Best all-season tire for 2000 Subaru Outback for W Coast and winter ski trips to mountains?

I agree.  "All Season" tyres are really only good for three seasons.  They don't do snow or ice well.  If you are looking for safety with that AWD you will gain a lot more safety with winter tyres.  AWD does not help you stop or keep you from sliding off the road.  It only helps keep you going and winter tyres help keeping you on the road and keeping you going on the road.