Crystal Mountain is the largest ski resort in Washington State with a total of 2,600 acres and over 80 named runs. Puget Sound skiers and riders flock to the slopes during the winter months to enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and to ride some of the best terrain in Washington State, only 2 hours away from Seattle in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Crystal also operates the Mt. Rainier Gondola for scenic rides during the summer so that guests can enjoy the beautiful views of Mt. Rainier all year long.
Gondola Cabin over cloudy valley

Mountain Stats

  • Named Runs

    85
  • Total Acres

    2600
  • Lifts

    11
  • Snowfall In Inches

    348

Crystal Mountain by the numbers

 
Elevation
Base – 4,400 feet
Lower Northway – 3,912 feet
Summit (top of the gondola) – 6,872 feet
Silver King – 7,012 feet

Acres
2,600 Total Acres
2,300 Lift serviced Acres

57 Designated Trails
Advanced/Expert – 35%
Intermediate – 54%
Beginner – 11%

AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL
348 inches (2001-2022)
HISTORIC DATES
Earliest opening date: October 1, 2013
Latest closing date: July 16, 2011

Lift Capacity
19,888 passengers per hour
Lift NameType of LiftVerticalStart ElevationEnd ElevationInstalled
Mt. Rainier Gondola8-Passenger24004,4566,8562010
Chinook ExpressHigh Speed 6-Passenger8504,4305,2801998
Forest Queen ExpressHigh Speed 6-Passenger11475,1036,2501997
Rainier ExpressHigh Speed 4-Passenger15845,2706,8541988
Green Valley ExpressHigh Speed 4-Passenger9205,8806,8002000
Quicksilver4-Passenger7174,4435,2602014
Discovery3-Passenger1624,4184,5801984
Gold Hills3-Passenger5884,4565,0441983
Northway2-Passenger18704,9006,7762007
Chair 62-Passenger9126,0806,9922014

The Ultimate Winter Escape
This Northwest jewel, which first opened in 1962, is located on the Northeast corner of Mt. Rainier National park.
The sprawling expanse of the ski terrain flows over half a dozen peaks and basins and lends itself to seemingly limitless variations. Experience breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Range from the top of the Mt. Rainier Gondola and Summit House restaurant; a place you can enjoy fresh Northwest cuisine and relax and reflect on the majesty of the towering peaks and sweeping views.

The keyword at Crystal Mountain is variety.
You’ll find 2,600 acres of everything from gentle groomed runs for beginners to challenging steeps, glades, chutes, bowls and expansive backcountry for the more adventurous skiers and snowboarders. Crystal Mountain averages 486 inches of snowfall annually which gives powder enthusiasts plenty to smile about. Check out our webcams for current conditions and beautiful views!

When it comes time to refuel, you have plenty of options.
From gourmet Northwest cuisine at the Summit House Restaurant to delicious brisket at The Rafters Smokehouse, you won’t go hungry. Don’t want to sit down? Grab a taco from Fireside Cantina or fish n’ chips from the Fish Shack at the base area.

Come for the day or stay the night.
We have three lodging partners that are conveniently located at the base of the mountain making for a great family vacation or a quick weekend away. Check them out on our Where to Stay page.

We’re closer than you think.
All this can be found less than 2 hours from Seattle and Bellevue and 1 1/2 hours from Tacoma.