CONDITIONS FAQ

Why do you not report conditions for Summit Central and Summit East?
We report conditions for Alpental and Summit West. Summit Central and Summit East have similar elevations to Summit West, and therefore the weather does not vary much between the areas. Alpental has a higher elevation and is situated in a different valley, which usually leads to different weather conditions than the other base areas.

What is the phone number for the Department of Transportation (D.O.T.)?
511-- This number gives you a recorded message regarding road conditions, traction advisories, and weather on I-90.

What is the phone number for your snowline?
206.236.1600 We update our snowline a minimum of four times per day. If weather conditions are making a sustained change, we will update the snowline more frequently.

Why does the base depth sometimes decline?
There are several reasons this can happen: melting, air pockets being forced out of the snow as it settles, water running underneath the snow, etc.

BACKCOUNTRY & ALPENTAL FAQ

Why is Alpental closed on Mondays?
Because of its steeper terrain, Alpental requires more time to groom. Alpental also needs a day to rest and recuperate from the amount of skier and rider traffic it receives.

Why does it take so long to open Chair 2 (Edelweiss Chair) on a powder day?
Alpental is located in a box canyon where avalanche danger is very high, especially on days when there is new snow. Fresh snow requires extensive work by our ski patrol to minimize the threat of avalanche danger. To make the area safe for skiing the ski patrol has to perform many tests, which can take a long time after a big dump. When the ski patrol deems the terrain at minimal risk, they open the area to the public. However, avalanches can occur at any time. The best tool is education!

On a side note: The old "myth" that the area is being closed so the patrol can ski fresh snow is simply that, a myth.

Why is the backcountry sometimes closed?
The Alpental ski patrol constantly evaluates snow conditions in the backcountry and will close access to the backcountry when avalanche danger is high. Please note: while the backcountry may be open, there is always a serious risk of avalanches. Persons entering the backcountry should ALWAYS have a beacon, shovel and probe (and the knowledge of how to use these tools); and travel in groups of three or more. NEVER GO ALONE!

GROOMING FAQ

What percentage of your runs are groomed?
During the weekend nights, we groom approximately 80-85% of our terrain. During midweek time periods, we groom approximately 70% of the terrain that will be open the following day.

Are your runs groomed every night?
The aforementioned question answers what percentage is groomed per night. We place the highest priority for grooming on beginner and intermediate terrain.

How often is the pipe groomed?
Every night once it is opened, with the exception of Wednesdays.

How often is the terrain park groomed?
Every night.

How many groomers do you own?
16 snowcats and a Zaugg Pipe Monster.