Little Washington Ski Areas that Rock?

I'm planning a big winter road trip here, leaving next Sunday... so how are the little Washington Ski Areas (en route to/from/between the Rockies, B.C., Idaho)? <br><br>Specifically are Mission Ridge, Mt. Spokane, and 49 Degrees North worth it for a steep skiing powder fool?

Mission Ridge is the area that was once reviewed as "The Little Ski Area that Rocks"<br><br>I've skiied at Mission and really enjoy the uncrowded slopes. If you are willing to skate / hike a little there is some nice terrain that doesn't get much traffic.<br><br>The north facing slopes of "Bowl Four" are often worth the effort.<br><br>I've never skiied at 49 -- but it's on my list of area's to visit. <br><br>I skied once at Mt. Spokane -- I can't say I'm motivated to return.

I agree with Randy on Mission Ridge. There is a problem however, none of these areas have enough snow right now to ski the little terrain that they have to offer. Dare I suggest postponing your trip? I grew up skiing over there and have been to most of the resorts. Mt. Spokane's best offering is night skiing mellow terrain when it's dumping (rare) and you can take your new girlfriend into the woods to make-out. Man, this is bringing me back! 49North has recently gladed the majority of the upper frontside terrain. If they have enough snow, this could be worth the stop (for one day). Nothing steep at 49 or Spokane based on Cascade standards. I think the best lift ski areas near Spokane include Schweitzer, Red Mtn., and Whitewater. This is in order of having worth. All are 3 hours or less from Spokane. Again, they need more snow to become worthwhile of spending your hard earned money. Whitewater has some great backcountry terrain...

Whoa, I just checked the Whitewater web site. They have a 28" base. DON'T GO PLEASE!! You will be very disappointed. They need a good 70" to ski there. Seriously. The terrain there is rugged. Similar to what baker ski area needs to open, only more rocks and less heather, and you won't be skiing steeps or powder. P.S.-We just cancelled our Rogers Pass trip due to lack of snow...

I've been to 49 and mt spokane. Neither are much. Schweitzer and Red Mtn are fun. I'd probably stop at Schweitzer if I was headed that way.

Thanks for the tips. I'm on my way to ski bigger mountains, including Whistler, Schweitzer, Fernie, Red Mountain, Big Sky, Bridger, Teton Pass, Roger's Pass?, Salt Lake, etc., so we'll see if there is any more snow at those little places on the way back...<br><br>But Mission will stay on my radar.<br><br>-Matt