How to Go Skiing in Crystal Mountain, Washington

Crystal Mountain, Washington is the largest ski area in the state and one of its best-known destinations. It sits at 4,400 feet and its summit reaches into the skies at over 7,000 feet. It has an annual snowfall of 350 inches, which makes for a very long ski season. Crystal Mountain has a large number of trails for a variety of skill levels. With spectacular views of the majestic Mt. Rainier from every place on the slopes, a trip to Crystal Mountain will be one of the highlights of your trip to the beautiful state of Washington.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Snow chains in case of heavy snowfall
• Computer with Internet access to book reservations

Explore Travel and Ski Options

1. Find the 'Lodging' option under the 'Plan Your Trip' menu on the Crystal Mountain Web site (see Resources below) or call 1-800-277-6475 to book reservations at the Alta Crystal. The luxurious but moderately priced Alta Crystal Resort is right at the base of the mountain, and you can book specials that combine lodging and chairlifts. These are especially a bargain on weekdays. There are also other lodging options provided on this menu.

2. Consider various options for tickets and passes. Crystal Mountain offers standard lift tickets, season passes, and discount books for people who don't ski enough to make the most of season passes but want to save money off daily lift tickets. Buy tickets online at the Web site (see Resources below) 24 hours in advance to save standing in line.

Get to Crystal Mountain

3. Book flights into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, if coming from outside Washington. Then book a rental car and follow the driving directions on the Web site (see Resources below). You'll start on Interstate 5 and make your way to Highway 412, which will take you into Mount Rainier National Park.

4. Find driving directions, from any direction, under the 'Plan Your Trip' tab of the menu on the Crystal Mountain Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• The Crystal Mountain Web site is very thorough and helpful. You will find most of your questions answered there, as well as an up-to-the-minute ski report. Book online for the greatest convenience.
• Try night skiing at Crystal Mountain, throughout the month of January. It's a totally different experience!
• Don't drink too much coffee before you leave, because bathrooms are not easy to come by on the way up the mountain!
• Because Crystal Mountain is so large and popular, it can be very crowded on the weekends during peak ski season. Be prepared for lift lines and crowded slopes. Consider visiting Crystal Mountain one day in the middle of the week, where you will have a lot more room and will be able to make more trips up the lift.