Two snowboard standing in the snow against the backdrop of the beautiful snow-capped mountains

As the cool winds of winter settle into Eastern Washington, many of us are looking for chances to escape the daily routine and hit the mountains for some outdoor entertainment. As snow continues to pile up on the mountains, several area resorts are competing to bring in the most business and populate their slopes with skiers and snowboarders alike. The Pacific Northwest knows no shortage of excellent mountains for outdoor enthusiasts to shred, but this year we thought we’d shine a spotlight on Mission Ridge and their annual “Rails and Ales” event.

Background

In 1944, a B-24 Liberator (Bomber) out of Walla Walla crash-landed in the Squilchuck Basin. Nearly 20 years later in 1966, the first two chairlifts of Mission Ridge opened near the site of the crash. A wing section from this aircraft has been on display in the area ever since and is still mounted on steel poles above the infamous “Bomber Bowl” slope to this day. Mission Ridge has been a staple of ski and snowboard culture in Eastern Washington for decades due to the mountain’s fascinating history. The park is conveniently located in central Washington State, meaning that travel to and from the slopes is easy no matter where your journey begins.

Event

Rails and Ales is an annual experience hosted by the Mission Ridge Ski Resort that takes place in the city of Wenatchee. Slotted for Friday, March 10, the celebration marks the end of the winter season and offers one last chance to get outdoors and enjoy the snow. Orondo Avenue will be closed down to make way for a freestyle jam competition featuring some of the best skiers and snowboarders in the Pacific Northwest. In addition, many of the region’s favorite breweries will offer heated seating for you to relax and enjoy the spectacle. It’s the perfect time and place to send off the Winter and watch some of the region’s best athletes shredding through the streets of downtown Wenatchee. Don’t let the name of the event fool you however, there are plenty of fun events to engage people of all ages. Rails and Ales is proudly a family-friendly event and aims to keep it that way going forward.

Conclusion

If you’re hitting the slopes this winter, consider carving out some time to visit Wenatchee for Mission Ridge’s famous annual funfest. Rails and Ales is the perfect way to send off the winter in style, the perfect blend of excitement and relaxing atmosphere. If you’re a winter weather lover, don’t miss out on this year’s celebrations. You’re sure to find something to enjoy at the Rails and Ales event, and perhaps even start a new annual tradition.

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