If you seek the premier ski destination in Washington state, Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is an exceptional choice. Situated merely a two-hour drive from Seattle, it boasts some of the finest powder in the Pacific Northwest and arguably offers superior terrain compared to nearby mountains, including Stevens Pass and Snoqualmie.
As the largest ski resort in Washington, Crystal Mountain provides expansive terrain suitable for all skill levels, making it the premier location for winter enthusiasts.
This guide will assist you in maximizing your visit to the mountain.
Crystal Mountain Overview
Terrain
Crystal Mountain, the largest ski resort in Washington, features 2,600 skiable acres and 2,400 vertical feet, offering numerous trails to explore.
With 11 lifts and over 80 named ski trails, skiers and riders of all experience levels will find suitable options, ensuring a memorable experience for the entire family.
For detailed trail maps, visit the Crystal Mountain Resort website .
Parking
For those without an Ikon Pass, daily parking costs $20. Several parking lots are available, and those situated farther from the mountain can utilize the shuttle service.
Lift Tickets
Lift ticket prices can be steep, ranging from $150 to $190 per day; however, a 3-day wild card pass is available for $299.
Consider the Ikon Pass, which provides broader access beyond Crystal Mountain at a base cost of $799 annually. This includes five days at Crystal Mountain, along with discounts at select restaurants and gift shops, plus complimentary parking at the resort.
Gondola Rides
A ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola is a must, even for non-skiers. On clear days, it offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, making the experience unforgettable.
Night Skiing
Crystal Mountain accommodates night skiing on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays until 8 PM, covering terrain from the Discovery, Gold Hills, and Quicksilver chair lifts, including access to Crystal Parks.
Snowshoe Trails
Crystal Mountain features six snowshoe trails in the Bullion Basin, with varying difficulties to suit all skill levels. It provides a wonderful respite from skiing, allowing further exploration of the area.
No snowshoes? Rentals are conveniently available at the Crystal Mountain rental shop.
Backcountry Skiing and Riding
Several groups organize backcountry skiing and riding excursions, catering to both beginners and seasoned participants. Organizations like the Mountaineers club offer courses for novices to familiarize themselves with skiing techniques and new terrains.
Terrain Parks
Crystal Mountain features multiple terrain parks offering jumps and rails suitable for both beginner and advanced riders. For more information, refer to Crystal Mountain’s website .
Getting to Crystal Mountain
Address: 33914 Crystal Mountain Blvd., Enumclaw WA 98022
Crystal Mountain is easily accessible via a two-hour drive from Seattle, making a day trip feasible, though a longer stay is highly recommended.
Accommodation Options
For lodging directly at the mountain, a few options are available. However, if you seek luxury amenities, this may not be the ideal choice.
The hotels are generally basic, with additional fees for amenities such as coffee makers, balconies, and televisions. Nonetheless, they provide a cozy shelter, and some allow pets.
The Village Inn
I recommend The Village Inn for its balcony and coffee maker, which were significant advantages for my stay. Additionally, specific parking is reserved for hotel guests, eliminating the need to use the main parking lots.
Please note the absence of an elevator; if you require accessible accommodations, inform the staff to ensure placement on the bottom floor.
The Alpine Inn
The Alpine Inn reflects a charming Bavarian style and is where breakfast is served. If staying at The Village Inn or the Quicksilver Lodge, you’ll need to traverse the main mountain parking lot to access breakfast.
It also houses the Snorting Elk bar and deli, a popular dining spot for evening meals unless you prefer the more upscale options at the Alpine Inn.
The location is picturesque, requiring a short walk across a bridge over a stream, with the Inn nestled in the woods. Parking is available in the main mountain parking area.
The Quicksilver Lodge
Similar to The Village Inn, Quicksilver Lodge is positioned closer to the mountain base, reducing commute time.
Dining Options
Snorting Elk Cellar
This establishment is ideal for dinner, boasting delicious food and a lively atmosphere. Arriving immediately after the lifts close may result in a seating challenge.
Designated a 21-and-over venue, the bar provides a cozy yet unpretentious environment with excellent service. The goulash and pizza are highly recommended.
This option is generally more affordable compared to the higher-end amenities of the Alpine Inn located above.
Alpine Inn
The Alpine Inn offers daily breakfast alongside a more upscale dining service for dinner, but it closes earlier than the Snorting Elk, so plan accordingly after a day of skiing.
Summit House Restaurant
No mountain experience is complete without a dining venue at the summit. At Crystal, you can ascend solely for lunch without needing to ski, simply take the gondola to enjoy the view.
Note that Summit House only serves lunch and does not operate in the evening.
Rafters
Rafters is an excellent choice for a midday break. The attentive staff ensure a welcoming atmosphere, making you feel like a valued guest during your stay.
The menu features classic mountain fare, including chili, sandwiches, and bar snacks. While beers are priced at around $10, Ikon Pass holders receive a 10% discount, and those with a full pass get 15% off.
Food Trucks
Several food trucks can be found at the base of the mountain, with the Alaska Fish truck providing delicious fish tacos. They also offer an Ikon discount and serve beer.
Vegetarian or vegan options may be limited, but selections exist, such as the pulled jackfruit sandwich at Rafters or a veggie burger and pizza at the Snorting Elk.
Nearby Attractions
National Forests and Mount Rainier National Park
This region is a paradise for outdoor adventurers, featuring Mount Rainier National Park and several national forests, including the historic Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Visitors can hike, snowmobile, or climb Mount Rainier, offering a multitude of activities in one beautiful location.
Enumclaw
Enumclaw is a charming, walkable town boasting a variety of restaurants, retail shops, and bars, making it a convenient base close to Crystal Mountain and local parks.
Reasons to Visit
Crystal Mountain not only features remarkable terrain and stunning views of Mount Rainier, but it also provides a unique experience where visitors can enjoy a more expansive and natural feel, rather than the typical ski resort atmosphere.
Such mountains are my favorite, as they provide a more immersive experience. Unlike locations such as Snowbasin, which offer a compact view of their terrain, Crystal resembles the expansive layout found at Powder Mountain in Utah, and even Vail. Although smaller than those two, the comprehensive spread of terrain enhances the overall experience.
Conclusion
Crystal Mountain Resort represents the quintessential Pacific Northwest getaway for a day or an extended weekend. It offers diverse terrain catering to various abilities, along with lessons for those eager to learn.
For further exploration of West Coast ski destinations, consider discovering the top mountains in Utah or Mount Bachelor, celebrated as a snowboarder’s paradise in Oregon.
