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Snow has finally arrived at Snoqualmie Pass, bringing early winter excitement to skiers, snowboarders and mountain businesses hoping for a much stronger season than last year.
Two inches of fresh snow fell over a 24-hour period at The Summit at Snoqualmie on Wednesday, Oct. 28, according to the resort’s mountain report. The snowfall brings the season total to three inches so far.
A Promising Snow Start at Snoqualmie Pass
The first measurable snowfall is a welcome sight across the Cascades, although it is still far too early to determine whether the region will see a consistently snowy winter. Resort officials are currently targeting a mid-December Opening Day for The Summit at Snoqualmie.
That schedule depends heavily on conditions over the next several weeks. The resort has previously said it typically wants roughly two feet of snow on the mountain before opening for regular operations. More snowfall will be needed to build a safe base across the trails and establish reliable coverage for skiers and snowboarders.
Last season, Summit West did not open until Dec. 23, while Alpental’s opening was delayed until Jan. 7. The late start limited the amount of time available for winter recreation and created challenges for businesses that rely on visitors during the ski season.
Last Winter’s Difficult Conditions Hit Businesses
The previous winter was marked by heavy rain, catastrophic flooding and major road closures. Those disruptions made it difficult for visitors to reach the mountains and reduced the number of people spending time at the resort and nearby businesses.
At Dru Bru brewery, Taproom Manager Zoe Russell described the 2025-26 ski season as one of the worst the business has experienced. The lack of skiers and snowboarders affected sales at the taproom, while poor summer conditions brought additional setbacks.
Wildfires and heavy smoke closed several popular hiking trails during the summer, limiting outdoor tourism even after the traditional ski season had ended. Russell said the business felt trapped in an extended “shoulder season,” when visitors could not reliably hike, ski or snowboard.
“We definitely have something that we call ‘shoulder season,’ where you can’t quite hike yet, you’re not quite skiing yet, and it just kind of felt like we were shoulder season all year long,” Russell told KOMO News.
Snow Dances and Community Events Return
To offset slower sales, Dru Bru hosted trivia nights, “pray for snow” parties and other events designed to attract local customers. The brewery is among many mountain-area businesses hoping that improved winter conditions will bring back visitors and strengthen the local economy.
“Everyone from the guys that are brewing our beer to our taproom employees, everyone kind of feels that hit when we’re not selling as much beer,” Russell said.
Travelers heading over the pass should continue to monitor forecasts and road conditions as winter weather develops. Early snowfall can quickly create slick pavement, reduced visibility and changing traction requirements, particularly during storms or periods of freezing temperatures.
What the Early Snow Means for Skiers
- The Summit at Snoqualmie is targeting a mid-December opening.
- Two inches of fresh snow fell on Oct. 28.
- The season snowfall total has reached three inches.
- About two feet of snow may be needed before full resort operations begin.
- Last season’s openings were delayed by poor mountain conditions.
For now, the snowfall is more symbolic than substantial. Still, the arrival of a winter storm gives skiers and snowboarders a reason to be optimistic after months of disappointing conditions.
“I think everyone is just gonna take what we can get,” Russell said. “We’re doing our snow dances and putting the spoons under the pillow.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Snoqualmie Pass Snow
When is The Summit at Snoqualmie expected to open?
The Summit at Snoqualmie is currently targeting a mid-December opening, though the date depends on snowfall, temperatures and trail conditions.
How much snow fell at Snoqualmie Pass?
Two inches of snow fell over 24 hours on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The season total reached three inches.
How much snow is needed before the resort opens?
Resort officials have previously said they aim for approximately two feet of snow on the mountain before opening.
Why was last ski season difficult for local businesses?
Heavy rain, flooding, road closures, limited snowfall, wildfires and smoke reduced visitation and shortened opportunities for skiing, hiking and other outdoor activities.
