Shames Mountain Ski Area is the highest snowfall area for which we have no corroborating data. However, based upon reputation and a location with exposure to Pacific storms similar to Stevens Pass, we are confident that Shames' snowfall is comparable. As at Stevens, the primary risk is not drought but rain, though Shames is 7 degrees of latitude farther north and thus rain frequency should be lower than in the Washington Cascades. Shames is most attractive to backcountry powder skiers who climb above the lift service into the high alpine terrain.

Accumulation and Preservation

There is no question that early season accumulation is excellent at Shames, assisted also by the 54 degree latitude. Shames' elevation range is 2,300 - 3,900 and primary exposure is southeast, so melt/freeze conditions are likely in from mid-February onwards if it has not snowed recently. There are 2 heliski operators nearby that ski at much higher elevation with powder conditions common well into April.