Stevens & Alpental access before opening

What is the policy on skiing (yo-yo runs) at and around Stevens Pass and Alpental ski areas BEFORE their official open. Once the snow starts accumulating up to a good base, which could be as early as end of this week, can you ski say the back side of Stevens Pass (aka Mill Valley)? Obviously with prudent avy consideration.

Never tried this since I got into randonee, I’m a regular at Stevens (pass holder) and always wondered if this sort of “access” was allowed.

I've hiked Alpental and Hyak numerous times early before they open without any problems. New management now though, so not sure if they will be any different. Never done any early season hiking at Stevens but I can't see there being a problem. I've never heard of any WA ski resort stopping early season hikers unless they are trying to do avalanche work.

I've done skiing at Stevens pre-season TONS of times....just to warm up the legs and say I got some turns in. I've never had a problem and have never had anyone tell me to stop doing it. The backside of Cowboy can be a real blast (Mill Valley takes a bit to get covered). ~Lara

most likely won't have any troubles, but i would recommend, if you don't already know, find where the patrol room is, see if anyone is around, ask them if there are any hazards you should be aware of and let them know what you are planning to do.  most likely if it is before the area opens they will not have a problem with it.

same with any groomers or lift maintenance, the last thing you want to do is ski across a winch-cat's cable. know how fast that could make two little persons out of one big person?  :'(  i'm sure the operator would be willing to tell you >
just be heads up for any machinery, lift maintenance, or patrol activities going on.

There was a helpful thread last year on the policy at Alpental. It doesn't sound like they have any problem with people skinning up, but that there are certain times when they need the resort clear of skiers. Here's the thread .

So I'd try to check in before I start skinning. I've also seen a sign posted around the base of Armstrong Express. Hyak's also a reasonable place to skin up, and I haven't been hassled there even when the lifts are running...