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Backcountry
Skiing & Splitboarding
In Seattle WA
Getting started
Escape the lift lines and earn your turns with Gearhouse as we explore the deep, untracked snow of the PNW backcountry! Whether you're chasing dreamy powder, scenic skin tracks, or just an excuse to avoid overpriced resort nachos, backcountry skiing and splitboarding offer the ultimate adventure. Our custom trips and courses are designed for all levels—whether you're starting near Washington's major hubs like Seattle or planning bigger road adventures into the alpine wilderness. Gearhouse makes it easy to connect with others, sharpen your skills, and dive into unforgettable ski & splitboard tours across iconic terrain. The mountains are calling, but out here, it’s all about knowing where to go, when to go, and how to stay safe while having a blast. If you're ready to trade chairlifts for skin tracks and fresh turns, come join us on one of our expertly guided trips. Let’s explore responsibly, ride smart, and make every lap one to remember.
What you'll need for Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding in Seattle WA
Gear
Splitboards (incl. Bindings, Climbing Skins, Folding Poles, optional Crampons)
K2 Backcountry Touring Skis & Climbing Skins
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Probe, Beacon, and Shovel
Packing List
Alright! You've secured your gear, what else is there?
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Splitboard or Ski Touring Kit: Ski/splitboard, boots, adjustable poles
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Avy Recuse Kit: Beacon, Probe, Shovel
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Repair kit: tools and spare to get you back to the trailhead when your gear fails.
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Layered clothing appropriate to the weather.
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Shell Jacket & Pants
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Insulating layers
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Helmet & Goggles
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Gloves
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Dry clothes for the ride home
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Lunch & snacks
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1-2L water
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Day pack with 10 essentials: food, water, sun protection, clothing, navigation, headlamp, fire starter, repair kit, first aid, emergancy blanket.
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Optional: ski crampons
Beginner Tours
Mount Hyak
A Perfect First Stop for Ski & Splitboard Touring Near Seattle, WA
Hyak is a great first stop to stretch out the legs and get into the rhythm of ski touring and splitboarding, especially if you’re new to the sport. Located just a short drive from Seattle, WA, Hyak offers a gentle introduction to backcountry trips while still delivering that pure winter magic. It’s an active ski area, so you’ll need to be mindful of downhill traffic, but you can still explore beautiful powder stashes and enjoy mellow runs without the pressure of bigger alpine objectives.
Drive past the first ski areas on Snoqualmie Pass to reach the Hyak Sno Park. A Sno-Park Pass is required for parking here or you can park at Snoqualmie Ski Area if you have the right parking privileges there (often included in a resort season pass - check their website for details as it changes each season).
From the lot, skin southwest (SW) up to the summit of Mount Hyak. From there, run easy laps back to the car until you’re satisfied! Most terrain here sits at 32 degrees or below—ideal for newer backcountry travelers—but remember: even though it’s near a ski area, you must treat it like true avalanche terrain if you're venturing out of bounds.
For advanced backcountry skiers and splitboarders seeking bigger climbing objectives, you can drop down the Hyak-Catherine Connector. This descent heads southwest from Mount Hyak and gives you a few adventurous options to access Mount Catherine’s summit. Mount Catherine offers stunning runs for intermediate to advanced backcountry riders, but caution is key—the trees thicken quickly, and there are cliffs hidden along the way. Once you’ve enjoyed your day, simply reverse your route to return to the parking lot.
Helpful notes:
Hyak is part of the Summit at Snoqualmie Ski Area, and their uphill travel policy changes often. Make sure to check it before heading out! Currently, you’ll need to follow designated uphill travel routes and purchase an uphill travel pass ($5 for the season). You can get a pass, review policies, and download the uphill travel GPX file directly from their website before your trip.
From the lot, skin southwest (SW) up to the summit of Mount Hyak. From there, run easy laps back to the car until you’re satisfied! Most terrain here sits at 32 degrees or below—ideal for newer backcountry travelers—but remember: even though it’s near a ski area, you must treat it like true avalanche terrain if you're venturing out of bounds.
For advanced backcountry skiers and splitboarders seeking bigger climbing objectives, you can drop down the Hyak-Catherine Connector. This descent heads southwest from Mount Hyak and gives you a few adventurous options to access Mount Catherine’s summit. Mount Catherine offers stunning runs for intermediate to advanced backcountry riders, but caution is key—the trees thicken quickly, and there are cliffs hidden along the way. Once you’ve enjoyed your day, simply reverse your route to return to the parking lot.
Helpful notes:
Hyak is part of the Summit at Snoqualmie Ski Area, and their uphill travel policy changes often. Make sure to check it before heading out! Currently, you’ll need to follow designated uphill travel routes and purchase an uphill travel pass ($5 for the season). You can get a pass, review policies, and download the uphill travel GPX file directly from their website before your trip.
For advanced backcountry skiers and splitboarders seeking bigger climbing objectives, you can drop down the Hyak-Catherine Connector. This descent heads southwest from Mount Hyak and gives you a few adventurous options to access Mount Catherine’s summit. Mount Catherine offers stunning runs for intermediate to advanced backcountry riders, but caution is key—the trees thicken quickly, and there are cliffs hidden along the way. Once you’ve enjoyed your day, simply reverse your route to return to the parking lot.
Hyak is part of the Summit at Snoqualmie Ski Area, and their uphill travel policy changes often. Make sure to check it before heading out! Currently, you’ll need to follow designated uphill travel routes and purchase an uphill travel pass ($5 for the season). You can get a pass, review policies, and download the uphill travel GPX file directly from their website before your trip
Advance Tour
Slot & Snot
Drive towards Alpental, between the main Alpental parking lot (the one with the bridge going towards the resort) and Lot 4 (the last lot on the road, is the maintenance lot. Ie. drive past the main lot and park in the next lot on your left. The skin track starts up the Phantom Slide Path just across the road.
The Slot and Snot Couloirs are awesome advanced ski tours and Cascades Classics. Do one, do both. Unlike the Snot, the Slot couloir does not require any rappels to access the route.
Helpful Notes: This one can get very busy. Be mindful of avalanche conditions, but if you want it fairly untracked you’ll have to work for it. You can either head right back to the parking lot through the ‘exit notch’ as shown below or continue your tour off towards Snow Lake and back through Alpental Valley. Other awesome spots for advanced skiers looking for steepness: Bryant Peak couloir (most accessible), Alpental Side country, Alaska Adventure Zone, Holy Diver Couloir
Rent The Gear. Explore The Adventure
Get ready to take on the mountains this winter. From gliding over fresh powder to hitting the park, our lineup of touring ski & splitboard rentals has you covered.
Skill Check
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Build experience step by step – Start with simple terrain, learn the basics, and gradually work your way up. Heading out with mentors and experienced friends is a great way to gain confidence, pick up tips, and make sure you're making good decisions in the backcountry.
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Solid downhill skills – You should be comfortable skiing or riding all snow conditions on blue runs—because backcountry snow has zero quality control.
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Earning your turns – Skinning uphill is all part of the adventure! It’s a steady climb through peaceful, snow-covered forests, with plenty of chances to take in the views, chat with friends, and embrace the rhythm of the mountains—plus, the ride down feels even better when you’ve earned it.
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Layering like a pro – You'll be sweating on the way up and freezing at the summit—adjust accordingly.
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Navigation and decision-making – Out here, there’s no ski patrol to bail you out, so knowing your route and assessing terrain is key.
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Avalanche awareness – Before heading out with more experienced friends, it’s highly recommended to take an avalanche awareness class with NWAC or Gearhouse. Snow safety isn't just cool—it’s essential.
Snack discipline – Backcountry days are long. If you don’t pack enough snacks, you will regret it.
Where to go
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Kendall Tree at Snoqualmie
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Mt. Kulshan (Baker) Backcountry
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Paradise Zone on Mt. Tahoma (Rainier)