Ready for spring skiing?

Hit the slopes before it is too late

By Rio Fernandes/JBLM PAO on March 16, 2017

Although not everyone has been thrilled about the sporadic flurries of snow this winter, skiers and snowboarders have been reveling in the constant snowfall in the mountains.

Some winter hot spots offer military discounts to help stretch your money when trekking out to the mountains as the end of the ski season nears.

Washington has several mountains and winter resorts to check out around the area. Some of the closest to Joint Base Lewis-McChord are Mount Baker, Crystal Mountain, The Summit at Snoqualmie and Stevens Pass. Each of these resorts offers a military discount for those with valid ID.

“We offer these benefits to the military and their families because they provide such a service for this country,” said Matt Porter, the senior manager of sales at Steven’s Pass. “It’s just a small way for us to say thank you for all that they do.”

If you decide to head out to Steven’s Pass, you’ll be able to save more than 20 percent with a valid military ID. With the military discount, all-day adults tickets cost $57 compared to the regular rate of $74. Children’s tickets are also cheaper, costing service members $35 compared to $45 for for an all-day pass.

Ski lessons and gear rental is also around 20 percent cheaper for those with valid IDs. There is also a military appreciation day planned for April 8, during which lift tickets, lessons and rental prices will be slashed in half for those with IDs.

Crystal Mountain is another option for service members interested in trying to save some money. Staffers take $10 off all tickets as a thank you. They also offer a military appreciation day April 9, which will feature $25 rentals and half price lift tickets.

There is also a half price military lodging discount in conjunction with the military appreciation day and various discounts throughout the season.

If you’re interested in staying closer, consider The Summit at Snoqualmie. It offers military discounts of all kinds, including cheaper lift tickets, rentals, lessons and access to the inner tube course. On average, service members will save $10 to $15 through the military discount.

If you opt to head to Mount Baker, you’ll enjoy a $5 discount with a valid military ID. These savings apply both to day passes and half day passes. Staff also provides discounts for lessons and a 30 percent discount for rentals.

For more information, visit each mountain’s website.