Weekend getaway: Hurricane Ridge Ski, Snowboard Area

What: If you spend your days on the slopes ripping up double-diamond runs, this is not the place for you. But if you are looking for an inexpensive day on the hill for a family of beginners, you won't find a better deal in Western Washington. If you want steeps and glades, they're within hiking distance. You also can find terrain for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.

When: The area is open 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Where: Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park.

Getting there: Follow U.S. 101 to Port Angeles, turn south on Race Street then a slight right on Hurricane Ridge Parkway.

History: This is the western-most ski area in the contiguous United States and is one of only four located in a national park.

Cost: Lift tickets are $27, $25 after 1 p.m.; bunny hill passes are $11. Rope tow-only tickets are $22 or $20 after 1 p.m. Additionally, an entry fee of $15 per car (good for seven days) is required to get into Olympic National Park.

Also: The road to Hurricane Ridge is open seven days a week, weather permitting, but call the road hotline (360-565-3131) before you go. Hurricane Ridge averages 400 inches of snow each year. There are 10 trails on 100 acres. The vertical drop is 800 feet with a highest point at 5,500 feet. The ski area even has a terrain park. There is one poma lift and two rope tows. Cross-country skiing is available in other parts of Olympic National Park. Season passes for families of up to five people are $425.

Information: hurricaneridge.com