Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Waterville, Washington
Tel:
(509) 745-8273
Badger Mountain's resort was established in 1938 by a group called the "49 Club". The groups' mission was to find the perfect place for skiing, and it seems they did. Badger Mountain is perfectly situated so that the sun warms you up in the chilly mornings, while the shade protects the snow for the long run.
Badger Mountain is definitely what one would call a "micro-resort." It serves the nearby community of Waterville and is owned by the town. The cafeteria is run by the local Lions Club, a local farmer uses his tractor to groom the hill, and the fact that all staff members are local volunteers all contribute to the family-oriented atmosphere one finds here.
The mountain is composed of a grand total of five trails served by three tow lifts. The ski area is only 20 acres, but manages to cater to most skiers. There are no specialized facilities for snowboarders, but, assuming they have a leash, they are free to roam the mountain. The mountain's ski season runs from January till March, with the hill open on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 11:00am to 4:00pm.
There are additional activities available for those looking for a change in pace or in scenery. There are 5 kilometers of groomed cross-country trails, as well as the possibility of snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Badger Mountain Lodge provides all the amenities one would find on a bigger mountain; just at a smaller scale. The friendly, family-focused atmosphere comes with a bite to eat straight from the Waterville Lions Club. It is important to note that there are no equipment rentals at Badger Mountain so come prepared with your own skis or snowboard.
The size of this resort means there are limited dining and accommodation options at the foot of the mountain, but once you step into your car a wide variety of options present themselves. Five miles away at Waterville there are various restaurants to quench your appetite, while within a 15 mile radius you can find anything from coffee shops and Italian restaurants to fine dining. Just as close are a wide variety of lodging options to fit any budget, from RV parks to nationally recognized hotels, anyone can find an acceptable place to rest their tired feet.
From Badger Mountain Ski Resort - Waterville, Washington:
Get back to a slower pace of skiing - SKI BADGER! Badger Mountain Ski Hill was established in 1938 by a group called the "49 Club". This group searched the entire north face of Badger Mountain looking for a place that would retain snow and be suitable for skiing. They found the perfect spot! The hill is situated just right so that you get the sun in the morning and early afternoon then the shade covers the entire hill the rest of the day to protect the snow. Skiers, snowboarders, cross country skiers, snow-shoeing, sledding and snowmobiles-(off our skiing surfaces) are all welcome.