Stevens Pass struggles with weather chaos, fatal crash and partial refunds
Stevens Pass Ski Area has faced a turbulent start to its winter season. Heavy rain, road closures, and a fatal accident have left passholders frustrated, with many questioning when the resort would fully reopen. The ski area's owner, Vail Resorts, has now announced partial refunds for affected visitors.
The troubles began in December when a historic atmospheric river brought flooding and severe damage to Highway 2, the only direct route to Stevens Pass. The closure between Skykomish and Leavenworth lasted 10 days—shorter than the 2–4 weeks initially predicted by Governor Bob Ferguson. With access cut off from both directions, around 100 employees were stranded at the resort for over a week. Stevens finally opened on December 29, but skiers from the west still faced a 100-mile detour.
On January 7, another setback hit when a power outage forced the resort to close unexpectedly. Many visitors had already arrived in the car park by the time the announcement came, sparking complaints. The following day, January 8, saw eager skiers returning for a midweek powder day—only for tragedy to strike. A 27-year-old snowboarder died after crashing headfirst into a creek well.
Ellen Galbraith, the resort's general manager, has been overseeing operations through these challenges. On January 12, Vail Resorts responded to growing frustration by offering prorated refunds to some passholders affected by the Highway 2 closures.
The ski area remains open, but the season has been marked by delays, cancellations, and loss. Passholders who spent hundreds—or even over $1,000—on access will now receive partial compensation. Meanwhile, Stevens Pass continues to navigate the aftermath of weather damage and a fatal accident.
