A Pacific Northwest classic, skiing Muir Snowfield on Mt Rainier is a favorite in the summer for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Being one of the easiest routes to the summit, it also may be crowded with mountaineers. The descent is a great 4000 foot ride down the snowfield and then down the steep parts below Panorama Point. The route may have some glide cracks, but no crevasses.

Snowfield Peak lies in a pass in the high mountains above Pyramid Lake. There are multiple peaks along this pass that continue to reveal themselves as you climb higher and higher. There is glacier travel with crevasses in this route, so bring the appropriate gear and rope up as necessary. This is an exceptional route that is a bit challenging and provides various up and down sections. Camp near the top of Pyramid Peak and verify that there is a Low Avalanche Risk forecast.

One of the better tours in the area, Jim Hill Mountain is the major peak west of the Chiwaukum Range. Following a creek in the valley below the mountain, the route climbs to the west along the north ridge that leads to the summit. The descent is enjoyable down the northern bowl and into the valley you ascended through. Avalanche potential exist and thus conditions and forecasts must be verified.

A classic climb and one of the most popular on Mt Adams, Suksdorf Ridge or the South Climb is considered non-technical, but riders should still have mountaineering experience and bring crampons and an ice axe for hard snow to make the ascent. The trail begins at Cold Springs and leads to a place called Lunch Counter where you can setup camp. From here, you ascend directly up the Suksdorf Ridge to the false summit and then the summit. Descent is basically down the path you came up, but with only slight variations. Steep sections along the ridge and some chutes into some glaciated bowls characterize this ski.

A very popular spring ski, Glacier Peak is recommended early or on less crowded days such as weekdays. The route begins along a valley just southwest of Red Mountain. Before beginning the ascent, the trail goes by the old Mackinaw Shelter no longer in use. From here you'll continuously climb and views of the surrounding ridges ahead begin to open up. Following the southern ridge for the remainder of the climb. Bivy below the final ascent to the summit at about 7500 feet. The descent closely follows the ascent on glaciers and snowfields that are not extremely steep, but do have obstacles to be aware of.

Part of the rugged and remote Entiat Mountains, Mt Maude is known as the matriarch of this mountain range. Ice ax and crampons are needed for this long and hike to the summit of Mt Maude and skiing down the west slope is incredible if done in the morning. The route immediately climbs near the top of Carne Mountain and then follows the range along the side of Ice Peak and Glacier Peak. Camp before making the ascent to the summit of Mt Maude and possible do a few short runs off the ridge. The descent down the west side of the mountain is along avalanche chutes to the valley below. Avalanche potential does exist. The return follows the bottom of the valley all the way to the trailhead.

From the Paradise area on the south of Mt Rainier, this route leads along Skyline Trail to the top of Mazama Ridge. There are numerous drops off of the ridge that can be run multiple times. This route takes a steep drop off the ridge into a very clear run that leads into the valley below and then rejoins the trail for the return. Entry fee and backcountry permit are required as this is part of Mt Rainier National Park.

Being among the first of the Snoqualmie peaks to be skied, Silver Peak still remains a popular trip. The approach is relatively easy, with only the final section being steep. The entire ascent can be done in skis or snowshoes. From the summit, the descent drops into the bowl on the north side of the peak and then rejoins up with the ascension trail.

Just north of the White River across from Mt Rainier, Burroughs Mountain provides great views and spectacular spring skiing. This route ascends to the summit of Burroughs Mountain via the eastern ridge. The descent drops into two bowls, and stays close to the same trail used for the climb up. Entry fee and backcountry permit required as this is located in Mt Rainier National Park.

Along Interstate 90, McClellan Butte is a rocky-topped peak that fits in with the surrounding mountains. This route gradually climbs the southeast face of the butte and follows just under the rocks on top to reach the southwest portion of the ridge. The route does not go to the summit, but you could follow the back side of the ridge to the top if desired. From the ridge, the descent drops directly down the east side of the butte and into a chute that leads to the valley floor.