Crystal Mountain Ski Resort - Mount Rainier National Park, Washington A Ski Resort for All Seasons

Crystal Mountain, which is located just 6 miles from the northeast entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, was discovered in the 1800's by people looking for their fortune. The first visitors struck gold and immediately people flocked to the mountain looking to get rich. Originally Crystal Mountain was known as The Summit Mining District. After WWI mining sharply decreased and the focus shifted to exploring the recreational opportunities of the mountain. A sale of stock to 200 people funded the beginning of the park and Crystal Mountain Ski Resort opened its doors in the winter of 1962.

Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is the largest ski area in Washington State with approximately 2600 acres and 50 named runs. The various runs and trails cater to skiers and snowboarders of all ages and ability levels. The longest run is Northway which measures 2.5 miles. The base of the mountain is 4,400 feet while the summit is 7,012 feet. The average snowfall per year is over 350 inches and lift capacity is at 20,310 passengers per hour and there are 11 lifts total.

Crystal Mountain offers lessons for people of all ages and abilities. They have a world class adaptive program that provides year round lessons on outdoor activities to people with disabilities. For the advanced outdoor sport enthusiast Crystal Mountain offers high adventure programs that help people discover the mountain's m any secrets.

The resort also offers a wide variety of activities throughout the summer months. Visitors are able to enjoy scenic chairlift rides every Sunday as the chairs climb 2,500 feet up the mountain. People are able to see the mountain from a bird's eye view and experience seeing wildlife, lush vegetation, bubbling brooks and scenic fields of wildflowers.

At the Summit House visitors are able to see not only Mt. Rainier, but the peaks of Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Baker and Mt. Hood. There are 7 hiking and bike trails for people to enjoy and explore. Horseback riding, camping, swimming, scenic drives and a disc golf course are all available to summer time visitors.

Crystal Mountain is also available to host business meetings, retreats, weddings and other gatherings for groups of up to 350 people. Atop the mountain people are able to dine at the Summit House Bistro. Summit House is the highest restaurant in the state of Washington at an elevation of 6,872 feet. Special dinner packages and sunset dinners are available for groups or couples looking for a romantic night out.

Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is only 90 minutes from Tacoma and 105 minutes from Seattle. From Seattle drive south on Interstate 5 and take exit 142A to Auburn and follow highway 164 to Enumclaw and highway 410 east for 33 miles. Once inside Mount Rainier National Park drive 6 miles up to Crystal Mountain Boulevard.

The summer season at Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is from mid June to mid September. Winter season depends on weather conditions.