One of the very best reasons to visit Washington State during the winter months is to experience the sensational ski resort of Crystal Mountain. Poised below the imposing Mount Rainer which towers to over 14,000 feet, Crystal Mountain enjoys a top elevation of over 7,000 feet and a vertical drop over over 3000 feet.
The months of November to April bring several feet of fresh powder snow to Crystal Mountain, this being a reliable happening thanks to the cold Cascade storms common to this area. This factor alone makes a compelling reason to visit this first class Washington State ski area.
Mount Rainier looks down 7,000 feet to the summit of Crystal Mountain and from this vantage point Mount Rainier can be enjoyed in all its magnitude. From Crystal Mountain an expansive pasture of 2,300 acres of all manner of skiing makes for what is undeniably the largest area of skiing in Washington State.
Expert skiers are attracted to the area for its rugged terrain and deep snow; however, less advanced skiers should not be intimidated. Crystal Mountain, offers a wide variety of skiing for every level of ability. There are 53 runs, 30% suitable for advanced skiers, 57% for intermediates and 13% for the relatively inexperienced. The longest run is known as Northway and boasts a stretch of 2.5 miles (4km).
There is a lift capacity of over 20,000 passengers per hour with 2 high speed six-passenger lifts, 2 high speed quads, 2 triple chairs, 4 double chairs and a child's surface lift. This is challenging terrain and therefore there is less on offer for beginners as this area really caters for the more advanced skier. Despite this bias towards the more experienced skier, lessons are available and there is rental available for skis and other equipment.
Operating from 8am to 4pm every day there is a Kids Club which is aimed at 4 to 11 year-olds. For the slightly older children between 7 and 11 years old snowboarding is available for those who would like to give it a try. The benefits of the Kids Club are many. Children are able to learn in a safe and supervised environment at a level which is suitable for their progress and older members of their party are able to enjoy the more challenging trails which would not otherwise be possible with young children to take care of who may not be advanced enough in their skiing to take part safely.
Crystal Mountain has two back country areas in addition to the main areas of the resort and they can be reached only by hiking. The back country areas form extreme terrain and therefore the ski patrol has special restrictions and rules in place. North Backcountry does have some trails which have been cut through the trees although it is predominantly covered in woodland which in places is closely packed.
Crystal Mountain is able to rely on the seasonal predictability of the snow cover which which lasts from the middle of November to the middle of April. With a wide variety of establishments offering meals, lodging and entertainment, the visitor is also able to enjoy saunas, hot tubs, showers and games rooms at East Peak Massage & Fitness. For a massage it is necessary to make a reservation. Those who enjoy burgers, Mexican food, pizza, pasta and salad should enjoy a visit to the Campbell Basin Lodge which was built in the summer of 2004.
The whole family will be able to enjoy a great skiing vacation in Washington State. Although the slopes are more suited to skiers of intermediate and advanced abilities, beginners can still enjoy themselves providing care is taken to choose a trail which is not beyond their capabilities.
The months of November to April bring several feet of fresh powder snow to Crystal Mountain, this being a reliable happening thanks to the cold Cascade storms common to this area. This factor alone makes a compelling reason to visit this first class Washington State ski area.
Mount Rainier looks down 7,000 feet to the summit of Crystal Mountain and from this vantage point Mount Rainier can be enjoyed in all its magnitude. From Crystal Mountain an expansive pasture of 2,300 acres of all manner of skiing makes for what is undeniably the largest area of skiing in Washington State.
Expert skiers are attracted to the area for its rugged terrain and deep snow; however, less advanced skiers should not be intimidated. Crystal Mountain, offers a wide variety of skiing for every level of ability. There are 53 runs, 30% suitable for advanced skiers, 57% for intermediates and 13% for the relatively inexperienced. The longest run is known as Northway and boasts a stretch of 2.5 miles (4km).
There is a lift capacity of over 20,000 passengers per hour with 2 high speed six-passenger lifts, 2 high speed quads, 2 triple chairs, 4 double chairs and a child's surface lift. This is challenging terrain and therefore there is less on offer for beginners as this area really caters for the more advanced skier. Despite this bias towards the more experienced skier, lessons are available and there is rental available for skis and other equipment.
Operating from 8am to 4pm every day there is a Kids Club which is aimed at 4 to 11 year-olds. For the slightly older children between 7 and 11 years old snowboarding is available for those who would like to give it a try. The benefits of the Kids Club are many. Children are able to learn in a safe and supervised environment at a level which is suitable for their progress and older members of their party are able to enjoy the more challenging trails which would not otherwise be possible with young children to take care of who may not be advanced enough in their skiing to take part safely.
Crystal Mountain has two back country areas in addition to the main areas of the resort and they can be reached only by hiking. The back country areas form extreme terrain and therefore the ski patrol has special restrictions and rules in place. North Backcountry does have some trails which have been cut through the trees although it is predominantly covered in woodland which in places is closely packed.
Crystal Mountain is able to rely on the seasonal predictability of the snow cover which which lasts from the middle of November to the middle of April. With a wide variety of establishments offering meals, lodging and entertainment, the visitor is also able to enjoy saunas, hot tubs, showers and games rooms at East Peak Massage & Fitness. For a massage it is necessary to make a reservation. Those who enjoy burgers, Mexican food, pizza, pasta and salad should enjoy a visit to the Campbell Basin Lodge which was built in the summer of 2004.
The whole family will be able to enjoy a great skiing vacation in Washington State. Although the slopes are more suited to skiers of intermediate and advanced abilities, beginners can still enjoy themselves providing care is taken to choose a trail which is not beyond their capabilities.
About the Author:
Kerry Devere enjoys skiing and snowboarding and after fresh powder carving her way down the mountain. Before you plan your next ski vacation, read more of her ski resort reviews.
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