Mount Baker

Home to the Legendary Banked Slalom, one of the longest traditions in snowboarding and that sport’s most famous race, Mount Baker in Washington State, USA, is a quite a special place. Apart from the Banked Slalom, the biggest reason is the ludicrous amount of snow that falls here. Really, it’s quite unbelievable how much of the white stuff Mount Baker gets.

Mount Baker holds the world record for the most snowfall in a single season, for a total of 1140 inches in the 1998-99 season. That’s 29 metres. 29! It’s not just a one off though, on average this mountain receives over 640 inches every year, or 16 metres, which is the most of any ski resort anywhere in the world. On the mountain itself you’ll won’t find huge amounts of pistes and there are just 10 lifts in total but the runs they service are suitable for all standards. Newbies and those looking to get plenty of mileage in might struggle to do lap after lap on piste as the there’s just 457 metres of vertical available, but the runs available are mostly through the trees , but it’s a dream for the off-piste powder hounds who have access to some challenging descents and some even more challenging backcountry. To make the most of what’s available, and to to stay safe, you’ll need to have a guide with you.

There’s no accommodation on the mountain itself but a number of great lodges and chalets just a short drive away along Highway 542 so you’ll need a car or jump on the local bus service. Mount Baker Lodging has a great selection of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes, from simple condos to luxury houses suitable for large groups.