What's the deal with the lines this year?

Is it the Epic pass or Ikon pass or something? At 9:30 AM, there was a half mile backup on every single off ramp from the freeway at Snoq pass, 52,53,54. Seems way worse this year than previous years. Or is skiing just getting way more popular?

Side note: a ridiculous number of people are skiing inbounds on touring gear. I even saw someone skiing on their own on the magic carpet on touring gear.

Exits 52,53 and 54 were backed up when we crossed Snoqualmie @8:15 this morning. I think New Snow + Sunshine + Crystal and Mt Rainier being blocked by landslides were all factors.

I skinned across the Crystal A parking lot in touring gear today.
No uphill allowed at resort so I went up Bullion Peak. Lots of snow, lots of wind, pit looked like a layer cake.
Cold north wind.
Powder was skied with touring gear.
Glorious day.
Nobody around.... ha ha.
Road blocked, no power at house and the propane ran out but the skiing was good.

Soup in the Elk was chicken lime and ginger which tasted better than it sounds.

Road to the Claw opened tonight but they are only letting mountain employees through the road block at MP 48 tomorrow.

They plan to reopen on Tuesday.

Yeah from what I've heard EVERY outdoor activity in the area was crowded yesterday and today thanks to the sun coming out. And I imagine Ikon holders who favor Crystal decided it was a good weekend to hit Snoqualmie. Along with others who would have otherwise hit Crystal.

Long lift lines at White Pass this weekend also. I think there were lots of refuges from Crystal and Bluewood.