Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort officially kicked off the 2025/26 season on Thursday, December 4th.
After an unseasonably warm and rainy November, a sustained stretch of cold temperatures allowed snowmaking and grooming teams to make tremendous progress across the mountain over the preceding week. Mission Ridge was successfully the first ski area to open in Washington this season, an accomplishment made possible by the resort’s top-to-bottom snowmaking system and world-class snowmaking crew.
The resort began the season with a limited opening on Chair 1, The Wenatchee Express (Chair 2), and the Pika Peak Rope Tow – operating from 9am to 4pm Thursday through Sunday. Open terrain was limited to Sunspot, Tumwater, Mimi, and the Pika Peak beginner’s area.
“Seeing our teams rally those last several days was incredible,” said Matt Neubauer, General Manager at Mission Ridge. “Snowmaking, grooming, vehicle maintenance—every department was working around the clock to take advantage of every single cold window. Opening on Thursday was a testament to their grit, teamwork, and dedication to providing our community with the opportunity to ski and ride as soon as possible.”
Chief Mountain Officer Ethan Howell added, “We were thrilled to open the season. After a difficult November, the recent progress was incredible. This past week showed the very best of our team. Snowmaking windows were short, but the crew maximized every one of them. Every department pushed hard to bring the mountain to life. While early-season terrain was limited, the excitement was high, and we were ready to welcome everyone back to the mountain.”
Guests are encouraged to ease into the season and as always, ski and ride with care. Early-season conditions still exist, and some areas have thin coverage. Mission Ridge urges all visitors to follow the Your Responsibility Code and stay on open, designated terrain.
Resort Services
All primary services were open throughout the Opening Weekend (December 4-7) and will continue to operate:
-
Chair 5 Pub & Ka Wham Café: Open 8am–4:30pm
-
Midway Lodge: Open 10am–2pm Thursday/Friday (until 3pm Saturday/Sunday)
-
Season Pass & Ticket Office, Rentals, Retail, and Snowsports School: Open 8am daily
-
Lift ticket prices remain discounted to $85 for ages 25-69, $75 for ages 18-24, $55 for ages 13-17, $45 for ages 8-12, $9 for ages 7 & under, and $29 for ages 70+ for tickets purchased in advance and online to reflect the limited opening of chairlifts and terrain.
Firefighter & Emergency Personnel Appreciation
Mission Ridge is honoring local heroes through the Firefighter & Emergency Personnel Appreciation Program, offering free skiing and riding from Opening Day (December 4th) through Sunday, December 14th for Firefighters, EMTs, Law Enforcement professionals, and 2025 seasonal personnel.
Looking Ahead
As temperatures stay cold and snowmaking continues, the Mission Ridge team will work to expand terrain and services as quickly and safely as possible. Updated information will be shared regularly on missionridge.com and through official resort channels.
“We were excited to kick things off last Thursday,” Neubauer added. “The energy is high, and winter is finally here. Let’s enjoy the mountain together.”
About Mission Ridge
Located in North Central Washington, just 12 miles from Wenatchee, Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort offers 2,000 acres of terrain, 2,250 vertical feet, and the second-highest base area in the state. Known for its dry snow, stunning views, and welcoming community. More information can be found at missionridge.com.
