spring skiing in Washington is about timing:
Morning: Edgeable and firm
Midday: Classic corn snow
Afternoon: Heavy, wet slush
That means:
- A fresh spring wax improves glide
- Lightweight, adaptable layers matter
- Sunscreen is essential
For wax, base structure, or a quick tune before closing weekend, visit your nearest Sturtevant’s location or explore our Ski & Snowboard Tuning Guide.
Washington Spring Ski Events FAQ (2026)
When is the Crystal Mountain Bikini Downhill in 2026?
The Crystal Mountain Bikini Downhill takes place April 11, 2026. It is one of Washington’s most popular spring closing-weekend events.
When is the Stevens Pass pond skim?
The Stevens Pass pond skim is typically held during mid-April closing weekend. The exact 2026 date is TBA and depends on snow conditions.
When does Crystal Mountain close for the 2026 season?
Crystal Mountain is projected to operate through late May 2026, often into Memorial Day weekend, weather permitting.
When is the PacWest Banked Slalom at Snoqualmie?
PacWest Banked Slalom runs March 13–15, 2026 at Summit East.
When is the Mt. Baker Golden Egg Hunt?
The Golden Egg Hunt is scheduled for April 4, 2026.
Why Spring in Washington Hits Different
Colorado throws major festivals.
Utah builds structured concert series.
Washington celebrates in its own way.
It’s pond skims without pretense.
It’s banked slaloms that feel like reunions.
It’s backyard mountains and familiar lift lines.
Spring here isn’t loud.
It’s earned.
And when closing weekend finally arrives — whether it’s Crystal in late May or Stevens in mid-April — it feels less like an ending and more like a thank-you.
See you on the slush lap.
Last updated February 23, 2026.
