Crystal Mountain

Area guide · Updated 2026, written by locals who play here year-round

Crystal is Washington's largest ski resort, and in our opinion, one of the most underrated mountains in the US. At 2,600 acres with a summit at 7,012 feet, it skis much bigger than its reputation outside the region suggests. Skiing Magazine has ranked it among the top 10 resorts in North America, and it earns that ranking.

Best runs by skill level

Beginners should stick to the Forest Queen for long, confidence-building runs with great views. Crystal isn't the most beginner-friendly mountain in the PNW (the beginner terrain is only about 11% of the mountain), so if you're a true first-timer, take a lesson before heading out on your own.

Intermediates have the run of the mountain, including Lucky Shot, one of the most scenic runs in North America. It’s an easy, wide-open run off the Rainier Express lift that offers uninterrupted, breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier. If there’s fresh snow, check out Memorial Forest for consistent tree skiing down an 800’ ridge.

Advanced and expert skiers will want to explore Powder Bowl, Niagara’s, Horseshoe Cliffs, and the sidecountry access off Silver King. These runs have world-class terrain that are best served on a powder day. 

The gondola

Even if you don't ski, the Mt Rainier Gondola is worth a trip in summer. It climbs over 2,400 vertical feet to the Summit House, where you get unobstructed views of Mt Rainier, the Cascades, the Olympics, and on a clear day, Mt Adams, Mt Baker and Mt St Helens. The Summit House restaurant is genuinely good. It’s one of the few mountaintop dining experiences in the PNW that's actually worth the trip.

Practical tips

• Buy lift tickets online in advance. Walk-up window prices can be higher.

• Parking fills fast on weekends and must be reserved in advance in the winter

• Crystal is on the Ikon Pass. If you ski more than a few days, run the numbers - the pass often pays for itself.

• Gear rental is available at the mountain, but bringing your own or renting in Enumclaw is cheaper.

Staying nearby

We have two family-friendly cabins along Highway 410, each a short drive from both Crystal Mountain and the Sunrise entrance to Mt Rainier. See our cabins →