On Thursday, April 16th, 2026, Mission Ridge was honored to be recognized by the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce with the Tourism Impact Award. Nearly 600 business, non-profit, and community leaders gather for this annual celebration of collective impact. It’s a powerful and inspiring event.
This award is meant to shine a light on organizations that create meaningful, sustainable visitor experiences while supporting the local economy and enhancing the quality of life here in the Wenatchee Valley.
To be recognized in that way, by our own community, means a great deal to all of us.
Mission Ridge has been part of the fabric of this valley for nearly 60 years. For many, it is a hometown hill. For others, it is a reason to visit, to explore, and to experience winter in North Central Washington. For all of us, it is something we care deeply about.
That care shows up in the people.
It shows up in the early mornings, the long nights, and the constant effort to create the best possible experience for every guest who makes the drive up the hill. It shows up in the way our team approaches challenges, and this past season gave us plenty of those.
Through one of the most challenging snowfall years we have seen, our teams pushed what was possible. Their commitment to snowmaking, grooming, and surface management kept more terrain open, more often, and created opportunities for our guests that did not seem likely at times.
That work matters beyond the mountain.
Annually, Mission Ridge welcomes locals and visitors alike to enjoy time on the mountain. Nearly one-third of all visits are from guests traveling from outside our immediate area. Those overnight visitors alone contribute an estimated $5 million in economic impact to the Wenatchee Valley.
At the same time, the majority of our visits come from right here at home. Local families, local skiers and riders, and a community that continues to show up year after year.
That balance is what makes this place special.
We are proud to be both a gathering place for our local community and a destination that introduces new people to this valley. Supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to a vibrant, year-round economy is something we take seriously.
This recognition belongs to our entire team, and to the community that surrounds and supports this mountain.
To our staff who put in the work every day, often behind the scenes.
To our guests who continue to choose Mission Ridge.
To the Wenatchee Valley community that has been part of this story from the very beginning.
Thank you.
We are proud to be part of this place.