There should be a book written about Meany Lodge and its ski area. It exists in a time warp, way back in the forest, which you reach by hopping on a snow cat for a ride in or by holding onto a rope tow and skiing in behind the snow cat! About 30 people can hitch a ride on the cat at one time.
The operation is run by volunteers and owned by The Mountaineers, a non-profit group of mountain/skiing/climbing enthusiasts. This fascinating group was formed back in 1906 with a mission to “preserve and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.” Their lodge, built in 1928, has an ambiance of true relaxation and blissful retreat from what other modern ski areas offer. Tucked way back in the backcountry, it is a haven and gem for those who yearn for a taste of what skiing was like way back when.
Meany Lodge is large and open with alpine style paintings and it looks magical covered in snow with its sharply peaked roof and Tyrolian ambiance.
To ski, you take the rope tow. It is about 1,200 feet long and climbs about 500 feet high. As you reach the top the climb becomes quite steep. Where else can you go skiing and take a snow cat in then clamp onto the tow rope to climb to the top?? This is a truly unique, old fashioned, wonderful experience that obviously is well loved by the amount of people of all ages who flock here. In fact, there are three tow ropes to get to the top, one each for beginner, intermediate, and expert.
The ski conditions are what legends are made of. Deep fluffy powder. Untracked and ungroomed. Skiers in their 90's, children, and snowboarders joyfully share the hill. There are over 30 trails that descend from the top providing exciting skiing unlike anywhere else. With a view! The expert trails go up to expert double black diamond. There are also a large number of groomed cross country trails running through and around the hill and back into the surrounding countryside.
Back at the lodge, everyone eats dinner at once. Everyone waits in the big room until it comes out steaming from the kitchen chefs. You can sleep at the lodge, which is an event in and of itself, in a hostel type atmosphere, with room, food and hot showers. About 97 people can stay at the lodge at one time. Families, teenagers, couples---everyone mixes in and enjoys the event. If you plan to stay at the lodge, bring a sleeping bag, towel, change of clothes, and toiletries. Since you will only be using a tow, they recommend you bring gloves with sturdy leather palms.
A total joy for learning how to ski, Meany Lodge offers lessons for beginners, snowboarders, cross country skiing, and for telemarking. Classes are very small and once you learn how to ski a hill like this, with untracked powder and mostly ungroomed trails, you are bound to find skiing other hills a piece of cake. There are tons and tons of classes and events, so if you go, make sure to check their web site to sign up ahead and also to reserve your overnight spot at the lodge.
Meany Lodge is about 60 miles east of Seattle, Washington, set on a ridge near the old Stampede Pass Railroad Tunnel. If you live in Seattle, move to Seattle, or plan to spend time in Seattle, it is definitely worth purchasing a season pass, which allows you an unlimited number of overnight stays at Meany Lodge as well.
The Meany Lodge is an expert level skier's dream come true! The unpacked runs for experts are incredibly challenging and absolutely thrilling. There are four packed runs to accommodate beginner and intermediate level skiers. All 32 runs are privately owned by Meany Lodge and are used only by those staying at the lodge. If you have never skied private slopes, you simply must stay at Meany Lodge. It is so very different from the average commercial ski area. I highly recommend this to all. Roseann Lahey
A different ski resort with a different style, Meany Lodge will take you back to undilluated ski trails, fresh powder and loads of fun. Skiers everywhere call Meany the only "lift assisted back country skiing; anywhere!" With lodging for up to 97 people, food and relaxation, why would you choose anywhere else when you can experience true skiing at Meany. Heather Shephard
