Skiing In Washington State On Crystal Mountain

by Kerry Devere

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.

Crystal Mountain enjoys many inches of fresh powder snow between the months of November and April and this has been a particularly reliable feature of this ski area thanks to reliable cold storms which are a feature of this region. With such conditions a regular feature Crystal Mountain has enduring appeal.

Crystal Mountain provides stunning views of Mount Rainer which towers a further 7,000 feet into the sky above Crystal Mountain's summit. With over 2,300 acres of prime skiing real estate you will find all types of skiing and with such a large expanse Crystal Mountain boasts the largest ski area in Washington State.

Less advanced skiers could be forgiven for feeling some trepidation about a ski area that has 30% of its trails for advanced skiers and 57% for intermediates. Despite offering just 13% of runs for beginners and novices, Crystal Mountain does offer a generous variety of skiing for all levels and offers a longest run of 2..5 miles (4km) which is known as Northway.

The lift provision on Crystal Mountain is 4 double chairs, 2 high speed sixes, 2 triple chairs, 2 high speed quads and a surface lift is provided for children. The nature of the terrain is such that the ski area is more suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers, however beginners are catered for with lessons available and a full complement of rental equipment available for those who need it.

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.

The season runs from the middle of November to the middle of April, when the best snow fall is experienced. There are many places to choose for lodging, meals and evening entertainment. After a day of skiing, you should definitely head over to East Peak Massage & Fitness to take advantage of the hot tub, sauna, showers and even the games room. Massages are available with a reservation. In the summer of 2004, Crystal built the Campbell Basin Lodge, a Cascade-style lodge serving pasta, pizza, soups, teriyaki, burgers, salads, Mexican food and more.

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 is a great fan of ski trips and in particular thrashing the red runs. Before you plan your next ski safari, read more of her ski destination reviews.