Skip to Main Content
  • Main slide 1
Trip

North Cascades, WA

Ski & Snowboard

Trip North Cascades Backcountry
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590
Escape to the North Cascades! Access amazing terrain and powder by snowmobile, and enjoy the classic Inn at Mazama as your base camp.

Grab a friend (or 2, or 3) and book this backcountry skiing & splitboarding adventure, meant for your private group of 2-4. If you’re looking for a long weekend, mountain getaway combined with backcountry touring in some of the most pristine surroundings in the Pacific Northwest, this 3-night escape is just the ticket. Spend three nights at the Inn at Mazama and disconnect from the daily grind while enjoying delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner from the Inn (included in your trip package). Located in the beautiful North Cascades, the unincorporated community of Mazama is an amazing escape in its own, as well as an excellent jumping off point for winter recreation.

Led by our partners at North Cascades Mountain Guides, enjoy two full days of snowmobile-accessed touring at Washington Pass.The North Cascades Highway corridor has dozens upon dozens of touring options and runs, and these pros accommodate a wide variety of skier abilities, from first-time backcountry skiers to enthusiastic intermediate to the expert ripper. Because these guides are out there most days of the winter, they are tuned in to finding the best snow and the terrain.

Select your group size (2-3 people or 4 people) and dates below.


Select Your Trip

January 13 - 16, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
January 24 - 27, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
Jan. 29 - Feb. 1, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
February 6 - 9, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
February 12 - 15, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
February 17 - 20, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
Feb. 26 - Mar. 1, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
March 9 - 12, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 2 - 3
January 13 - 16, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
January 24 - 27, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
Jan. 29 - Feb. 1, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
February 6 - 9, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
February 12 - 15, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
February 17 - 20, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
Feb. 26 - Mar. 1, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
March 9 - 12, 2021
Per person, based on a group of 4
Itinerary
Itinerary
Note: Choice of location and itin­er­ary are sub­ject to change due to weath­er, con­di­tions, or oth­er rea­sons beyond our con­trol and in the guide’s best judgment.
  • 1
    Day number 1
    Welcome to the Inn at Mazama! After you’ve checked into your comfortable room at the lodge, meet in the lobby for a welcome wine tasting, courtesy of the Lost River Winery in Winthrop. Relax, enjoy a delicious dinner (served room service style, in your room), and get a good night’s sleep before tomorrow’s adventure.
  • 2
    Day number 2
    Enjoy your breakfast this morning of fresh baked pastries, granola, juice, coffee and more delivered to your cabin from The Inn's kitchen. Take a short walk to the NCMG office where you’ll meet your guide, talk about the tour plan for the day, and head out into the heart of the North Cascades on snowmobiles! Your NCMG guide will take you out for some of the best turns of your life! Washington Pass provides excellent terrain and often plentiful powder, but by snowmobile our options are virtually limitless. After a full day of adventure, return to your cozy retreat in Mazama. Savor another delicious dinner and maybe a nightcap, then rest up in preparation for another big day.
  • 3
    Day number 3
    Repeat! Day 3 will be another full day of snowmobiling and ski touring, followed by unwinding back at the Inn, in your room, in the cozy common areas of the lodge, or under the stars by the bonfire.
  • 4
    Day number 4
    Pack up and enjoy your final breakfast at the Inn, unless you plan to extend your stay at the Inn at Mazama (if interested in extended stays and/or additional activities, please feel free to let us know). Take good care and have a safe journey home!
Trip Package Includes
  • 3 nights of accommodations at the Inn at Mazama (based on double occupancy)
  • 10.4% total lodging and sales tax
  • Welcome wine tasting
  • Safety equipment
  • Snowmobiles
  • Backcountry guide and instructor
  • Departing beer flight
  • 20% off service and 10% off rental at evo Seattle store
  • 20% discount code at evo.com (exclusions apply)
Trip Package Does Not Include
  • Transport to/from Mazama 
  • Meals (options available at the Inn at Mazama)
  • Personal backcountry ski/snowboard clothing & equipment 
  • Alcohol outside of welcome wine tasting and departing beer flight
  • Snacks (recommended for touring days)
  • Guide gra­tu­ities
  • Travel insurance (we recommend World Nomads)

Questions? Call or email us!
Area Information

Mazama, WA


The unincorporated town of Mazama is located just off Highway 20, 14 miles northwest of Winthrop in the Methow Valley. Located in the spectacular North Cascades (often called the "American Alps"), Mazama is an excellent jumping off point for remote, backcountry activities both from the backdoor of the Inn at Mazama, and to close by touring zones such as Washington Pass and Loup Loup Pass.
 
Trip Planning

Trip Planning

Nothing can ruin a trip faster than having the wrong gear for the conditions at hand.  All our programs are subject to rapid and severe changes in the weather.  Select garments that are warm, lightweight and durable.  Generally speaking, the best arrangement is to think in terms of layers – a system that dries quickly, allow flexibility and resists wind, water and abrasion. All of us have different tolerances for heat or cold; for example, you might choose warmer gloves than specified here if you tend to get cold hands. If you have doubts about a specific garment’s appropriateness, please talk to your guide in advance about conditions you are most likely to experience. 

This list is built for a trip with an unsettled weather forecast.  With a good weather forecast some of these items may be left behind to save weight. All trips require that you bring adequate food and water, please see our “food” equipment list for details.

Ski / Snowboard Equipment
Clothing
Other
FAQ
FAQ
  • Do I need to have a group of 2-4 to book this trip?
    Yes, this trip is intended for a private group of 2 to 4 people (including yourself). Due to COVID and the desire of North Cascades Mountain Guides to maintain the utmost safety and precautions, we are not currently mixing groups of travelers on the same trip.
  • Can you tell me about the accommodations?
    The Inn at Mazama is located in the town (nay, hamlet) of Mazama, at the upper end of the Methow Valley in Washington state. At the Mazama Country Inn our lodgings are unique. We have 18 guest rooms, each of which has a private bath (some units have showers only). Fourteen of our rooms have at least a queen size bed and four of our rooms have a king size bed with a queen size pullout couch. The rooms are warm and comfortable, with lots of wood yet airy and light. All rooms have in-room coffee and tea services. And best of all, while we do have free WiFi for all guests, there are no telephones or TVs in our rooms!
  • How do I get there?
    The Inn at Mazama is located just off Highway 20, 14 miles northwest of Winthrop in the Methow Valley. Mazama can be reached either from the west over the North Cascades Highway (except when closed in the winter, generally from mid November through late April) or from the south via Wenatchee and Chelan. Both routes offer beautiful scenery.
  • What COVID-19 policies do you have in place?
    The health and safety of our guests, employees, and community are top priorities. With that in mind, the Inn at Mazama has added a day between reservations to enable housekeeping staff to perform an extra thorough cleaning of the rooms. Further, there will be no daily housekeeping during your stay. And, of course, Inn staff will wear masks, keep a safe social distance and wash their hands, in accordance with CDC guidelines. We also ask guests to wear masks inside all buildings and common areas (though not in your room), and to follow social distancing guidelines. The Inn has keypad locks so you can go right to your room upon arrival. Prior to your arrival you will receive the code to your room. The swimming pool, hot tub and gym are all closed for now, but we anticipate reopening these amenities (with restrictions) when Okanogan County is allowed to enter Phase 3. The Inn’s restaurant will be open for “takeout” four nights per week (Thursday through Sunday). You can visit the Inn’s restaurant page for information about takeout dinner options.
  • What level of skier or snowboarder do I need to be?
    This course can be taken on alpine touring skis or splitboard. True beginners are welcome! evo or North Cascades Mountain Guides can provide rentals.
  • Do I need any prior training to participate in this course?
    This course can be taken on alpine touring skis or splitboard. True beginners are welcome! Regardless of your skill level, we can tailor the experience to be the right fit for you. evo or North Cascades Mountain Guides can provide rentals, if needed.
  • Who are the guides?
    North Cascades Mountain Guides, based out of Mazama, are a group of experienced, professional instructors offering courses and private guided trips in backcountry skiing, rock climbing, alpine climbing, mountaineering and ice climbing. The majority of our guides are trained and certified by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and the owners are instructors and examiners for the AMGA. Our goal is to provide exceptional mountain experiences by having the best guides in the business and by only offering low-ratio, high-quality trips to the most amazing mountain ranges in the world.
  • Are rentals available?
    Yes, rental gear is available and can be rented directly through the evo Seattle store for 10% off. You may also rent avalanche safety gear directly through NCMG.
  • What is the food like?
    Fresh and delicious! For breakfast, options include egg sandwiches, assorted pastries, granola or cereal, yogurt, and coffee or tea. For lunch, you'll be sent out for the day with a sack lunch including deli sandwiches (veggie options available), chips, fruit, dessert, and natural sodas. For dinner, choose from a variety of soups, salads, and entree options including pasta dishes and signature pizzas. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
  • Will I be able to dine in the lodge, or will all meals be served in-room?
    Due to COVID, guests will be asked to eat in their rooms. The Inn at Mazama has installed mini fridges and microwaves in all rooms. Each day you’ll receive a meal order sheet so you can tell the Inn what you are interested in for the next day.
  • What is the maximum number of guests on the trip?
    There is a maximum of 4 guests for this trip. Depending on your preferences, you may book with a group of 2, 3, or 4 people (including yourself).
  • What if I need to cancel?
    evo will refer to the Inn at Mazama + North Cascades Mountain Guides cancellation policies. The Inn is very flexible and allows cancellation at least 24 hours before your stay with a full refund - this would only apply to the lodging portion of your package. However, for the guided activity portion of your trip by NCMG, you must cancel at least 30 days prior to trip dates for refund less a $50 administrative fee. If you cancel within 30 days of your trip, NCMG will work with you to issue a future travel credit to another NCMG program. If you need to cancel due to COVID, please let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate a refund or future travel credit.
Testimonials
NCMG is a great guiding outfit, really professional and experienced guides and took me higher than I've ever been before. A great way to experience the mind blowing beauty of the North Cascades!
S.C.
Trip Guest
Toured with a group of friends last weekend guided by John and Drew of NCMG. From start to finish we were treated to a safe, beautiful and well-organized backcountry adventure despite high avalanche potential… the skiing was outrageously fun and the guides clearly had given much thought to terrain and safety. Wish I could do it again next weekend!! Recommend NCMG without hesitation.
Robin
Trip Guest
I loved my trip with NCMG, the guide was very knowledgeable and I learned a ton. The North Cascades themselves are a gorgeous range and the views were breathtaking. The low ratio of clients and guides is what really sets this guide shop apart, I will be returning!
JP
Trip Guest

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590
Trip

Las Trancas Chile

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Select Your Trip

A destination near you

Coming Soon
Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590